Sarsaparilla is an age-old remedy used as a blood purifier and tonic that boosts stamina and energy. It is thought to help to build muscle mass while avoiding the harmful side effects of anabolic steroids. Considered a mild tonic, an antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, and it may even act as an aphrodisiac.

This is a natural herb that has been used in connection with liver disease and syphilis. Although it is most commonly used in connection with eczema, psoriasis, and other skin disorders.

It is said to attack and neutralize toxins, including environmental poisons, in the blood and also promotes urination and sweating. Sarsaparilla helps to cool the body and break intermittent fevers. Sarsaparilla, as an antibacterial, has been used internally and externally to counteract infections of all kinds. When taken internally, it is said to attack microbial substances in the blood and also counteract urinary tract infections, and it was used for centuries as a treatment for syphilis, gonorrhea, and other sexually transmitted diseases. It has been listed in both the United States Pharmacopoeia and the United States Dispensatory for those ailments. When used externally, it is said to treat psoriasis, leprosy, boils, abscesses, skin diseases, wounds, and eczema.

As an anti-inflammatory, it is believed to ease rheumatism, arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. The diuretic properties of the herb are thought to stimulate urine production and increase the excretion of uric acid, which also helps to relieve gout, it will not relieve acute cases of gout but its use may prevent attacks when taken over a period of weeks or months.

Sarsaparilla carries some controversy surrounding its hormonal properties in both men and women. The herb is said to stimulate the production of natural hormones (testosterone) in men, which may help to restore both sexual interest and erectile function. And this action is different from many other male aphrodisiacs that act by increasing blood to the penis, which also carries the risk of creating high blood pressure. It also raises hormonal production in women, which may boost diminished sex drive, and may also help to alleviate the symptoms of menopause.

This herb has been beneficial for bodybuilders because the use of the Sarsaparilla boosts energy and stamina, and eases the inflammatory conditions brought on by strenuous exercise.

Sarsaparilla is commonly used in herbal preparations as a synergist, as it has been reported to facilitate the body's absorption of other drugs and phytochemicals, which accounts for its use in herbal formulas as an agent for bioavailability and to enhance the power and effect of other herbs.