What Is Sarsaparilla Root?
Sarsaparilla is the name given to the roots of two different plants, and we offer both. Mexican sarsaparilla comes from Smilax species, such as Smilax medica and Smilax regelii, thorny climbing vines native to Mexico and Central America. Indian sarsaparilla comes from Hemidesmus indicus, a slender climbing plant from India and Sri Lanka, known as anantmool in Ayurveda.
Mexican sarsaparilla root is long, thin and fibrous, with an earthy, slightly bitter and woody taste. It is the root that gave its name to the old American soft drink sarsaparilla, a close relative of root beer, and it was a common flavoring in 19th century tonics and drinks.
Indian sarsaparilla is not related to Smilax. Its roots are thin and reddish-brown, and when broken they release a sweet, vanilla-like scent. In India it is used to prepare cooling summer drinks and syrups, as well as in Ayurvedic preparations.
Both roots are used to brew root tea, simmer homemade root beer and sarsaparilla syrup, and blend with other roots and spices such as licorice root, ginger, cinnamon and birch bark.
Our sarsaparilla root contains only the dried root of the type you choose. It is sold by weight, from small packs to bulk.
How to Use Sarsaparilla Root
- Root tea: Simmer 1 to 2 teaspoons (about 3 to 5 g) of root in 1 1/2 cups (12 fl oz / 350 ml) of water for 15 minutes, then strain.
- Homemade root beer syrup: Simmer sarsaparilla root with ginger, licorice root, cinnamon and a vanilla pod in water for 20 minutes. Strain, add sugar or molasses and dissolve. Mix with sparkling water to serve.
- Indian summer drink: Steep Indian sarsaparilla in hot water, strain, cool and sweeten with sugar and lemon for a sweet, vanilla-scented drink.
Safety
If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a qualified healthcare professional before use. Keep out of reach of children.
Read our full guide: How to brew sarsaparilla root tea: our guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Mexican and Indian sarsaparilla?
Mexican sarsaparilla is Smilax, an earthy root used in root beer. Indian sarsaparilla is Hemidesmus indicus, an unrelated plant with a sweet, vanilla-like scent.
Which sarsaparilla is used for root beer?
Mexican sarsaparilla, Smilax, is the traditional root beer and sarsaparilla soda root.
What is Smilax medica?
Smilax medica is one of the Smilax vines sold as Mexican sarsaparilla.
What does sarsaparilla tea taste like?
Mexican sarsaparilla is earthy and slightly bitter. Indian sarsaparilla is milder, sweeter and vanilla-like.
How should I store sarsaparilla root?
Keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry and dark place.
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