Smilax (Smilax officinalis / Smilax regelii)
Synopsis of smilax
Smilax is a genus of climbing plants commonly known as sarsaparilla, with several species used medicinally—most notably Smilax ornata (Jamaican sarsaparilla), Smilax glabra (Chinese sarsaparilla), and Smilax regelii (Honduran or Mexican sarsaparilla). The roots of these plants are rich in steroidal saponins, flavonoids, phytosterols, and volatile oils, which contribute to their traditional use as blood purifiers, anti-inflammatories, and hormonal balancers.
Smilax is most widely known for its traditional use in supporting detoxification, skin health, joint function, and endocrine balance. Its saponin content is believed to bind to endotoxins in the gut and bloodstream, promoting their elimination and reducing systemic inflammation. Smilax has also been used for conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, gout, rheumatism, syphilis, and low libido, and is sometimes included in modern herbal protocols for chronic skin or inflammatory conditions.
Some herbalists consider smilax a tonic for the liver and lymphatic system, and it is also used in men’s health blends due to its mild androgenic activity. Though not a true adaptogen, it is sometimes added to formulas for stress, fatigue, and hormone support.
Historical Use:
Smilax has a long and diverse ethnobotanical history across Central and South America, the Caribbean, China, and India. Indigenous peoples of the Amazon and Central America used sarsaparilla root decoctions for fevers, rheumatism, skin diseases, and to enhance virility. These uses gained the attention of European explorers, and by the 16th century, smilax root became a popular import into Europe, where it was used in the treatment of syphilis and other venereal diseases.
In the 19th century, sarsaparilla became a key ingredient in blood-purifying tonics and was widely promoted in patent medicines across the United States and Europe. It was also a common ingredient in traditional root beers—not just for flavor, but for its perceived health benefits. Smilax was listed in multiple pharmacopoeias and dispensatories, particularly for its depurative (detoxifying) and anti-rheumatic qualities.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Smilax glabra (Tu Fu Ling) is used to clear heat and dampness, and is frequently prescribed for skin eruptions, joint pain, syphilitic conditions, and mercury toxicity. It is also used to treat pelvic inflammation and support urinary health.
Smilax is used for these health conditions
Arthritis (Traditional)
Blood Poisoning (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Gonorrhea (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Kidney Stones (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Menopause (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Rheumatoid Arthritis (Traditional)
Skin (infections) (Traditional)
Staph Infections (Traditional)
Urinary Tract Infections (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
smilax is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Male Reproductive System (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
Products containing smilax
Nature's Sunshine Joint Health (Ayurvedic)
Nature's Sunshine Skin Detox (Ayurvedic)
