They come from a perennial, trailing, climbing vine with prickly stems and deep roots which are tubers. The plant is a member of the greenbrier family.
Three varieties are used: Smilax officinalis, Smilax aristolochiaefolia and Smilax ornata.
The early shoots in the spring can be eaten like asparagus.
Sarsaparilla the drink is made from the roots. It is a brown, non-alcoholic drink that sometimes has a medicinal flavour.
In the UK, you can buy Sarsaparilla as a cordial from Mawson’s since 1998 (the product was retired by they revived it.)
Nutrition
Sarsaparilla was used as a spring time tonic.
History Notes
Sarsaparilla was introduced into Europe in the 1500s.
Language Notes
The word “Sarsaparilla” comes from Spanish “zarza” (“shrub”) and “parilla” (“little vine”.)
Usually pronounced “Sass pah rilla.”