Sassafras
Sassafras albidum
An aromatic root (original root-beer flavor) once used as a spring tonic and 'blood thinner.'
Traditional use (indigenous-americas): An aromatic root (original root-beer flavor) once used as a spring tonic and 'blood thinner.'
An aromatic root (original root-beer flavor) once used as a spring tonic and 'blood thinner.'
Active constituents are under study; evidence ranges from traditional use to preliminary human trials.
- An aromatic root (original root-beer flavor) once used as a spring tonic and 'blood thinner.'
Evidence strength: traditional use.
- See the evidence level above
- Safrole is a carcinogen and banned in foods; internal use is not recommended.
- Internal use
- Pregnancy
Safrole is a carcinogen and banned in foods; internal use is not recommended.
May interact with prescription medications — review with a clinician if you take any.
Use caution in pregnancy, breastfeeding, for children, and with chronic disease unless cleared by a clinician.
Choose reputable, tested suppliers; correct identification is essential for wild-harvested plants.
A piece of Americana, but the safrole content makes the traditional tea unsafe.