There are few reported side effects of sarsaparilla, but it may not be safe for everyone.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
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Purported Benefits of Sarsaparilla
The sarsaparilla root has been used medicinally for centuries.
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Many parts of the sarsaparilla plant are used as flavorings in foods and beverages.
Researchers have identified several mechanisms they believe are at work in the anti-cancer processes of sarsaparilla.
However, these findings lack sufficient evidence and need further investigation in human trials.
Verywell / Anastasia Tretiak
Antioxidant Effects and Skin Health
Sarsaparillas antioxidant properties may also make it beneficial to your skin.
Additionally, one study suggested thatastilbin, aflavonoidin sarsaparilla, shows promise as a treatment forpsoriasis.
Oxidative stress, associated with free radicals and nitric oxide, can harm the kidneys.
As an antioxidant, astilbin appears to suppress oxidative stress and, thereby, offers some kidney protection.
These findings may be used to support claims of sarsaparilla’s traditional detoxifying effect.
Therefore, it is important to be careful with products claiming to have detoxifying effects.
Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before using any such supplements.
And sarsaparilla hasnt been studied for all these conditions.
Some of these uses have limited support from preliminary studies, but evidence is insufficient.
Other claims have been disproven.
What Are the Side Effects of Sarsaparilla?
Sarsaparilla is generally considered a safe supplement with few side effects.
As with all supplements, an allergic reaction is possible.
Common Side Effects
There are few known side effects of sarsaparilla.
The most common side effect is stomach irritation.
Severe Side Effects
No severe side effects of sarsaparilla have been documented.
One study noted that sarsaparilla did not show toxicity at the cellular level.
However, as with all supplements, there is a risk of allergic reactions.
Anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, is possible.
Anaphylaxis can be life-threatening.
It is not known how sarsaparilla will affect all health conditions.
There is no data on sarsaparillas safety for pregnant or breastfeeding people.
These populations should likely avoid using it.
Dosage: How Much Sarsaparilla Should I Take?
When taking a capsule, better to take one to four grams of dried root.
These doses are only suggestions.
Always discuss the dosage amount with your healthcare provider.
What Happens if I Take Too Much Sarsaparilla?
Sarsaparilla has no known upper limit.
The lack of research and clinical data gives no evidence of what’s considered too much.
When considering using sarsaparilla, it is best to discuss dosage with your healthcare provider.
Interactions
Sarsaparilla may interact with several drugs.
Digoxinis a drug that helps the heart.
Whether sarsaparilla would have the same drug interactions in humans is unknown.
They can be found on the internet and in various grocery stores.
Instead, most of them now contain artificial flavors.
That means drinking sarsaparilla soda will not give you the same benefits that consuming the root might.
Sarsaparilla Supplements
Sarsaparilla supplements come in capsule, tablet, tincture, and powder forms.
These supplements are available over-the-counter (OTC) without a prescription.
Use caution when purchasing supplements, especially online, as they are not regulated.
Summary
Clinical studies have not verified the many traditional medicinal uses of sarsaparilla.
It is important to discuss taking sarsaparilla with your healthcare provider.
There is little information on dosing, precautions, and interactions.
For this reason, it is not recommended for use by pregnant or breastfeeding people.
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