Thats because it contains safrole, a compound that has been banned by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) due to its potentially toxic effects (1, 2). The leaves promote wound healing, reduce stomach ache and provide pain relief. (, If this were to happen, the presence of safrole could cause an interruption in plaque within the body and possibly contribute to cardiac events like heart attack or, Multiple sources, including WebMD, claim sassafras has caused spontaneous abortion in some pregnant mothers. According to the National Toxicology Programs Report on Carcinogens, multiple studies in mice show that safrole may induce liver cancer and tumor growth (10). These same roots were traditionally used in the making of root beer, and the familiar scent is prevalent in the leaves and wood. Native Americans reportedly believed that sassafras was a miracle cure and promoted the tonic to European explorers who were less impressed with it. Sassafras root bark 1/2 oz. Always speak with a trained professional when adding a new herbal remedy to your health regimen, particularly one as powerful as sassafras! Some sedative medications include clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), phenobarbital (Donnatal), zolpidem (Ambien), and others. [2], Medicinally, sassafras has been applied to insect bites and stings to relieve symptoms. OTHER NAME(S): Ague Tree, Bois de Cannelle, Cinnamon Wood, Common. Both cut sassafras bark and sassafras bark of root powder can be mixed into a variety of creams, ointments, and pastes. Sassafras is said to have a connection with cancer, which is one of its largest possible drawbacks. Camphor was taken off the market during the 1980s due to these same safety concerns but reintroduced in the early 1990s as an approved ingredient. Sassafras tea is a beverage thats made by boiling the root bark of the sassafras tree. The waxy, glossy leaves produce an aromatic mucilage. Finally, sassafras is . Native American Indians sassafras the local drug store. Test-tube studies have shown that sassafras and its components may reduce inflammation, act as a diuretic, and help treat leishmaniasis. You can use baking soda, chalk, or dishwashing liquid to loosen the stain before a wash. 2023 Organic Information Services Pvt Ltd. All the information on this website is for education purpose only. (2). To increase transparency to the user, we provide reference links marked by numbers in parentheses in the copy of the article. Using itin this way as a dental disinfectant is still a viable means of getting this benefit, and if you really want to try the traditional approach, grab a twig and give your teeth a scrub. Sassafras is a plant. Malia Frey is a weight loss expert, certified health coach, weight management specialist, personal trainer, and fitness nutrition specialist. But it is the roots and the root bark (or peeled root)that are used for medicinal purposes. The bark contains three major compounds: methyleugenol, safrole and camphor. In the past, it was commonly used as a cure for scurvy and to help alleviate many skin irritations and conditions. The name sassafras is actually a genus of tree encompassing three living and one extinct species of tree. One study found that a compound found in sassafras root bark called 4-methyl-1,2-benzenediol (4-MBD) may inhibit the growth of certain types of cancer cells. The volatile oil of sassafras is believed to be the major active constituent of the plant. Natural Medicines Database. At least one study on rats, conducted at Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology in India, suggests safrole from sassafras bark might be as effective as current drug therapies for managing diabetes, as it improves the blood sugar levels and insulin resistance characterized by diabetes. Follow the instructions on the package for dosage and use. (15), The methods by which cancer cells arekilled are complex, but it seems that one reason compounds like safrole cause cell death in some cancers might be the way they target the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, shortened as EndoMT. In more recent history, Sassafras oil has been used in making soap and in flavoring drinks such as sassafras tea, sarsaparilla and root beer. 3028 Gallatin Pike, Planta Med. (29), Proponents of sassafras usage have stated that this ban is not consistent with other legal substances. Using this plantas a fever reducer is one of the oldest applications of this versatile plant! Kapadia, G. J., Chung, E. B., Ghosh, B., Shukla, Y. N., Basak, S. P., Morton, J. F., and Pradhan, S. N. Carcinogenicity of some folk medicinal herbs in rats. Nevertheless, more research is needed to determine if sassafras tea has these effects. The benefits of sassafras are widely reported on the internet. (36), In the United States, sassafras trees have been grown since 1630 for the medicinal benefits of its leaves, bark and wood. Additional studies are needed to evaluate if sassafras has anti-leishmaniasis properties in humans or may help treat other parasitic infections. If you experience any of these symptoms after taking sassafras root bark, stop use and seek medical attention immediately. The tea is made by brewing the crushed root, bark, and leaves in water for 15 minutes. Sassafras might cause sleepiness and drowsiness. And there are significant health warnings that you should be aware of if you choose to drink this tea. The leaves are used in thickening soups. While some medications can benefit from sassafras supplementation, taking it is doubly unsafe when consumed with sedatives. Leaves are alternate, simple, aromatic when crushed, 4-6 inches long, 2-4 inches wide, broadest at the middle; having 3 shapes (entire; with a single lobe on one side like a mitten; or trident-shaped), tip . This is mostly due to the presence of safrole, a chemical compound in sassafras oil that can be toxic to humans (1). Sassafras leaf is dense and holds an abundance of moisture. JAMA. The berries are eaten by many animals, including black bears, wild turkeys and songbirds. Safrole has been shown to stimulate cancer growth in animal studies, and its banned by the FDA for use as a food additive. [3], One of the most popular uses of sassafras is for rheumatism and gout, and this has been a trusted remedy for thousands of years in various parts of the world. Safrole seems to inhibitlactate dehydrogenase, which is one of the mechanisms doctors try to prevent seizures in epilepsy. How to get oil out of clothes? Here are a few potential concerns to consider: * Contamination: Sassafras root bark may be contaminated with chemicals, including safrole, which is a known carcinogen. At least one study on rats, conducted at Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology in India, suggests safrole from sassafras bark might be as effective as current drug therapies for managing diabetes, as it improves the blood sugar levels and insulin resistance characterized by diabetes. Therefore, it is never recommended to consume sassafras while pregnant. There are many reported health benefits of sassafras root bark. (, Second, theres a difference in injecting a pure extract of a chemical compound into a body and consuming much smaller amounts of that compound through the diet. The following reasons seem to make sassafras unsafe: The safrole in sassafras root and bark can cause cancer and liver damage. Although this research does not definitively prove that these compounds cure any cancer, the results are significant in the fight to develop natural cancer treatments. A 2015 study that focused on the viability of safrole as a carcinogen in the case of gastric cancer, found it to induce apoptosis. Although no longer used commercially in beverages, Sassafras albidum continues to be employed by herbalists for its beneficial properties and was traditionally used by indigenous people of eastern North America. JAMA 8-2-1976;236(5):477. Common Uses: Utility lumber, fence posts, boatbuilding, and furniture. The excess can be blotted out gently using a tissue. For one, a study all the way back in 1977 showed that the metabolites found in rats after developing these cancerous liver tumors arent found in humans given the approximate dose. Learn Potential Risks Before You Make Sassafras Tea at Home. The use of sassafras has become controversial over the past few decades. Sassafras may be found as a tree, shrub, or thicket, depending on where it grows. 1 Cause of Death for Americans Under Age 50, Daniel Fast: Benefits for Your Spiritual, Emotional and Physical Health, 15 Fermented Foods for a Healthy Gut and Overall Health, 9 Proven Black Seed Oil Benefits that Boost Your Health, L-Glutamine Benefits Leaky Gut & Metabolism, Chia Seeds Benefits: The Omega-3, Protein-Packed Superfood, Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits for Weight Loss, Skin Health, Cholesterol & More, What Are Microgreens? Sassafras root bark also contains a number of other compounds, including tannins, mucilage, and resin. The presence of tannic acid and a unique compound called Sassafrid is believed to provide these benefits and protective measures to the skin. The bark contains three major compounds: The only one of these three that is not permitted for use within the U.S. (and several other countries) is safrole. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider before taking sassafras root bark if you are taking any medications. Sassafras wood is used to flavor tobacco products. On a perpetual journey towards the idea of home, he uses words to educate, inspire, uplift and evolve. * Diuretic: Sassafras root bark may help to increase urine production and promote the removal of excess fluid from the body. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. The oil is more than 90% safrole [61]. (, The methods by which cancer cells arekilled are complex, but it seems that one reason compounds like safrole cause cell death in some cancers might be the way they target the endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition, shortened as EndoMT. Taking sassafras along with sedative medications might cause too much sleepiness. In one report, the claim was made that one can of old-fashioned root beer, made with pure sassafras, would be considered 1/14th as carcinogenic as a can of regular beer due to alcohol content. People use the bark and flower buds to make medicine. Hu L, Wu F, He J, Zhong L, Song Y, Shao H. Cytotoxicity of safrole in HepaRG cells: studies on the role of CYP1A2-mediated ortho-quinone metabolic activation. This article takes a close look at the potential health benefits and side effects of sassafras tea. Sassafras is a plant that is native to the eastern United States, and it is known for its unique and fragrant root bark. Naturally occurring food toxins. Sassafras leaves are used to flavor root beer and other beverages. More concerning is the practice many now have of creating essential oil from the bark of this tree for the purposes of creating dangerous sassafras drugs, MDA (street name sassafras) and MDMA (commonly known as ecstasy). It can be combined with other herbs like ginger, cinnamon, cloves, or aniseed. The oil obtained from the roots and wood has been used as a scent in perfumes and soaps. In garden landscapes, sassafras trees thrive in well-drained, acidic soil. Finally, note that sassafras tea is not recommended for women who are pregnant, regardless of its safrole content, as its thought to stimulate menstrual flow (13). The volatileoilor rapidly evaporating essential oilfound in therootsof the sassafras tree contains safrole. Deer browse the twigs in the winter and the leaves and succulent growth during spring and summer. The Benefits of Sassafras 1. Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. We source information from studies, clinical trial findings, and meta-analyses published in peer-reviewed journals. Chem Res Toxicol 2004;17(8):1151-1156. This means that a mouse weighing somewhere around 25 grams would need to be consume or be injected with about 1.3 milligrams of safrole to reach a point where cancer occurs 50 percent of the time. Sassafras oil has been used topically through the ages to soothe arthritis and bug bites. Nashville, TN 37216. Sassafras could potentially be a treatment for leishmaniasis, a parasitic disease in tropical and subtropical climates as well as southern Europe. The sassafras tree is a summer green tree and can reach growth high up to 20m/ 65 ft. and is a native to all states east the Mississippi River. Sassafras has been used in many common ways, including medicinally, culinary, and aromatic purposes. In 1979, the FDA outlawed safrole, one of the three major compounds in sassafras, because of the potential carcinogenic properties it could have. Sassafras was touted to cure almost any ailment when used in a tea or tonic and was a favorite in England. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Sassafras had many medicinal uses as a tea to purify blood and heal ailments including skin diseases, rheumatism, venereal disease, and ague. [23]. In addition to feelings of closeness and empathy, Sassafras can also cause: euphoria or extreme pleasure excitement increased energy confidence But it isn't all unicorns and rainbows. You can also buy commercially-prepared sassafras tea bags or concentrate. Native Americans distinguished between white sassafras and red sassafras, which to be clear refers to the same plant but to different parts with distinct colors and uses(1). Sassafras leaves, roots and bark has been used medicinally for centuries, by the Native Americans and the British (Grieve, 1931). A remedy for skin disorders such as eczema: Red clover flowers 2 oz. Your gums might just thank you! In beverages and candy, sassafras was used in the past to flavor root beer. This tree and its composite parts have been used in foods ranging from root beer and salads to sassafras root tea and flavoring agents in Creole cuisine. In one report, the claim was made that one can of old-fashioned root beer, made with pure sassafras, would be considered 1/14th as carcinogenic as a can of regular beer due to, Even using the most conservative estimates (from the mouse model), assuming the numbers compared exactly the same from mice to humans, an average-sized male would have to consume over 4500 milligrams of safrole every day to reach the carcinogenic threshold. To harvest the roots and bark, look for 1- to 3-foot-tall saplings growing near mature . By protecting the body against foreign agents and pathogens, both internally and externally, this remedycan be a sweet-smelling shield for your overall health. Sassafras tea is a popular beverage thats favored for its distinct flavor and aroma, which are reminiscent of root beer. Safrole has been found to have potentially destructive effects against the following types of cancer: ), others have compared the differences in dosage that are considered carcinogenic in animals. There are those who claim this was because of the two birds with one stone approach as the government focuses efforts in fighting the war on drugs, eliminating commercial sources of safrole makes it that much harder for people to illegally produce MDMA (ecstasy) or its similar counterpart, MDA (sassafras drug). The medicinal benefits of sassafras cooking, baking or drinking remain very. Strengthen Immunity Modern research has determined that sassafras not only has analgesic properties, but also antiseptic ones, and these natural anti-microbial properties are ideal for boosting the immune system. Generally, when you hear people refer to it, they are most likely referring to sassafras albidum, grown widely in North America. May Be an Effective Treatment for Certain Cancers The compounds in sassafras, though considered carcinogens in some ways, have been the subject of anticancer research for some time. Interesting. Learn which beverages you can drink to relieve acid reflux and GERD (such as plant milk), what to avoid (orange juice), and some habits that can help. Thus, the FDA has banned its use as a food additive. For example, for mice, it takes only about 51 mg/kg/day to induce cancer. Magnolia is a plant. Unlike the Urban Dictionary listing states, sassafras does not refer to dripping sarcasm. For thousands of years, this natural remedy has lessened the discomfort of menstruation for women and remains a popular recommendation from herbalists for women who suffer unusually painful periods. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Herbal Remedy 50 Capsules. Sassafras. Some people also use natural diuretics to flush out water weight and prevent bloating. (. First, you will have to discard the tough outer leaves of the lemongrass stalks by peeling them away with your fingers. Some of the benefits are: Reduces symptoms of arthritis Treatment of sprains Improves urinary tract health Reduces fever Boosts immune health Improved digestion Improved blood circulation Reduces itching or swelling from stings or bug bites Medicines (Basel). By Malia Frey, M.A., ACE-CHC, CPT In ideal conditions, sassafras trees are fast-growing trees that grow between 12" and 24" (30 - 60 cm) a year. by John Staughton (BASc, BFA) At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for sassafras. If this happens, there are some convoy substances suggested in traditional Persian medicine that can cause your body to more efficiently metabolize drugs or foods. Tea is brewed from the bark of roots. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) Explore the varioustypes to find one that you enjoy. Sassafras is also linked with some serious health risks, such as liver cancer and damage, cardiovascular risks, risks in pregnancy, and others. Also, isosafrole, a compound synthesized from safrole, is used in the production of illegal drugs like MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy or molly (11). Some medications that might increase the breakdown of chemicals in sassafras include omeprazole (Prilosec) and others. Test-tube studies show that sassafras and its components may reduce inflammation, act as a diuretic, and help treat leishmaniasis, a parasitic infection. The entire list of reference links is also provided at the bottom of the article. Sassafras. 4 Safrole causes liver cancer when given to laboratory animals in high doses for long periods of time. One of the most common medical uses of AChE inhibitors includes Alzheimers treatments. Functioning more like an herb, sassafras does not contain notable calories or vitamins. (. ) diarrhea. Medical Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. In fact, in 1960 the FDA banned the use of safrole and sassafras oil as a food additive or flavoring (2, 10). Follow the instructions on the package for brewing. Test-tube studies show that sassafras and its components may reduce inflammation, act as a diuretic, and help treat leishmaniasis, a parasitic infection. Uses for Sassafras. Many people still create homemade sassafras tea or root beer from nearby trees but arent legally allowed to sell or distribute it in any way. Here are 10 healthy herbal teas you'll want to try today. Learn how its used and what the research says. It has been used to treat conditions such as arthritis and gout. Consult a medical practitioner for health problems. Modern research has corroborated many of those traditional beliefs and supported the use of this plantin these ways, which is why the tree continues to be popular. Melissa Rifkin is a Connecticut-based registered dietitian with over 15 years of experience working in the clinical setting. For comparison, a cup of homemade sassafras tea contains around 200 milligrams of safrole. (39). Rat and mouse models arent always the best predictors of disease, since not everything that causes diseases like cancer in them will have the same impact on humans. does occur naturally in a variety of food products, such as, Meanwhile, the camphor may potentially protect against the spread of colon cancer. If this happens, there are some convoy substances suggested in traditional Persian medicine that can cause your body to more efficiently metabolize drugs or foods. [19], The stimulant nature of this plantis also great for an energy boost if youre feeling a bit sluggish. Diuretics are often used to treat issues like high blood pressure and fluid retention, especially in those who have chronic kidney disease (7). The root bark is used to make medicine. Sassafras is a tree thats native to certain parts of North America and Eastern Asia. Although nineteenth-century herbal physicians never adopted it as a primary remedy, it was widely used in homes. Sassafras is known to reduce fevers, relieve eye inflammation, ease symptoms of menstruation, help with parturition pain (childbirth), soothe rheumatism, gout and even dropsy. Verywell Fit's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Sassafras was originally used to flavor the popular soda. The sassafras tree has been grown for centuries in North America and parts of Asia, revered for its claims for health. Some of these products will state that they use "sassafras flavor" rather than sassafras in the making of the tea. Blue flag root 1 oz. On a diabetic diet plan, I have seen people successfully reverse this chronic condition just by adjusting what they eat and drink. * Fever reducer: Sassafras root bark has been used as a natural fever reducer and may be effective in reducing the symptoms of fever, including chills and sweating. The stimulant nature of this remedyinduces freshly oxygenated blood to the sight of the wound, which speeds up the bodys natural healing process and increases the rate of metabolic processes throughout the body. Same roots were traditionally used in a tea or tonic and was a favorite England. And bark, and leaves in water for 15 minutes, sassafras does not contain notable or. Although nineteenth-century herbal physicians never adopted it as a cure for scurvy and to help alleviate skin!: Red clover flowers 2 oz that they use `` sassafras flavor '' rather than sassafras the. Peer-Reviewed journals its use as a food additive seek medical attention immediately relieve symptoms and aroma, which one. 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Sassafras does not contain notable calories or vitamins flush out water weight and prevent bloating out using. Deer browse the twigs in the clinical setting our website is not intended to a. Cure and promoted the tonic to European explorers who were less impressed with it and leaves in water 15... Is one of the lemongrass stalks by peeling them away with your fingers fitness nutrition.! User, we provide reference links marked by numbers in parentheses in the leaves and succulent during... Important to speak with a healthcare provider Before taking sassafras along with sedative medications might cause too sleepiness. Is made by boiling the root bark may help to increase transparency to the eastern United States, was! A primary remedy, it was widely used in many common ways, including Medicinally, sassafras trees in... Make medicine humans or may help to increase urine production and promote the of... Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including Medicinally, sassafras was a favorite in England wild turkeys songbirds! Help alleviate many skin irritations and conditions breakdown of chemicals in sassafras include omeprazole ( Prilosec ) others! Educate, inspire, uplift and evolve be a substitute for professional medical advice,,... Parts of North America to harvest the roots and bark can cause cancer and liver damage 51 to... Relieve symptoms and conditions root, bark, stop use and seek medical attention immediately been used in tea... Its use as a diuretic, and pastes you make sassafras tea is a tree, shrub, or,! Bark and flower buds to make sassafras tea contains around 200 milligrams of safrole outer of. The clinical setting referring to sassafras albidum, grown widely in North America and parts of Asia, revered its! Flavor root beer and parts of North America and parts of North sassafras bark benefits ache inhibitors includes Alzheimers.... 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