Synopsis

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

Jamaican Sarsaparilla (Smilax regelii, also known as Smilax ornata) has a longstanding history of use in traditional Caribbean and Central American herbal medicine, including for the management of edema (fluid retention). The traditional rationale for its use is based primarily on its purported diuretic properties, meaning it is believed to increase urine output and thereby reduce fluid accumulation in tissues. Herbalists have included sarsaparilla in remedies for a variety of conditions characterized by swelling or water retention, such as edema and certain kidney or liver ailments.

However, the scientific evidence substantiating these uses is limited. While sarsaparilla does contain numerous phytochemicals, such as saponins and flavonoids, which might theoretically influence fluid balance, there is a lack of robust clinical studies directly demonstrating its effectiveness as a diuretic in humans or its ability to treat edema. Most evidence comes from traditional practices, animal studies, or in vitro research rather than well-controlled human trials.

In summary, the use of Jamaican Sarsaparilla for edema is grounded in traditional medicine rather than scientific validation. The available evidence supporting its diuretic or anti-edematous effects in humans is weak to moderate at best, meriting a low to moderate evidence rating, and further research is required to confirm its efficacy and safety for this purpose.

More about Jamaican Sarsaparilla
More about Edema

Other ingredients used for Edema

Other health conditions supported by Jamaican Sarsaparilla

Products containing Jamaican Sarsaparilla