Top 15 Smilax Glabra Benefits (Sarsaparilla), Uses And Potential Side Effects

Smilax glabra, commonly known as the sarsaparilla plant, is a medicinal herb that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments.

Its known in some cultures as the king of herbs due to its long history of use in traditional medicine. If you were to think of Smilax glabra as an old and wise wizard, it would be able tell stories about its many uses and potential benefits – like a modern-day Merlin!

In this article we will explore the top 15 Smilax glabra benefits its uses and its potential side effects. We will also look at how it can be used safely and effectively to improve your health.

So join us on this journey into the world of Smilax glabra one that could offer you untold rewards!

What is Smilax Glabra?

Common Name(s): Cat BrierChinarootChina RootChin-lao-shuGreenbrierJackson BrierKuang-yen-pa-hsiehSarsaparillaShan Ku’ei-laiShiny Leaf SmilaxTi-hu-lingTufulingTu Fu-Ling

You may be wondering what Smilax Glabra is – it’s a plant with many potential health benefits, as well as some possible side effects. It’s also known as catbrier or sarsaparilla and belongs to the Smilacaceae family.

The plant is native to India and China and has long, woody stems that can reach up to 8 feet in length.

Its leaves are oval-shaped with jagged edges and have a leathery texture. Its flowers are greenish-yellow and produce bright red berries that contain a single seed each.

Smilax Glabra has been used for centuries in traditional Indian and Chinese medicine due to its medicinal properties.

Studies suggest that it may help improve digestion, reduce pain associated with arthritis or other joint problems, ease nausea symptoms caused by chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatments, reduce fatigue levels, improve immune system function, lower cholesterol levels as well as blood sugar levels in diabetics patients.

Additionally, this plant may help increase energy levels and enhance mental clarity and focus.

However, there are some side effects associated with using it, including stomach upset when taken on an empty stomach, or allergies such as skin rashes when applied topically on the skin or inhaling the fumes from burning dried plants parts like roots or leaves for inhalation therapy purposes.

History of Use in Traditional Medicine

Smilax glabra’s therapeutic properties have been recognized and documented for centuries, dating back to ancient times in China.

For centuries, people have used Smilax glabra in traditional medicine. This plant has a long history of use by various cultures – from Ancient Chinese to Native Americans.

The earliest known mention of SGB can be found in the Ben Cao Jing Ji Zhu, written by Tao Hongjing during the Southern and Northern Dynasties in the 5th and 6th centuries AD. [1]

As time went on, the knowledge surrounding SGB’s benefits expanded.

In the Tang Dynasty, the Ben Cao Shi Yi mentioned that SGB could be used as a food, indicating its potential for nourishment and health promotion.

Su Song’s Ben Cao Tu Jing, written during the Song Dynasty, provided a detailed record of SGB’s properties, describing it as sweet, calm in nature, non-toxic, and efficacious.

The root and leaves of the plant are typically used for medicinal purposes, with the roots being ground into a powder or turned into a syrup.

During the Ming Dynasty, renowned herbalist Li Shizhen documented SGB’s ability to treat syphilitic skin lesions in his seminal work, the Ben Cao Gang Mu.

This recognition further solidified SGB’s importance in traditional medicine. The Dian Nan Ben Cao, another herbal directory from the Ming Dynasty, emphasized SGB’s efficacy in treating syphilis and considered it the best medicine for this purpose.

Smilax glabra has also been used to improve digestive issues such as bloating, gas, constipation, and diarrhea. Additionally, it may be useful for treating respiratory illnesses like asthma and bronchitis.

In the Qing Dynasty, Wang Ang’s Ben Cao Bei Yao provided additional insights into SGB’s effects, including its anti-infective properties, relief of rheumatism, diuretic effects, and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders, muscles, and bones.

These diverse applications highlight the versatility and potency of SGB in traditional medicine.

Even in the modern era, SGB continues to hold its place in medicinal practices. The 2020 edition of the Chinese Pharmacopoeia recognizes SGB as the dried rhizome of Smilax glabra, specifically highlighting its use in treating syphilis, turbidity, carbuncles, scrofula, and scabies.

The history of Smilax glabra’s use in traditional medicine demonstrates the enduring belief in its therapeutic properties.

From ancient Chinese texts to modern pharmacopoeias, SGB has remained a valued botanical remedy, offering hope and relief for various ailments throughout the ages.

Smilax Glabra Benefits Based on Scientific-Evidence

The healing properties of Smilax glabra have been studied for centuries, offering a range of evidence-based health benefits that can soothe inflammation and improve heart health.

Scientific research has demonstrated that this plant is a true herbal powerhouse. Below I am going to attempt shedding light on the health benefits of Smilax Glabra based on research.

1. Fights Cancer

Smilax glabra has shown potential in combating prostate cancer.

More specifically, researchers studied a safe extract from this plant called water extract of Smilax glabra rhizome (WESGR). They discovered that WESGR can make it harder for cancer cells to stick to collagen, which is a protein in the body. It also slows down the movement of these cells.

They found that a molecule called β1 integrin is affected by WESGR, which leads to less activation of a protein called focal adherent kinase.

They also identified a specific component called 5-O-caffeoylquinic acid in WESGR that is responsible for its anticancer effects.

This research suggests that WESGR could be used as a treatment to slow down the growth of prostate cancer by interfering with cell movement and adhesion to collagen.

In another study, scientists have discovered that sarsaparilla, can stop the growth of cancer cells.

They found that a special part of sarsaparilla called the water-soluble extract (SW) can activate a signaling pathway in the cancer cells that makes them stop growing.

They also found that SW can make certain proteins in the cells become active, which helps in stopping the cancer cells from growing.

Finally, scientists used mice with breast cancer and treated them with a substance from SGR called SGR ethyl acetate (SGR-EA).

They found that SGR-EA reduced tumor growth and stopped the cancer from spreading to the lungs. It did this by changing special immune cells called macrophages to a type that can kill cancer cells. SGR-EA also increased the number of other immune cells that can fight cancer.

In lab tests, SGR-EA directly affected the signaling pathway related to tumor growth. Overall, SGR-EA has potential as an anti-tumor treatment by activating the immune system.

2. Can Help With Weight Loss

Scientists studied a compound called astilbin, which is found in Smilax glabra, to see if it can help with weight problems and related diseases.

They used mice that were fed a high-fat diet, similar to junk food, and gave some of them astilbin. They found that astilbin helped the mice lose weight, improved their insulin resistance, and reduced inflammation.

It also made their gut bacteria healthier, improved their digestion of carbohydrates and fats, and protected their intestines.

Astilbin also helped the mice’s livers by reducing fat buildup and improving energy production. Overall, astilbin could be a potential treatment for weight-related health issues in people.

3. May Treat Heart Failure

Scientists wanted to understand how a Smilax glabra can help treat heart failure. They used computer analysis to predict how Smilax glabra works in the body.

They found that it can help cells grow, reduce harmful substances, and protect the heart. In lab tests, Smilax glabra improved cell health, reduced damage to cell structures, and protected the heart’s energy production.

It did this by activating a pathway called p38 MAPK. They also discovered a specific compound called Istidina in SGR that could be helpful for heart failure.

Overall, SGR has potential as a treatment for heart failure by protecting cells and activating important pathways.

4. Enhancing Immune System Function

One way Smilax glabra may help is by enhancing immune system function. Studies indicate that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds in smilax glabra can stimulate the body’s natural defense mechanisms against invading pathogens.

Furthermore, smilax glabra has been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress throughout the body, which helps protect against disease-causing agents.

Smilax glabra also appears to have a positive effect on some aspects of immunity associated with aging. Research indicates that supplementation with smilax glabra can improve T cell activity and boost levels of cytokines associated with immunity, both important for maintaining good health as we age.

Additionally, studies suggest that regular use of smilax glabra extract may help reduce symptoms related to allergies and hay fever, indicating its potential benefits for improving overall immune response.

Finally, smilax glabra is known to be rich in polyphenols and other antioxidants which can help protect against harmful free radicals that damage healthy cells and contribute to chronic diseases such as cancer or heart disease.

5. Anti-inflammatory Properties

You can experience the anti-inflammatory benefits of Smilax glabra for yourself – it’s been shown to reduce inflammation throughout the body.

In a study published in 2018, mice were given extracts from S. glabra and then exposed to an inflammatory agent. The results showed that the extract was able to significantly reduce inflammation within their bodies.

Additionally, researchers found that S. glabra had an inhibitory effect on several other inflammatory molecules, including nitric oxide and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α). This suggests that S. glabra may be useful for treating conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

S. glabra also has antioxidant properties which can help protect the body from free radicals which can damage cells and lead to chronic diseases such as cancer or heart disease. Studies have shown that extracts of S. glabra are able to scavenge free radicals and prevent oxidative damage caused by them in both animal and human cells.

Furthermore, researchers believe that the antioxidants present in S. glabra may help improve overall health by reducing inflammation and fighting off illnesses caused by bacteria or viruses.

6. Antioxidant Benefits

Now that you’re aware of the anti-inflammatory properties of Smilax glabra, let’s turn our attention to its antioxidant benefits.

Antioxidants are substances that can help neutralize free radicals in your body and protect against oxidative stress. These potent compounds can scavenge harmful molecules and provide numerous health benefits. Here’s a look at some of the most noteworthy ones:

1. Detoxification: Smilax glabra contains several powerful antioxidants such as flavonoids, phenolics, and terpenes which can help detoxify your body by neutralizing toxins like heavy metals and chemical pollutants that can accumulate over time.
2. Improved Immune Function: The antioxidants in Smilax glabra have been shown to improve immune function by stimulating the production of white blood cells which fight off viral infections and other diseases.
3. Reduced Risk of Chronic Disease: By reducing inflammation and neutralizing free radicals, Smilax glabra may reduce your risk of developing chronic illnesses like cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and Alzheimers disease.

In addition to these impressive antioxidant benefits, research suggests that regular consumption of Smilax glabra may also promote healthy aging by protecting cells from oxidative damage caused by environmental factors such as air pollution or ultraviolet radiation from the sun.

7. Promoting Digestive Health

Discover the digestive health benefits of Smilax glabra and experience the stomach-soothing power of this potent plant! This medicinal plant is known for its ability to reduce inflammation in the digestive system, helping to relieve symptoms such as bloating, cramping and diarrhea.

Research has found that it can help improve digestion by increasing the production of enzymes in the stomach.

Smilax glabra may also be beneficial for those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Studies suggest that taking this medicinal herb regularly can reduce abdominal pain and other common IBS symptoms like constipation or diarrhea. In addition, some research suggests it could even be helpful in treating ulcers due to its anti-inflammatory effects on the gut lining.

8. Fighting Fungal and Bacterial Infections

Smilax glabra has powerful antimicrobial properties, making it a natural remedy for fighting fungal and bacterial infections.

Studies show that extracts from the plant contain multiple active compounds that can fight off various types of bacteria and fungi, including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, and Aspergillus niger.

The plant’s extracts have also been effective against other infectious agents such as Cryptosporidium parvum and certain viruses.

9. Treating Skin Conditions

It’s well known that Smilax glabra can be used to fight fungal and bacterial infections, but its benefits don’t stop there. The plant also has demonstrated effectiveness in treating skin conditions.

The root of Smilax glabra is a popular remedy for skin issues such as boils, itching, rashes, and eczema. [2]

It can help reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of the skin by promoting healthy cell growth. Additionally, it helps treat psoriasis by reducing redness and scaling of the affected area.

To use it on your skin, you can make a paste out of the powdered root mixed with water or oil or apply an extract directly to the skin while avoiding contact with your eyes and mucous membranes.

✅ Recommended: Sarsaparilla Root Powder/Tu Fu Ling/Smilax Glabra, 1lb Bulk Herb Powder

Smilax glabra also possesses antimicrobial properties which makes it effective against acne-causing bacteria as well as other pathogens like staphylococcus aureus and candida albicans.

This means that applying a paste or extract made from Smilax glabra to your skin may help reduce breakouts caused by these microbes.

10. Reduces blood sugar levels

Scientists studied Smilax glabra to see if it can lower blood sugar levels in mice with diabetes.

They used extracts from the plant’s roots and found that it reduced blood sugar levels in mice with diabetes.

The plant extract also improved insulin sensitivity, which is important for controlling blood sugar.

Overall, the study suggests that Smilax glabra may have potential as a natural treatment for diabetes.

11. Potential Treatment Of Heart Enlargement

In this study, researchers investigated the effects of the extracted flavonoids from Smilax Glabra on heart enlargement (cardiac hypertrophy) in rats and heart cells.

They found that Smilax Glabra reduced heart enlargement, improved heart function, and reduced fibrosis. Smilax Glabra worked by regulating a specific pathway called the Raf/MEK/ERK pathway, which is involved in heart enlargement.

These findings suggest that TFLF could be a potential treatment for heart enlargement.

12. Protects Your Liver

Fatty liver happens when fat builds up in the liver and can lead to health problems.

In this study, scientists looked at Smilax glabra and its effects on fatty liver. They found that a specific extract from this plant, called FSGR, can interact with the bacteria in our gut.

When rats with fatty liver were given FSGR, it reduced the amount of fat in their liver and improved the balance of good bacteria in their intestines.

This suggests that FSGR could be used as a natural treatment to help with fatty liver and related health issues.

In another study, researchers wanted to see if Smilax glabra could protect the liver from damage caused by carbon tetrachloride, a harmful chemical.

They used rats and divided them into different groups. Some rats were given Smilax glabra Roxb. extract, while others were not.

After the treatment, they looked at the rats’ blood and liver samples. They found that the rats given the extract had lower levels of certain liver enzymes and less damage to their liver cells.

The extract also reduced inflammation in the liver. This suggests that Smilax glabra Roxb. extract could be helpful in treating liver injuries.

13. Helps bones grow and become stronger

Scientists studied the effects of Smilax glabra on bone cells.

They isolated a compound called astilbin from the plant and tested it in the lab.

They found that both the extract and astilbin were not harmful to bone cells at different concentrations.

In fact, they helped the bone cells to grow and become stronger by increasing the activity of certain enzymes and promoting the deposition of calcium, which is important for bone health.

They also found that astilbin interacts with specific proteins in the bone cells, which play a role in their development.

Astilbin also increased the expression of genes related to bone cell differentiation.

These findings suggest that astilbin could be a promising natural compound for promoting bone growth and may have potential for therapeutic use in bone-related conditions.

14. Lowers Uric Acid

Smilax Glabra may help lowering uric acid as well.

In a study, scientists isolated and analyzed Smilax Glabra’s flavonoid compounds and tested them on a condition called hyperuricemia in mice.

☝️ Hyperuricemia is when there is too much uric acid in the blood, which can lead to problems like gout.

The researchers found that the flavonoids from S. glabra were able to reduce the levels of uric acid in the mice’s blood. They also observed that these flavonoids lowered the activity of an enzyme called xanthine oxidase, which is involved in uric acid production.

These findings suggest that the flavonoids from S. glabra could potentially be used to treat conditions related to high uric acid levels, like gout.

15. Has Detoxification Effects

Smilax glabra (SGB) has been found to have detoxification effects, specifically against heavy metals like lead (Pb), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), and mercury (Hg).

In tests conducted on mice, it was discovered that the total extract from SGB could lower the levels of Pb in the blood, liver, and kidneys compared to a group that didn’t receive the extract.

The same effect was seen with the total flavonoids of SGB. These flavonoids reduced the levels of Pb in a dose-dependent manner and improved the condition of the liver and kidneys.

In addition, SGB was found to decrease the availability of As and Hg in the body, protecting against their harmful effects.

15. Keeps Joints Healthy

Studies have shown that Smilax glabra (SGB) has a positive effect on joint health. One of its main active ingredients, astilbin, was investigated for its impact on osteoarthritis (OA). In an experiment using rats with OA, astilbin was compared to a control group.

The results revealed that astilbin reduced the levels of certain inflammatory proteins, such as IL-1β, TNF-α, and PI3K, which helped protect the joints. Another study looked at SGB’s effect on secondary inflammation in another condition called AA.

It was found that SGB could regulate immune cells like macrophages and T lymphocytes, suggesting it could be beneficial for treating rheumatoid arthritis.

Potential Side Effects of Smilax Glabra

Though generally considered safe, overconsumption of Smilax glabra could result in some adverse effects.

More than 2 grams per day may lead to liver damage. Some potential side effects from consuming too much of this herbal supplement include:

• Gastrointestinal issues: diarrhea, abdominal cramps, and nausea.
• Skin irritation and rashes.
• Headaches, dizziness, lethargy, or fatigue.

It’s important to note that the evidence for these side effects is largely anecdotal. Also, depending on the source of the herbs, its quality can vary significantly.

How to Use Smilax Glabra

Harnessing the healing power of Smilax glabra can be done in several ways, each offering its own unique set of advantages.

For those looking to reap the benefits of this powerful plant, here is a breakdown of how to use it for optimal effectiveness:

By applying this knowledge in an appropriate manner, users are able to get the most out of their Smilax glabra experience.

When used topically, Smilax glabra can help provide temporary relief from minor skin irritations such as rashes or hives.

It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and discomfort associated with certain conditions like arthritis or gout.

Taking Smilax glabra orally provides systemic detoxification and cleansing benefits while also improving digestion and absorption of nutrients from other foods.

Additionally, inhaling the vapors produced by boiling the leaves has been known to provide quick relief from nasal congestion while helping improve overall respiratory function.

Where To Buy Smilax Glabra

Here are 5 places you can buy quality Smilax Glabra:

Bottom Line

You may be wondering if smilax glabra is safe. Rest assured, smilax glabra has been used safely for centuries in traditional medicine with few reported side effects.

However, it’s important to use it responsibly and consult with your doctor before taking any supplement or herb. Possible interactions between smilax glabra and other medications should also be considered since they can potentially cause adverse reactions.

With proper usage and guidance from a healthcare professional, you can reap the many benefits that smilax glabra offers.

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