Smilax aristolochiifolia
Smilax aristolochiifolia, commonly known as Sarsaparilla, is a climbing woody vine prized for its medicinal properties. Historically used to treat skin ailments, rheumatism, and blood purification, its roots contain valuable saponins. This versatile plant remains a significant subject in ethnobotany, valued for its restorative benefits in traditional medicine.
- Scientific name: Smilax aristolochiifolia
- Family: Smilacaceae
- Native range: Northern America
Taxonomical Classification
This plant belongs to the kingdom Plantae and is classified under the phylum Streptophyta and class Equisetopsida. Within the subclass Magnoliidae and order Liliales, it is further organized into the family Smilacaceae. Finally, it is identified by the genus Smilax, specifically as the species Smilax aristolochiifolia.
| Rank | Classification | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae | WCVP |
| Phylum | Streptophyta | WCVP |
| Class | Equisetopsida | WCVP |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae | WCVP |
| Order | Liliales | WCVP |
| Family | Smilacaceae | WCVP |
| Genus | Smilax | WCVP |
Common Names
This plant, known scientifically as Smilax aristolochiifolia, is recognized by various names across different linguistic traditions. In Persian, it is referred to as سارساپاریلای مکزیکی, while in Arabic, it is called سميلاكس أرستولوشيفوليا.| Language | Common Name | Source |
|---|---|---|
| fa | سارساپاریلای مکزیکی | Wikidata |
| ar | سميلاكس أرستولوشيفوليا | Wikidata |
Distribution
This plant exhibits a widespread presence throughout various regions of Mexico. Its distribution extends across the central part of the country, covering the area known as Mexico Central. Additionally, it can be found spanning the northeastern territories of Mexico Northeast. The species is also established within the coastal and inland areas of Mexico Gulf. Finally, its range reaches into the diverse landscapes of both Mexico Southwest and Mexico Southeast.
| Region | Area | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Mexico | Mexico Central | WCVP |
| Mexico | Mexico Northeast | WCVP |
| Mexico | Mexico Gulf | WCVP |
| Mexico | Mexico Southwest | WCVP |
| Mexico | Mexico Southeast | WCVP |
| Central America | Belize | WCVP |
| Central America | El Salvador | WCVP |
| Central America | Guatemala | WCVP |
| Central America | Honduras | WCVP |
Plant Parts
This plant, known for its medicinal properties, utilizes various components for its therapeutic effects. Specifically, the tender stems are often harvested due to their flexibility and nutrient content, while the roots serve as a primary source of the plant's active compounds. Together, these parts contribute to the overall traditional uses of Smilax aristolochiifolia in various herbal remedies.- Total parts
- 2
- Scientific sources
- 2
| Plant Part | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| tender stems | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| roots | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
Medicinal Uses
Smilax aristolochiifolia has 4 reported medicinal uses identified across 4 scientific publications and several other databases. The most consistently reported uses include baldness, dysentery, hair loss, menstrual pain.
- Total uses
- 4
- Scientific sources
- 4
Most Reported Uses
| Use | Sources | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| baldness | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| dysentery | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| hair loss | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |
| menstrual pain | 1 | ★☆☆☆☆ |