What is sassafras tea?

Sassafras tea is a beverage made from the root bark of the sassafras tree (Sassafras albidum). It has a distinctive sweet, spicy, and slightly licorice-like flavor.

Here's some more information about sassafras tea:

History and Traditional Uses:

* Sassafras has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly among Native Americans.

* It was traditionally used for a variety of ailments, including colds, fevers, digestive problems, and skin conditions.

* It was also used to flavor food and beverages.

Active Compounds:

* The most notable compound in sassafras is safrole.

* Safrole has been shown to have potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Safety Concerns:

* Safrole is considered potentially carcinogenic (cancer-causing) in large doses.

* The FDA banned the use of safrole in food and beverages in 1960.

* This is why commercial sassafras tea is typically made from sassafras root bark that has been extracted of safrole.

How to Make Sassafras Tea:

* Use only sassafras root bark that has been certified safrole-free.

* Steep 1-2 teaspoons of dried sassafras root bark in 1 cup of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.

* Strain the tea before drinking.

Availability:

* Sassafras tea is available online and in some health food stores.

* It is also sometimes found in blends with other herbs.

Note: Always consult with a healthcare professional before consuming sassafras tea, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any health conditions.