Sarsaparilla

Smilax glabra, commonly known as Chinese sarsaparilla or Tu Fu Ling, contains bioactive compounds, including saponins, flavonoids, and polyphenols, which have demonstrated diverse pharmacological activities. Studies have suggested that Smilax glabra extracts may possess antimicrobial properties against certain tick-borne pathogens, indicating potential relevance in combating tick-borne infections, including Borrelia burgdorferi, the causative agent of Lyme disease. Additionally, the plant’s constituents have exhibited anti-inflammatory effects, which could be beneficial in managing the inflammatory responses associated with tick-borne infections. Additionally, Smilax glabra can be helpful in the management of Herxheimer reactions which are a temporary worsening of symptoms that can occur during the initial stages of treatment for certain infections, including Lyme disease. These reactions are believed to be caused by the release of toxins when bacteria are killed off by antibiotics or other antimicrobial treatments.