(Hemidesmus indicus) This plant, also called Indian Sarsaparilla, is found in South Asia, specifically India and Sri Lanka. Sarsaparilla was a principal ingredient in root beer and was traditionally used as a medicine. Internally, sarsaparilla is reputed to have diuretic and detoxifying properties which make it a widely used blood purifier and an important ingredient in spring tonic blend teas. Externally, it has been used to help treat a variety of skin problems such as psoriasis. As with other medicinal herbs, if you are pregnant please consult a physician prior to using this herb.

Boil 2 tsp. in 1 cup of water and then gently simmer for 10-15 minutes.

Caffeine Free

Sarsaparilla Soda

Ingredients:
3 Tbsp. Sarsaparilla root
2 Tbsp. Birch Bark
1 Tbsp. Licorice Root
1 Tbsp. Vanilla Beans, chopped
1 tsp. Allspice
½ tsp. Cloves, whole
1 qt. water
2 tsp. Stevia, dried leaf
2 qts. carbonated water

In a 2 quart saucepan bring 1 quart (4 cups) of water to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the sarsaparilla, birch, licorice, vanilla beans, allspice, and cloves and allow to simmer for roughly 45 minutes (do not boil!). Add in the Stevia leaf and simmer for another 10-15 minutes.

Turn the stove down to low, strain out the herbs (using cheesecloth) and put the herbal liquid back on the stove. Simmer until half of the liquid evaporates. Remove from the heat and cool. When cool pour this herbal concentrate into a glass jar or bottle with a tight fitting lid (re-strain if necessary) and refrigerate.

To make a tall glass of soda pour ¼ cup of the concentrate into 1 ¼ cups of carbonated water.

Please Note: The information given here has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.