Sarsaparilla (Smilax spp.) is a tropical plant native to Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Indigenous peoples used the root of sarsaparilla for its medicinal properties, particularly to treat skin conditions, joint pain, and as a general tonic.
In the 16th century, Spanish explorers brought sarsaparilla back to Europe, where it gained popularity as a treatment for syphilis and other infections. Sarsaparilla root contains saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects.
In the 19th century, it was a common ingredient in root beer and other soft drinks. Today, sarsaparilla is used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory, detoxifying, and hormone-balancing properties.
