What is Sassafras Root Bark?

Sassafras Root Bark is the cut and sifted root bark of Sassafras albidum, the iconic aromatic tree of eastern North America in the laurel family (Lauraceae). This is the same source plant as our Sassafras Bark Powder, in the larger-piece cut-and-sifted format. We carry it as a botanical for traditional and historical interest.

About the plant

Each sassafras tree can bear three distinct leaf shapes: oval, mitten-shaped, and three-lobed. The dried young leaves become file powder, the traditional Louisiana Creole gumbo thickener. Sassafras root bark was the original primary flavor of American root beer until 1960, when the FDA prohibited safrole, the tree's characteristic aromatic compound, as a food additive. Sassafras root bark contains safrole; we offer it for its botanical and historical significance only.

Related herbs

• Sassafras Bark Powder — the ground format.

Sassafras Root Bark: form & sizes

We carry Sassafras Root Bark as cut and sifted root bark, sold by weight in sizes from 1 oz to 1 lb. We make no health or therapeutic claims.

Storage

Store Sassafras Root Bark in an airtight container, away from heat, light, and humidity, to preserve its color and aroma.

Sassafras Root Bark at a glance

Botanical name

Sassafras albidum

Family

Lauraceae

Native region

eastern United States and Canada

Plant part

root bark

Notable compound

Safrole (banned as a food additive in 1960)

Sold as

Botanical for traditional and historical use

Form

cut and sifted root bark

Sizes

1 oz to 1 lb