Sassafras

Species Name:  sassafras officinale.

Also known as: Sassafras Varifolium, Laurus Sassafras, Sassafrax and Sassafras Radix.

Have you ever heard of Sassafras? This herb could possibly be the answer you are looking for if you suffer from skin conditions, rheumatism and other medical conditions. Herbalists have been suggesting this herb for many years for many common conditions.

What is Sassafras?: Sassafras is a plant that grows from 20 to 40 feet high with many slender branches and smooth orange brown, soft and brittle bark. It was discovered and named back in the 16th Century by a Spanish botanist. The inner root bark root is harvested and used in herbal medicine. The herb contains alkaloids, volatile oils (safrole as major component) and other constituents such as gum, mucilage, resin, starch and wax. Sassafras has a pleasant aroma and a sweet taste so it was often used in toothpaste, mouthwash and even for skin conditions.

Sassafras has been used for medicine, for magic and even for cleaning. There have been many uses for it over time and several medicinal uses such as skin diseases including acne, eczema, and psoriasis; arthritis and rheumatism, gout, ulcers, colds, flu and even post-partum pain.

Home Remedies using Sassafras:

Benefits of Sassafras:

There are different benefits to this herb. It was used both in the past and is still used today for different conditions. Historically Sassafras was mainly used for skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis, often in combination with other herbs such as sarsaparilla, yellow dock and nettle. Traditional herbalists recommended the tincture for internal use and the oil for external use.

It was often used in the early treatment of colds and as a blood purifier. It has a warming, healing effect and is good as a diuretic and circulatory stimulant. It can also be used as a mouthwash or tooth cleaner but should not be swallowed. In history, it has also been added to healing sachets or placed in wallets to attract money to the wearer. This is one herb with a very interesting history.

Uses of Sassafras:

• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Other skin conditions
• Early treatment of colds
• Tincture for internal use
• Oil for external use

Side Effects of Sassafras:

The Sassafras herb is linked with certain cancers and consequently has been banned for use as flavors and food additives by the US Federal Drug Administration.