What is Sassafras (Sassafras Spp.)?
The genus Sassafras contains two main species, Sassafras albidum (Nutt.) Nees and Sassafras tzumu (Hemsl.) Hemsl. Although sassafras was used originally in Native American medicine, sassafras should not be used internally, as safrole found in sassafras oil and tea is carcinogenic (causes cancer). In addition, safrole is hepatotoxic (liver damaging). There is insufficient evidence in humans to support the use of sassafras for any indication.