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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for the efficacy of any herb nor for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Additionally, some of these plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals who have the means to process them properly into appropriate pharmaceuticals. One final note: many plants were used for a wide range of illnesses in the past, but be aware that many of the historical uses have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.



SASSAFRAS
(Sassafras albidum)
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CAUTION! The volatile oil is 90% saffrole which is CARCINAGENIC in animal tests.
The oil is rarely used as a flavoring now.
Excess (1 tsp) of the oil can cause symptoms of poisoning and kidney and liver damage.

USES

MEDICINAL:
Anodyne, antiseptic, diaphoretic, diuretic, stimulant.
Has been used as a blood cleanser.
Has been used for rheumatism, gout, arthritis and skin problems.
A tea of the roots was used by Native Americans for fever.

CULINARY:
See Cooking with Herbs and Wild Foods.




©2001 by Ernestina Parziale, CH

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