Are there any side effects of drinking sarsaparilla soda?

Does sarsaparilla soda have side effects?

For most healthy adults, a can of sarsaparilla soda is like any sweet soft drink. The main drawbacks are sugar and, for some people, stomach upset. Most research on sarsaparilla is about the root as a supplement, not the soda, and the pages we read do not give safety information for sarsaparilla soda specifically. WebMD says the FDA considers sarsaparilla a natural flavoring for foods and drinks.

What are the known effects of the herb?

• WebMD lists an increased need to urinate and an upset stomach as the most common side effects, and notes that serious allergic reactions are rare but can happen.
• PeaceHealth cites a German monograph reporting possible stomach upset and short-term kidney irritation.

Who should be careful?

• Pregnant or breastfeeding: PeaceHealth says sarsaparilla should not be taken during pregnancy or breastfeeding, and WebMD says it is not known to be safe.
• Kidney or liver problems: WebMD advises talking to a provider first.
• People on diuretics (water pills): WebMD says to discuss it with your provider.
• People taking digoxin: PeaceHealth lists a potential interaction.
• Allergy to sarsaparilla or Smilax plants.

What about the soda itself?

• Check the label: sugar, caffeine and flavoring vary by brand. Many sarsaparilla sodas use artificial flavoring rather than the root, so the herb dose may be tiny, but this is not measured on the pages we read.
• Large amounts of any sugary soda are a poor choice for teeth and weight.

The FDA has not reviewed sarsaparilla supplements for safety and effectiveness. This page is general information, not medical advice; ask your doctor or pharmacist about your own situation.