Lowhill Valley Jamaica Sarsaparilla Root - Smilax officinalis – 100% Natural Herbal Tea – No Additives or Preservatives – Responsibly Sourced – 50g

Sarsaparilla, more formally known as Similaxornata or Similaxofficinale, is a plant that is popular in Jamaica as it is widely believed to contain health benefits. The thorny plant has long fibrous roots and was initially introduced to the island by the Spanish, who brought the plant from Central America to Jamaica as a remedy for syphilis.The name sarsaparilla comes from the Spanish words "sarza" meaning bramble and "parilla" meaning little grape vine. The Spanish were introduced to sarsaparilla by Native Americans, who made a tea from the root for coughs and colds and skin conditions. Since then, it’s become popular around the world.Jamaican Sarsaparilla Root (Smilax regelii) is said to have the highest concentration of iron in any plant and is widely used to treat anaemia and other disorders. It is commonly known as "sarsi" in Jamaica, and its use dates back centuries as a tonic for overall vitality and energy, especially sexual energy.Iron is the blood’s food supply and the blood is the medium of transport for oxygen to the brain and the rest of the body. So it is essential. Iron is seen as a magnetic mineral that pulls other minerals to it. Therefore, a herb or plant that is rich in iron would have adequate amounts of other minerals in balanced proportions. This is why sarsaparilla is so potent.In manufacturing, sarsaparilla is used as a flavouring agent in foods, beverages, and pharmaceuticals.To make Sarsaparilla Root Tea:Place sarsaparilla roots into a saucepan (1-2 teaspoons for every 250ml of water).Cover with water.Bring to the boil.Allow it to steep for 30 minutes to extract the beneficial compounds.Drain the liquid with a sieve and serve in a tea cup and enjoy it warm.Or you could make it in a teapot or tea infuser mug - but it won't taste the same nor as good. Optionally, you can add honey or lemon to enhance the flavour.This Jamaica Sarsaparilla Root from Lowhill Valley is of the highest quality and is grown in Jamaica where it has been traditionally grown and used. The product contains 100% of the listed ingredient on the label.The product and packaging is remarkable and the price is very reasonable.

I got it to try it out thinking that's what the US "Sarsaparilla" is made of. It isn't actually, that one is apparently made of birch oil, so the actual sarsaparilla root has a bit different taste. Well, it's still interesting to try, but you can't just dump it in with water from the kettle - it needs to simmer for 15+ mins then left for a few minutes as well, as otherwise it's just too weak. Good to try though, it's a nice taste.

I enjoy quite a few herbal teas of varying flavours and thought I would give this Lowhill Valley Jamaican Sarsasparilla root tea a try. I let it simmer for 15 minutes in a pan with boiled water, then let it steep for another ten as recommend on the pack. But I really did not like the smell of it as I drank it, not at all, the taste wasn't as bad but I found the smell strange and a little like shoe polish. I know everyone's taste buds are different and some people may like it, but it definitely is not for me. Even with the health benefits it may have.

Love this as a tea - I've been trying to cut out the ol caffeine, and finding something with a bit of a bite to it to sip in the morning has been key. This falls into that category, plus the add on health benefits. You can use it like you would T leaves, but I have found the boiling it up step returns a better cuppa!!

I recently tried the Lowhill Valley Jamaica Sarsaparilla Root, and it has been a pleasant addition to my herbal tea collection. The 100g pack contains 100% natural Smilax officinalis root, free from additives or preservatives, which is reassuring for those seeking pure herbal products. The roots are responsibly sourced from Jamaica, known for producing high-quality sarsaparilla.​Brewing the tea is straightforward; simmering the chopped root pieces for about 10-15 minutes yields a rich, earthy infusion with subtle notes of vanilla and licorice. The flavor is robust and grounding, making it a comforting beverage, especially during colder months.​While I cannot personally attest to the health benefits, sarsaparilla root has been traditionally used for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and to support skin health. It's also reputed to aid in detoxification and boost the immune system. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before using it for medicinal purposes.​The only drawback is that the root pieces could be cut more uniformly to ensure consistent brewing. Nonetheless, the quality and authenticity of the product make it a worthwhile purchase for those interested in traditional herbal teas.

This review is for the Lowhill Valley Jamaica Sarsaparilla Root - Smilax officinalis – 100% Natural Herbal Tea – No Additives or Preservatives – Responsibly Sourced – 100g.This sarsaparilla root appears to be of good quality and comes cleanly packaged with no unnecessary additives or preservatives. It's my first time trying sarsaparilla in its raw form, and it has a distinctive, earthy aroma that suggests it's been responsibly sourced and well prepared. A promising introduction to this traditional herbal tea.