The benefits and side effects of Sassafras tea

Read on to know about the good and bad associated with the Sassafras tea!

Sassafras tea has a very distinct flavor and aroma, similar to that of root beer, and is known to offer many medicinal benefits. This tea is native to Eastern Asia and North America where the smooth bark and fragrant leaves of this tree are used to treat cold, diarrhea, skin problems, and more. Apart from this, sassafras is also used to thicken the food preparations, prepare seasonings for Creole cuisine, and consumed as a brewed tea.

However, its use became controversial when it was found that it contains safrole, which is potentially toxic to humans. This led the manufactures to remove safrole from sassafras while processing it for consumption. Potential health benefits of consuming sassafras are as follows.

Reduce inflammation

There are many compounds present in sassafras that can block the activity of inflammatory enzymes, which can prevent chronic inflammation of the body.

Diuretic

Sassafras can be used as a natural diuretic to increase urine production, which is beneficial to lower blood pressure and fluid retention, particularly in people with chronic kidney disease.

Prevents infection

Certain compounds in sassafras bark extract have been found to treat leishmaniasis, which is spread by the parasite present in the bites of a sand fly.

Sedative

Tea prepared using sassafras also has a sedative property and should be used carefully.

Probable side effects of sassafras.

Toxic

The chemical compound safrole present in sassafras oil has been found to have a toxic effect on humans.

Cancer

Safrole present in unprocessed sassafras can induce tumor growth and result in liver cancer.

Drugs

The compound iso-safrole synthesized from safrole is used to produce illegal drugs such as MDMA or ecstasy or molly.

Other symptoms

You must discontinue use of sassafras if you experience sweating, hot flashes, or vomiting after consuming it. It should also be strictly avoided by pregnant women as it stimulates menstrual flow.