Synopsis

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

Jamaican Sarsaparilla (Smilax regelii and related species) has a long history of use in traditional Caribbean and Central American herbal medicine. It has been used as a blood purifier and for treating skin conditions, which sometimes included infections thought to be caused by "bad blood," such as boils and abscesses—conditions that can be caused by Staphylococcus aureus (Staph). Historical records and ethnobotanical surveys document its use for skin eruptions and infections, but these uses are primarily rooted in folk practices rather than targeted antibacterial strategies.

Scientific evidence for direct activity of Jamaican Sarsaparilla against Staph infections is limited. Some in vitro studies on related Smilax species show mild antibacterial effects, but data specific to Smilax regelii or Jamaican Sarsaparilla against S. aureus is sparse and generally not robust. There are no high-quality clinical trials or comprehensive pharmacological studies validating its efficacy for treating staph infections. Thus, while it is used traditionally for related symptoms, scientific validation is lacking, and the evidence supporting its use is weak, meriting a rating of 2 out of 5.

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