Evidence supporting the use of: Sarsaparilla
For the body system: Lymphatics

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Synopsis

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

Sarsaparilla (Smilax spp.) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, especially in Central and South America, as well as in traditional European herbalism. It was employed for its purported "blood-purifying" effects, which, in historical herbalism, often overlapped with claims of supporting the lymphatic system—since the lymphatic system is involved in immune function and waste removal. Herbal texts from the 19th and early 20th centuries often referenced sarsaparilla as a remedy for "rheumatic" conditions and skin diseases, both of which were thought to be related to impaired lymphatic function or toxin buildup.

However, there is a lack of modern scientific studies directly investigating sarsaparilla’s effect on the lymphatic system. While sarsaparilla contains saponins, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals with anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, these effects have not been specifically demonstrated to enhance or support lymphatic function in clinical research. Thus, the use of sarsaparilla for lymphatic support is based more on traditional use and historical texts than on robust scientific evidence. As such, the evidence rating for this use is low, reflecting its roots in tradition rather than validated, targeted research.

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