Common Name(s) | Sassafras | ||||
Scientific name | Sassafras albidum | ||||
Family | Lauraceae | ||||
Location/Vegetative Zone | Thicket | ||||
Flowering Period | May-June | ||||
Identifying Characteristics | A medium sized deciduous shrub tree |
Description
- A medium sized deciduous tree that can grow up to 60-80 feet tall.
- Native to the Eastern United States.
Edible Uses
- Safrole formerly used to flavor root beer
- Banned by FDA because of carcinogenic potential
- Roots steeped to make tea
- Lewaves and pith, dried and powdered, used as thickener in soup
Cultural Uses
- Safrole oil from roots and wood used to make fragrances
Sources
“Sassafras”. Drugs. Wolters Klewer Health. 9 August 2017. Web.
1,860 total views, 1 views today