Why Is Sarsaparilla Banned

Well, sassafras and sarsaparilla both contain safrole, a compound recently banned by the FDA due to its carcinogenic effects. Safrole was found to contribute to liver cancer in rats when given in high doses, and thus it and sassafras or sarsaparilla-containing products were banned.

Does sarsaparilla taste like sassafras?

Sarsaparilla was thought to have healing properties Indigenous people across the globe used the plant for different ailments like arthritis, psoriasis, and eczema. The same Healthline report asserts that the popular 1800s drink was made using sassafras and is said to have tasted like root beer or birch beer.

Do they still make sarsaparilla?

Sarsaparilla drink Contrary to popular belief, the sarsaparilla soft drink was typically made from another plant called sassafras. … The drink is still popular in certain Southeast Asian countries, but is no longer common in the United States.