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Jamaican sarsaparilla facts for kids

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Jamaican sarsaparilla
Sarsaparilla-1271142 1920.jpg
Scientific classification
Genus:
Smilax
Species:
ornata

Smilax ornata is a plant that grows like a vine and has prickly stems. It is native to Mexico and Central America. This plant is also known by common names like sarsaparilla, Honduran sarsaparilla, and Jamaican sarsaparilla.

The word "sarsaparilla" comes from the Spanish word zarzaparrilla. This word is made up of zarza, which means "bramble" (a thorny bush), and parrilla, meaning "little grape vine".

What is Sarsaparilla Used For?

Food and Drinks

Smilax ornata is famous for being used to make a soft drink called sarsaparilla. This drink has a unique, earthy flavor. It was also a main ingredient in old-fashioned root beer, often mixed with another plant called sassafras.

Traditional Medicine

Long ago, Native American people believed that Smilax ornata had special medicinal qualities. They used it for various health purposes.

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See Also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Smilax ornata para niños

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