06/13/2026
Wonders of Sassafras!
I have seen it work wonders for a sty in the eye. Either boil the leaves or bark into a tea end rinse the eye daily for a couple of days.
SASSAFRAS ….
Sassafras trees grow from 9–35 metres (30–115 feet) tall with many slender sympodial branches and smooth, orange-brown bark or yellow bark.All parts of the plants are fragrant. The species are unusual in having three distinct leaf patterns on the same plant: unlobed oval, bilobed (mitten-shaped), and trilobed (three-pronged)
Although the plant has been labeled as carcinogenic , some studies suggest you could never ingest enough to cause it  as it would take something like 30 traditional root beers a day . 
This is because of the safrole content in the plant which has been suggested cause to liver damage and cancer
 in fact, this is how root beer gets its name, but root beers no longer contain actual Sassafras or may contain the distilled portion of it.
Truth be told that study involved lab rats being injected with large amounts of it 60 plus years ago .
Simultaneously it’s also being looked at as a cancer killer.
The leaves are powdered and turned into a thickener called File , a staple in Cajun cuisine
 Aside from traditional root beers and thinkehers , some of the traditional known uses are as a
1. Blood purifier
2. Natural pain reliever
3. Anti-inflammatory effects
4. Promotes kidney function
5. Skin cleanser
6. Aids in digestion
7. Supports respiratory health
8. Natural fever reducer
9. Reduces menstrual pain
10. Detoxifies the liver
11. Calms nervous tension
12. Boosts circulation
13. Combats parasites
14. Natural insect repellent
15. Fights infections
16. Aids in urinary tract health
17. Promotes healthy skin healing
18. Mild appetite stimulant
19. Promotes lymphatic drainage
20. Eases rheumatic pain
21. Relieves gas and bloating
22. Mouthwash alternative
23. Boosts mood
24. Promotes oral health
25. Soothes itchy skin
26. Helps with colic
27. Strengthens immunity
28. Alleviates fatigue
29. Supports heart health
30. Traditional tonic
Traditional Uses of Sassafras around the home are
1. Sassafras Tea (Root Bark Tea)
Used for: Blood purification, digestive issues, colds
1 teaspoon dried sassafras root bark
1.5 cups water
Instructions:
Bring water to a boil.
Add the root bark and reduce heat.
Simmer and add honey for taste
Strain and let cool slightly.
2. Sassafras Poultice (For Skin Irritations)
Used for: Eczema, wounds, bites, itching.
Crush fresh or dried sassafras leaves or bark.
Mix with warm water to make a paste.
Apply directly to the affected skin.
Cover with clean cloth and leave for 20 minutes.
Rinse gently. Use once or twice daily as needed.
3. Herbal Bath Soak
Used for: Skin health, stress relief, body detox.
Add a large handful of dried sassafras leaves or bark to a pot of boiling water.
Simmer for 20 minutes.
Strain and pour into bathwater.
Soak for 15–20 minutes.
4: Thickener  for gravy, sauces, and Gumbo‘s
Dry freshly harvested green leaves and powder
Add when a  natural thickening agent is needed.
5. Sassafras Tincture (Concentrated Liquid Extract)
Used for: Small internal doses for various ailments.
Fill a glass jar 1/3 full with dried sassafras root.
Fill the rest with vodka (at least 40% alcohol).
Seal and let sit in a dark place for 4–6 weeks, shaking occasionally.
Strain and store in a dark bottle.
Take 5–10 drops in water up to 2 times a day when needed.
6. Sassafras-Infused Oil (For Topical Use)
Used for: Massage oil for pain, skin healing.
Place crushed leaves in a jar and cover with olive oil.
Let sit for 2 weeks in a sunny window.
Strain and use as massage oil or balm base.
Always use sassafras in moderation, avoid long-term or high-dose use, and consult with a healthcare professional if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications.