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Sassafras
Family:
Lauraceae |
Latin Name:
Sassafras albidum |
Description
Small deciduous trees with aromatic, mitten-shaped leaves and rough gray, deeply-channeled bark. Flowers are pale yellow-green in 2-inch racemes. Most leaves are 3-lobed, though some are ovate. Produces a blue ovoid fruit with one seed. Height: 30-50 feet. Blooms: Spring, before leaves appear.
Common Uses
Sassafras is used for treating high blood pressure, rheumatism, arthritis, gout, menstrual, and kidney problems. The herb is listed in the British Pharmacopoeia for head lice, skin diseases, acne, and ulcers. The root bark improves digestion and is a remedy for poison ivy and poison oak. It is also a diuretic. WARNING: SASSAFRAS IS ON THE FDA'S UNSAFE LIST.
History
The roots smell like root beer, the wood smells like an athlete's foot medicine, and the young leaves have a citrusy odor. It was once used to flavor root beer and tea, and its bark was one of the first exports sent back to Europe from the New World.
Products Containing this Ingredient
Wanita’s Sunwheel Tea
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