What is smilax? What is it used for?

Also known as the glabrous greenbrier, smilax is an aquatic plant that belongs to the lily family, with large, circular green leaves and a thin stem. In China, smilax grows predominantly in the Yangtse river valley and the country's southern provinces. The dried rhizome of the plant is used in herbal remedies.

According to the principles of traditional Chinese medicine, smilax has sweet and cool properties, and is associated with the Stomach and Kidney meridians. It is used to treat a variety of urinary conditions, especially urinary tract infections and cysts; animal studies have shown that smilax can fight cancers of the liver and urinary bladder. In addition, smilax is effective in relieving joint pain and rheumatoid arthritis. In women, it helps to relieve painful menstruation and irregular menstruation, and to treat fibroids and cysts that may develop in the ovaries.

In addition to internal uses, smilax may also be applied externally. It can treat conditions such as skin ulcers and psoriaris.

For centuries, Smilax Glabra Rhizoma has been used in China as a detoxification agent to treat sexually transmitted diseases (like syphilis). Its recorded use in history dates back to approximately the 5th century A.D. It has been prescribed to heal gout in Latin America, and contains at least four phytosterols that feature wide-ranging curing properties. It also is a source of carotenoids, amino acids, minerals, and vitamins that work synergistically to support the prostate health of men. In this capacity, it is included in such natural remedies as the Advanced Botantical Tincture For Painful Prostatis. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Smilax Glabra Rhizoma is used to treat an additional variety of urinary conditions, such as urinary tract infections and related cyst growth.

In herbal medicine, Smilax Glabra Rhizoma is usually combined with other herbs to form a synergy that will enhance its tonic, detoxifying, and blood purifying abilities. It is often found as an ingredient in various herbal remedies designed to treat low sex drive and is even a common ingredient in sports nutrition formulas. In addition, Smilax is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. It is said to provide relief from painful and irregular menstruation, and to treat fibroids and cysts that may develop in women. Besides internal uses, Smilax may also be applied externally by TCM doctors where it can be effective in treating skin disorder conditions such as skin ulcers and psoriasis. 

How much smilax should I take?

The typical dosage of smilax is between 15 and 30 grams per day, decocted in water. Larger amounts of powdered smilax can be used to treat skin conditions. Smilax is also incorporated into some formulas used to treat skin disorders.

What forms of smilax are available?

The most common form of smilax available is as a powder, which can be found at many herbal shops, supplement stores and Asian markets. It should be stored in a dry place for preservation.

What can happen if I take too much smilax? Are there any interactions I should be aware of? What precautions should I take?

Smilax is considered safe; the American Herbal Products Association has given it a class 1 rating. However, smilax should be used with caution by patients who have been diagnosed with liver deficiency and/or kidney deficiency. In addition, some traditional texts have suggested that smilax not be consumed with tea, although the exact reason for this remains unclear.

Smilax may interact with certain drugs, including hypnotic medications and digitalis. As always, make sure to consult with a licensed health care provider before taking smilax or any other herbal remedy or dietary supplement.

Rinse the herbs with cold running water; then soak it for 30min. Water : Herbs (3L : 100g)
Bring to a boil, lower the hear and simmer for a further 2hours.
Keep refridgerated and take 1cup 3times daily.(hot or cold)

Advice to consumers
Some individuals may have adverse reactions to certain plants, herbs, and other natural products. 
Just because something is natural does not mean it is safe for everyone. 
On any issue where no specific advice is given to consumers please follow this general advice if you are currently taking the product:

you are advised to discontinue use and consult your pharmacist or herbal medical doctor. 
when speaking to your doctor of pharmacist you may find it helpful to take a copy of this MHRA advice about the product with you
you should continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor.

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