If you should experience this side effect while taking sarsaparilla, stop using it and consult with your healthcare provider. Traditionally, sarsaparilla is brewed in a tea. While preliminary research is promising, more clinical data is necessary to validate any claim of potential health benefits of sarsaparilla. [5][6][7][8][9], Sarsaparilla was popular in the United States in the 19th century. While it has certain things in common with coffee and traditional teas, including its antioxidant content, it doesnt contain significant amounts of caffeine. They found that sarsaparilla produced hepatoprotective potential, and did not cause any substantial side effects, at least in rats. Different variations of the herb have been studied. Credit Card. & Lpez-Ferrari, A.R. If youre pregnant, its best to avoid this plant, since there havent been many studies showing its safe to be used during this time. Supplements that may have similar effects to sarsaparilla may be but are not limited to: You can find sarsaparilla supplements in numerous forms. Nasty Foods: The Worlds Most Disgusting Foods (With. [19], In Cambodia, sarsaparilla is one of the flavors sold under the Fanta brand, bottled and distributed by Cambodia Beverage Company Ltd., a unit of the Coca-Cola SABCO Group.[20]. that help treat some of the following health problems: What gives sarsaparilla its healing abilities? During the 19th century, sarsaparilla was advertised as treatment for skin and blood problems but the verdict has remained out on whether it has any actual health benefits at all. The roots are pulled and dug out of the ground, cleaned, dried, and ground into a fine powder. - April 19, 2023, 1.95 Teas and supplements containing sarsaparilla are used by some people to prevent coughs and other flu-like symptoms. Opens a new window. Those with kidney impairment are advised caution. Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Sarsaparilla soda is a drink made from sarsaparilla root, licorice root, cinnamon, and various other spicy and flavorful herbs or dried roots. With sarsaparilla, you will get a non-alcoholic, healthy drink, while you can choose among a few sweet beer options. - March 8, 2023, 1.65 This may lead to secondary benefits such as help with muscle growth, libido and sexual function. There are about 350 species, including Smilax officinalis and Smilax glabra. Phytomedicine 2022;95:153728. (eds.) OTHER NAME(S): Ecuadorian Sarsaparilla, Gray Sarsaparilla, Hondur. Shu, X. S., Gao, Z. H., and Yang, X. L. Supercritical fluid extraction of sapogenins from tubers of Smilax china. In the North of England sarsaparilla is produced by Fitzpatrick's, Britain's last temperance bar, reflecting its former importance to the temperance movement there. You can consume sarsaparilla in tea, tonic, tincture or capsule form. Certain studies have identified astilbin flavonoid isolates taken from the root ofSmilax plants as the active compounds responsible for immunosuppressive activities and inhibition against activated T lymphocytes that cause skin inflammation. Today, sarsaparilla products go by many different names depending on exactly which roots or plants are used to make the product, how theyre prepared, and what part of the world they come from. Other research by some of the same scientists suggested sarsaparilla promoted beneficial changes in cancerous cells by slowing growth and increasing cancer cell death. World Allergy Organization. Traditionally, teas made from sarsaparilla root were also used to clean the blood, improve liver function and remove toxins from the body. products are made following standards that promote worker well-being, strong supply chains, and a safe environment. [10] The Oxford Companion to American Food and Drink notes that it evokes images of "languid belles and parched cowboys". Sources of Sarsaparilla & What To Look For. Sarsaparilla ( UK: / srsprl /, US also / ssprl / sas-p-RIL-) [1] is a soft drink originally made from the vine Smilax ornata (also called 'sarsaparilla') or other species of Smilax such as Smilax officinalis. Temporarily out of stock. Lastly, saponins inside sarsaparilla plants can lower cholesterol levels, especially LDL. However, some scientific research has backed up these health claims. Carbohydrate polymers. Bundaberg Sarsaparilla is made to a genuine family recipe using sarsaparilla root, ground ginger, liquorice root, vanilla bean and molasses to give it that rich, unique colour and flavour. Interesting Fact The name "Sarsaparilla" originated from the Spanish word "zarzaparrilla." Original sarsaparilla, which is made from root and bark extracts, has a slightly bitter taste. Today, most sarsaparilla drinks use artificial flavoring, though Bundaberg brewing company's recipe uses real ingredients such as the popular licorice root, ginger root, vanilla bean, molasses . [21] Both brands can be found in some local restaurants and stalls or marketplace. That means drinking sarsaparilla soda will not give you the same benefits that consuming the root might. Cancer Prev Res (Phila). Salted significantly saltier with a bitter aftertaste. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. What does sarsaparilla taste like? Sarsaparilla is a plant thats native to South and Central America and has been used in folk medicine for thousands of years to lower inflammation, raise immunity and promote longevity. It has become embedded in the cultural and economic traditions of the city. Opticians. Marisa Moore is a registered dietitian nutritionist with a BS in nutrition science and MBA in marketing. If you agree, well also use cookies to complement your shopping experience across the Amazon stores as described in our Cookie Notice. Simply type the product you want to compare and find the cheapest superstore. Sarsaparilla vines are native to Central America. Opens a new window. All prices mentioned above are in British pound. (2000). With strict editorial sourcing guidelines, we only link to academic research institutions, reputable media sites and, when research is available, medically peer-reviewed studies. We are going to tackle these drinks head-on and look into how these drinks fare against each other in more depth below. 2017;93:713-720. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2017.05.127, Wang M, Zhao J, Zhang N, Chen J. Astilbin improves potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemia and kidney injury through regulating oxidative stress and inflammation response in mice. For example, sarsaparilla is actually the name for a type of soft drink (similar to root beer) thats flavored with the root of the plant. Its believed that many Native American populations used sarsparilla to treat conditions like coughs and colds. Sarsaparilla (UK: /srsprl/, US also /ssprl/ sas-p-RIL-)[1] is a soft drink originally made from the vine Smilax ornata (also called 'sarsaparilla') or other species of Smilax such as Smilax officinalis. 2019;240:111830. Melissa Nieves, LND, RD, is a registered dietitian working for a private practice. Producers of Frascati owned almost all of the taverns. The plant-based diet continues to grow in popularity, and it can be You see them on top of sushi rolls or added to Japanese Daniel Fast: Benefits for Your Spiritual, Emotional and Physical Health, 15 Fermented Foods for a Healthy Gut and Overall Health, 9 Proven Black Seed Oil Benefits that Boost Your Health, L-Glutamine Benefits Leaky Gut & Metabolism, Chia Seeds Benefits: The Omega-3, Protein-Packed Superfood, Apple Cider Vinegar Benefits for Weight Loss, Skin Health, Cholesterol & More, 15 Best Plant-Based Protein Foods that Fight Disease & Boost Weight Loss, The Real Risks of GMO Foods & How to Avoid Them, Plant-Based Diet: Disease-Protective + Promotes Major Weight Loss, The Potential Benefits & Drawbacks of Tobiko (Plus Healthy Alternatives), Rheumatoid arthritis pains, joint pain or rheumatism, Skin problems, including eczema, psoriasis, toe fungus, wounds, ulcers and ringworm, Infections, such as sexually transmitted diseases like syphilis and gonorrhea. Those with kidney impairment are advised caution. Consejo Nacional de la Flora de Mxico, Mxico D.F.. Nelson Sutherland, C.H. What are the side effects of sarsaparilla? Sarsaparilla is made from the Smilax Ornata plant or other variants of plants. In terms of which part of the sarsaparilla plant to use, its ideal to find pure, dried roots and boil them yourself in order to create an antioxidant-rich tonic that can be consumed when youre feeling sick or run down. In this context, sassafras should not be confused with common sassafras seasoning, fil, used in Cajun cooking and made from dried and ground sassafras leaves. Naturejam Black Sarsaparilla Root Tea 1 Pound-Bulk Bag-Herbs From Mexico. While every care has been taken to ensure product information is correct, food products are constantly being reformulated, so ingredients, nutrition content, dietary and allergens may change. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC, an Internet Brands company. Hi-Mark by Green Spot[citation needed] was the domestic sarsaparilla drink in Thailand, but was discontinued in 2000. 1 oz. Digoxin is a drug that helps the heart. One study investigating the effects of over 100 plants for treating bacterial infections of the skin found that sarsaparilla was one of the most effective for fighting symptoms of dermatophyte infections, which often impact populations living in third-world countries, due to its fungicidal and fungistatic activities. From the genus Smilax, sarsaparilla grows in deep rainforests found in the warm climates of the Caribbean, Mexico, Central and South America, and the West Indies. In the 1940s, Li Zhiyang (), Li Guanling (), Huang Youtong (), Liang Hanqi (), and Wang Zhensan () were among eleven people who had worked in Watson's Canton and founded Asian Waters in Guangzhou to continue producing Sarsae there and in other mainland Chinese locations.[27]. But human studies to support this benefit are lacking. New furostanol saponins with anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic activities from the rhizomes of Smilax davidiana. Opens a new window. 2006 May-June 26(3A);2157-2164. Because conditions likeskin rashes, bites and bacterial infections are common problems in developing and tropical countries, natural herbal remedies serve as important treatments for preventing complications thanks to their antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Amazon and the Amazon logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc or its affiliates. For this reason, it is not recommended for use by pregnant or breastfeeding people. Biomedicine and pharmacology. When possible, choose a supplement that has been tested by a trusted third party, such as USP, ConsumerLabs, or NSF. 1.60 You should always read the product label and not rely solely on the information provided on the website. Most notably, many people believed sarsaparilla healed syphilis; others hailed it as a cure for herpes; and the drink was also thought to cure gonorrhea (via Serious Eats).Whatever the affliction might have been, chances are sarsaparilla was . Badak was established by a Swiss national named Heinrich Surbeck in 1916 in Pematangsiantar, North Sumatra and Indo Saparella was established in 1960 in Yogyakarta. Clin Chem. Many parts of the sarsaparilla plant are used as flavorings in foods and beverages. DOI: 10.1016.j.jep.2010.05.032. There are two well known sarsaparilla brands in Indonesia, Badak (from North Sumatra) and Indo Saparella (from the Special Region of Yogyakarta). Shop products from small and medium business brands and artisans in your community sold in Amazons store. She is a noted chef and avid gardener. If more digoxin is potentially absorbed, its effects may increase. In the Philippines, Sarsi is a brand name for a sarsaparilla drink originally manufactured by Cosmos Bottling Corporation, a local company that is now a subsidiary of Coca-Cola Beverages Philippines, Inc.[25] Cosmos Bottling Corporation was established in 1918 as Manila Aerated Water Company. Astilbin decreases proliferation and improves differentiation in HaCaT keratinocytes. The name is most likely derived from the Latin word "latus", meaning "wide", expressing the idea of "flat land" (in contrast to the local Sabine high country).The Etruscans, from their home region of . Therapeutic Research Center. Some of these uses have limited support from preliminary studies, but evidence is insufficient. Cassie brings decades of experience to the Kitchen Community. Sarsaparillas antioxidant status may also make it beneficial to your skin. Does sarsaparilla tea offer any benefits? Occupational asthma caused by sarsaparilla root dust. $0.79 Sarsaparilla Soda, 12 Oz. 1996;97(6):1416-1418, Abdala S, Martn-herrera D, Benjumea D, Gutirrez SD. If you like a bit bitter flavor, you should pick out a glass of sarsaparilla. It is manufactured and distributed by the A. S. Watson Group, which pioneered in carbonated beverages in Hong Kong. This is just a mixed fruit drink, very poor, I tipped it down the sink after just one taste. There's also Agung Ngoro a local soft drink brand who produces traditional sarsaparilla in a glass bottle. Sarsaparilla is a sweet, nutritious bright red berry found on the American continent. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Sarsaparilla-smilax ornate root liquid. Any time you use herbal supplements, you should consider the safety concerns and discuss them with your doctor. Its taste has been described as a combination of licorice, caramel, and wintergreen. 2016;2016:4683059. doi:10.1155/2016/4683059, Guo J, Qian F, Li J, Xu Q, Chen T. Identification of a new metabolite of astilbin, 3'-O-methylastilbin, and its immunosuppressive activity against contact dermatitis. 2017;69(8):1281-1289. doi:10.1080/01635581.2017.1362447, She t, Zhao C, Feng J, et al. The plant itself does not contain growth hormones but may help regulate hormone production by reducing inflammation and improving liver function. Energizing, sweet sarsaparilla taste. In an in vitro study published in Anticancer Research, 24 extracts were obtained from wild sarsaparilla, including stem, leaf and fruit excerpts. 4 ounces sarsaparilla Steps to Make It Gather the ingredients. Other herbal remedies containing saponins, such asfenugreek, are commonly used to reduce effects due to declining reproductive hormones, such as weight gain, impotence, loss of muscle mass, weakening bones and other side effects. This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by our trained editorial staff. Sarsaparilla contains A, C, D, and B-complex vitamins and a whole host of minerals such as iodine, iron, manganese, zinc, copper, and silicon. One more thing! Wu LS, Wang XJ, Wang H, Yang HW, Jia AQ, Ding Q. Cytotoxic polyphenols against breast tumor cell in Smilax china L. J Ethnopharmacol. Clinical studies have not verified the many traditional medicinal uses of sarsaparilla. Astilbin decreases proliferation and improves differentiation in HaCaT keratinocytes. Modern forms of the drink called sarsaparilla dont generally contain any part of the plantit may not even contain the plant that the drink was made from historically (sassafras). This does not taste like sarsaparilla, I remember sarsaparilla from being a child being able to buy sarsaparilla ice lollies from shop next to my Grandma's and this tastes nothing like it, not even a hint of sarsaparilla. This has resulted in modern root beer beverages being flavored with sassafras oils and birch without the original plant. While there are similarities between the two, there are some key differences to take into account. CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. Though sarsaparilla was widely consumed as a cure-all and considered a health drink, it was commonly thought to cure a couple of specific diseases. 2008 Sept 29(4);296-301. doi:10.3109/13880209109082901. Sarsaparilla also contains dozens of other anti-inflammatory, antioxidant acids, oils and chemicals that lower oxidative stress and have anti-aging effects. Steep the sarsaparilla root in the hot water for 30 minutes, then combine with white granulated sugar. If you are taking a sarsaparilla tincture, the suggested dose is five to 10 milliliters (mL) per day. Due to the effects that sarsaparillas antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds have on breaking mucus bonds and making mucus less sticky, phlegm and bacteria are able to be passed out of the body more easily. Select a condition to view a list of vitamins. 2nd ed. Sarsaparilla is considered an effective and safe folk remedy for skin conditions, including fungus, eczema, pruritus, rashes and wounds. Root beer is generally considered to be the tastier of the two drinks. So, there is some concern that the herb may exacerbate the symptoms of asthma. This could increase how much lithium is in the body and result in serious side effects. Sarsaparilla is the common name of a climbing plant genus called Smilax. This ultimately helps with controlling tissue damage caused byfree radical damage and inflammatory responses. Some varieties thrive in Southeast Asia and Australia. Sarsaparilla (Smilax glabra rhizome) extract inhibits cancer cell growth by S phase arrest, apoptosis, and autophagy via redox-dependent ERK1/2 pathway. 2017;93:713-720. doi:10.1016/j.biopha.2017.05.127, Zhou M, Huang L, Li L, et al. These findings may be used to support claims of sarsaparilla's traditional detoxifying effect. Monin Old Fashioned Root Beer Syrup; Fill with club soda; You can change your choices at any time by visiting Cookie Preferences, as described in the Cookie Notice. Online storefronts may sell sarsaparilla root by mail, but it is unlikely that the root is available at your local pharmacy or drug store. That being said, false claims that taking sarsaparilla has anabolic effects (can improve muscle growth) have not been proven. Inflamm.Res 2003;52(8):334-340. Note that the numbers in parentheses (1, 2, etc.) J Ethnopharmacol. 1996-2023, Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates, Antarctica - Soda Guarana - 11.83 Fl. Try again. 3. Whats The Difference? As medicine, there isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of sarsaparilla might be. View abstract. Smilax ornata, a perennial trailing vine with prickly stems that is native to Mexico and Central America, is often used as the basis for the soft drink sarsaparilla. The unique taste that distinguishes the current version of Sarsi from other sarsaparilla-based soft drinks is attributed to the sugar substitute saccharin, although its "regular" formula contains high fructose corn syrup or cane sugar. As always, check with your doctor before you take this or other supplement. $17.95 $ 17. Express Delivery Available Order before 1 pm on weekdays Free Returns with our 28 day money back guarantee Skip to the end of the images gallery Youre most likely to find it in health food stores or online. However, to some, this slight bitter taste is overwhelming. Opens a new window. The plants medicinal properties stem from its active chemical compounds, which include saponins and phytosterols. Wang J, Li Q, Ivanochko G, Huang Y. Anticancer effect of extracts from a North American medicinal plant--wild sarsaparilla. Where can I purchase sarsaparilla? Summary. Sarsaparilla supplements come in capsule, tablet, tincture, and powder forms. Saponins are anti-inflammatory compounds that assist in killing bacteria and phytosterols are the plant's sterols, which support heart health. Low potassium levels can increase the side effects of digoxin. [3] Common names include sarsaparilla,[4] Honduran sarsaparilla,[4] and Jamaican sarsaparilla. 4. Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. The Integrative Medicine and Dermatology Clinic in New York points out that herbal remedies help treat skin problems differently than medications do because they strengthen the host, as opposed to destroying the vector or manifestation of the disease.. Fitoterapia 2004;75(7-8):656-661. Overview. Other Available Flavors: Sarsaparilla. Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology. Gift Cards. Interestingly, in the United States, the once-common drink named sarsaparilla didnt contain any ingredients from the plant; it contained flavoring from the sassafras plant. It is important to carefully read a supplement's ingredient list and nutrition facts panel to know which ingredients and how much of each is included. Other common names include Khao yern, Jupicanga, Liseron epineux and Zarzaparrillla. - December 14, 2022, 1.40 If you have any queries, or you'd like advice on any Tesco brand products, please contact Tesco Customer Services, or the product manufacturer if not a Tesco brand product. dark, twist-off top glass bottles. J Allergy Clin Immunol. In the case of fevers or other viruses that cause upset stomach, its sometimes helpful for lowering nauseaand helping regulate bowel function. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any supplements you plan to take and to check in about any potential interactions with other supplements or medications. Once European travelers brought the plant back to the colonies and elsewhere, it became a common medical treatment for infections, including syphilis and other sexually transmitted diseases. More studies are needed in humans to know for sure if it provides any benefit. Product Details Return Policy Delivery Info Good to Know General Disclaimer: Case includes (12) 12 fl. Verywell Fit's content is for informational and educational purposes only. Zevia Zero Calorie Energy Drink, 4-Flavor Classic Variety Pack, 12 Fl Oz (Pack of 12), Monster Energy Java Loca Moca, Coffee + Energy Drink, 15 Ounce (Pack of 12). George. Studies have demonstrated that sarsaparilla has hepatoprotective effects (fighting liver damage and liver disease) due to its antioxidants, acids and plant sterols. J Ethnopharmacol. American soldiers stationed in Northern Ireland during World War Two are said to be responsible for the drink's popularity. We use cookies and similar tools that are necessary to enable you to make purchases, to enhance your shopping experiences and to provide our services, as detailed in our Cookie Notice. A-Treat Old Fashioned Sarsaparilla Soda, Made with Cane Sugar, 4-Pack of 12 Oz.Glass Bottles. Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020. Sarsaparillais an herbal remedy used to ease arthritis, fight infections, relieve skin problems, and may even help treat cancer. [17][18], HeySong Sarsaparilla (Chinese: ) is the most popular brand of sarsaparilla drink in Taiwan. 1st ed. Maine Soft Drinks, based in Northern Ireland, also produce the drink. Tips If you take any medications or have sensitivities to other herbs, speak with a doctor before using sarsaparilla. In fact, in 1450, there were 1,022 taverns in Rome. Sarsaparilla (which has the species namesSmilax Ornata, Smilax regeliiorSmilax officinalis) is a perennial vine that grows in warm temperatures, such as those in the southern most states of the U.S. or Central and South America. Sarsaparilla. "" ! Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a, Smart Grocery Shopping When You Have Diabetes, Surprising Things You Didn't Know About Dogs and Cats, Mediterranean, Low-Fat Diets Are Best for Heart Problems, Least Amount of Exercise You Need to Stay Healthy, Nerve 'Pulse' Therapy May Help Ease Sciatica, New Book: Take Control of Your Heart Disease Risk, MINOCA: The Heart Attack You Didnt See Coming, Health News and Information, Delivered to Your Inbox, The Role Gut Bacteria Plays on the Overall Body. Sarsaparilla made its debut as a patent medicine, an easy-to-take form of sassafras, much as Coca-Cola was first marketed in 1885 as a remedy for hangovers, headaches and morphine addiction. Integrated Taxonomic Information System. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. It survived the ban of safrole better than sarsaparilla soda because it was able to simply replace the sarsaparilla root with more of the other root beer ingredients and artificial flavors to get a similar taste to the original product. However, these findings lack sufficient evidence and need further investigation in human trials. Vandenplas O, Depelchin S, Toussaint G, et al. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0118287, Wang M, Zhao J, Zhang N, Chen J. Astilbin improves potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemia and kidney injury through regulation oxidative stress and inflammation response in mice. An authentic and refreshing drink with it's roots bedded in the Caribbean. 2017;127:62-68. doi:10.1016/j.steroids.2017.08.013. They also treat symptoms themselves through mucolytic effects and/or inhibitory effects on cough reflexes. Title 21. Investigation of the anti-inflammatory and the analgesic effects of the extracts from Smilax ornata Lem. 2015;122:428-36. doi:10.1016/j.carbpol.2014.11.035, Park G, Kim TM, Kim JH, Oh MS. Antioxidant effects of the sarsaparilla via scavenging of reactive oxygen species and induction of antioxidant enzymes in human dermal fibroblasts. Br Med J. J Nat.Prod. orange liqueur; 3 / 4 oz. This Dr. Axe content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure factually accurate information. We currently have no information for SARSAPARILLA overview. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before using any such supplements. Sarsaparilla may offer a hepatoprotective effect, which is an ability to prevent damage to the liver. This can increase the risk of heart damage. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical assistance immediately. Sarsaparilla is a group of plants that grow in tropical parts of the world. According to advertisements for patent medicines of the period, it was considered to be a remedy for skin and blood problems. If you enjoy the taste of Root Beer then you will be sure to fall in love . Drinks. In Vietnam, sarsaparilla is one of the flavors (X X) sold under the Mirinda brand, bottled and distributed by Suntory-PepsiCo Vietnam Beverage (formerly, PepsiCo Vietnam). Lu CL, Wei Z, Min W, et al. These compounds found within medicinal herbs can serve as importanttherapeutic agents for ridding the body of endotoxins by making them less absorbable within the gut. As mentioned, sassafras root drinks have a long history. Unfortunately, sarsaparilla soda doesnt have the same benefits as teas, supplements or tinctures made with this plant. According to the authors of Secret Native American Herbal Remedies, the Penobscot Indians were one tribe that frequently made a tea using the plants roots, which they drank to soothe sore throats and inflamed nasal passageways. Where can you buy sarsaparilla? When storing supplements, it is good to follow packing instructions. [26] Sarsi was originally branded as Cosmos Sarsaparilla until the 1970s. Steroids. Put the sugar into a bottle. Popular flavor perfect for restaurants or bars. While modern root beers do not contain sassafras plants, they do include artificial flavoring, preservative sodium benzoate, and sweeteners such as maple syrup, honey, sugar, aspartame, and molasses. By Sioux City Product Overview Description Send your taste buds to the Wild West with cane sugar soda from Sioux City. 4.7 out of 5 stars 4. It was originally used for medicinal and culinary purposes. It's also common to refer to sarsaparilla by the name of the country where it's found (e.g., Chinese sarsaparilla or Mexican sarsaparilla). She T, Zhao C, Feng J, et al. They boost your immune system due to their strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. To decide which drink is your preferred choice is down to your personal taste. Free radicals are molecules out of balance, and high levels of them are believed to contribute to many diseases, includingcancer. Add a splash of Monin to coffee, cocktails, teas, lemonades and more.