Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Jamaican Sarsaparilla (Smilax regelii, sometimes referred to as Smilax ornata) has a long history of use in traditional Caribbean medicine, particularly in Jamaica, for a variety of health conditions, including those related to blood purification and improving circulation. Herbal practitioners have historically used sarsaparilla as a "blood tonic" or "blood cleanser," which in traditional medical systems is often associated with improving overall circulation and relieving symptoms attributed to "poor blood" or sluggish blood flow. This belief is rooted in the Doctrine of Signatures and the empirical experience of folk healers rather than systematic scientific investigation.

Despite its traditional use, there is limited scientific evidence to directly support the use of Jamaican Sarsaparilla for improving circulation. The root contains a variety of phytochemicals, including saponins and phytosterols, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and immune-modulatory effects in laboratory studies, but there is little research specifically linking sarsaparilla or its compounds to significant improvements in human circulation or cardiovascular function. Most available studies have focused on its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potential hormone-modulating activities. As such, its use for poor circulation relies primarily on traditional knowledge and anecdotal reports rather than clinical trials or robust scientific validation.

In summary, while Jamaican Sarsaparilla is traditionally used for circulation and blood health in Caribbean herbal medicine, scientific evidence for this application is limited, and its efficacy for this purpose is not well-established in modern research.

More about Jamaican Sarsaparilla
More about Circulation (poor)

Other ingredients used for Circulation (poor)

Other health conditions supported by Jamaican Sarsaparilla

Products containing Jamaican Sarsaparilla