Common Sassafras (Sassafras albidum)

Common Sassafras, also known by its other common names like ague tree, cinnamon wood, or smelling-stick, and scientifically as Sassafras albidum, is a native North American tree with a rich history and a variety of traditional uses. This remarkable tree offers a distinctive aroma, unique mitten-shaped leaves, and a fascinating background that we’ll explore in detail.

This comprehensive guide will cover everything from identifying Common Sassafras in the wild to understanding its historical significance and traditional applications. We’ll delve into its unique properties, and we encourage you to keep reading to discover the full potential of this often-overlooked tree. We’ll discuss Sassafras albidum identification, traditional sassafras uses, and safety information.

What is Common Sassafras?

Common Sassafras (Sassafras albidum) is a deciduous tree belonging to the Lauraceae family, which also includes cinnamon, bay laurel, and avocado. It’s a fascinating species with a long history of use by humans, valued for its aromatic properties and distinct appearance. This section will delve into the scientific classification, historical context, and natural habitat of this unique tree.

Common name	Common Sassafras, Ague Tree, Cinnamon Wood, Mitten Tree, Smelling-Stick, Saloop
Botanical name	Sassafras albidum
Family	Lauraceae
Genus	Sassafras
Species	albidum
Origin	Eastern North America
Native	USA, Canada
Life cycle	Perennial
Plant type	Deciduous Tree/Shrub
Hardiness zone	4-9 (USDA)
Sunlight	Full Sun to Partial Shade
Maintenance	Low
Water	Moderate; Drought-tolerant once established
Drainage	Well-Drained
Spacing	15-25 ft. (for trees); closer for thickets
Flowering period	Spring (April-May)
Height	30-60 ft. (potentially taller in ideal conditions); can be shrubby (5-15ft)
Growth rate	Moderate to Fast
Flower color	Yellow-green (small, inconspicuous)
Stem color	Green (young twigs); Reddish-brown (mature bark)
Flower benefit	Attracts pollinators (though not showy)
Leaf benefit	Unique mitten-shaped leaves, vibrant fall color
Garden style	Woodland Garden, Naturalistic Planting, Wildlife Garden
Uses	Ornamental, Traditional (file powder from leaves), Woodworking (limited)
Soil pH	Acidic (5.0-6.5)
Soil type	Prefers Loam or Sandy Loam, adaptable
Propagation	Seeds (require cold stratification), Suckers, Cuttings (less reliable)
Pest & Disease	Generally resistant; may be affected by Japanese Beetles, Sassafras Borer, Leaf Spot, Laurel Wilt (serious)
Aromatic Properties	All parts highly aromatic (root beer scent)
Safrole Content	High in root bark, low in leaves

Historical and Cultural Significance

Common Sassafras has a deep-rooted history in North America, particularly among Indigenous peoples. Native American tribes utilized various parts of the tree for medicinal, culinary, and practical purposes. For instance, the Cherokee used sassafras as a blood purifier, while the Iroquois employed it to treat a variety of ailments, from colds to skin conditions. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2010) documented the extensive use of Sassafras albidum in traditional medicine across different Native American cultures.
Early European settlers quickly adopted many of these uses, and sassafras became a significant export commodity to Europe. It was widely believed to be a cure-all, used to treat everything from syphilis to scurvy. While many of these early medicinal claims have since been debunked, the historical importance of sassafras is undeniable. It played a role in early American commerce and even found its way into popular beverages like root beer.

Geographic Distribution and Habitat

• Common Sassafras is native to eastern North America, ranging from southern Maine and Ontario, Canada, west to Iowa, and south to Florida and eastern Texas. It thrives in a variety of habitats, including:
  • Open Woodlands: Sassafras often grows along the edges of forests and in clearings.
  • Fields and Meadows: It can colonize abandoned fields and pastures.
  • Roadsides and Disturbed Areas: It’s a relatively adaptable species that can tolerate disturbed soils.
  • Well-Drained Soils: While it can tolerate a range of soil types, it prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils.
  • Sunlight: Sassafras prefers full sun to partial shade.
• The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) provides detailed range maps showing the distribution of Sassafras albidum across North America. These maps confirm its prevalence in the eastern and central parts of the continent.

Identifying Common Sassafras

Accurate identification of Common Sassafras is crucial, especially if considering any traditional uses. Mistaking it for other trees could have unintended consequences. This section provides a detailed guide to identifying sassafras based on its unique characteristics.

• Leaf Morphology: The Mitten-Shaped Identifier
  The leaves of Common Sassafras are perhaps its most distinctive feature. They exhibit a unique polymorphism, meaning they come in three different shapes on the same tree:
  • Unlobed: Oval or elliptical in shape.
  • Mitten-Shaped (One Lobe): Resembling a mitten with a thumb.
  • Three-Lobed: Having three distinct lobes, resembling a trident.
• This variation in leaf shape is relatively rare among trees, making it a key identification marker. The leaves are typically 3-7 inches long and 2-4 inches wide, with smooth margins and a bright green color in the summer, turning to vibrant shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall.
• Bark Characteristics: Texture and Color Changes with Age
  The bark of sassafras changes significantly as the tree matures:
  • Young Trees: The bark is relatively smooth and greenish-brown.
  • Mature Trees: The bark becomes thick, deeply furrowed, and reddish-brown, often with a cinnamon-like hue. The ridges are irregular and can form diamond-shaped patterns.
• These bark characteristics, combined with the leaf morphology, help distinguish sassafras from other trees with similar growth habits.
• Twig and Bud Examination: Winter Identification Tips
  Even in winter, when the leaves are absent, sassafras can be identified by examining its twigs and buds:
  • Twigs: The twigs are slender, green, and often have a slight upward curve. They are also aromatic when scratched or broken.
  • Buds: The buds are greenish and relatively large, especially the terminal bud (at the tip of the twig). They are ovoid in shape and slightly fuzzy.
• These winter characteristics are particularly helpful for botanists and naturalists conducting winter tree identification surveys.
• Aromatic Properties: The Distinctive Sassafras Scent
  One of the most reliable ways to identify sassafras is by its distinctive aroma. All parts of the tree, including the leaves, twigs, bark, and roots, contain aromatic oils that release a characteristic scent when crushed or scratched. This scent is often described as:
  • Root beer-like
  • Citrusy
  • Spicy
  • Sweet
• This aroma is due to the presence of various volatile compounds, including safrole, which is the primary contributor to the characteristic sassafras scent.
• Size and Growth Habit: From Shrub to Tree
  Sassafras can vary in size depending on its growing conditions and age. It can range from a small, multi-stemmed shrub to a medium-sized tree:
  • Shrub Form: Often found in younger stands or understory growth, typically 5-15 feet tall.
  • Tree Form: In optimal conditions, sassafras can reach heights of 30-60 feet, with a trunk diameter of 1-2 feet. Exceptionally large trees can reach even greater heights.
• Sassafras often forms colonies or thickets due to its ability to spread through root suckers. This means that new shoots can emerge from the roots of existing trees, creating a dense cluster of sassafras plants.

Traditional and Modern Uses of Common Sassafras

The history of Common Sassafras is intertwined with its various uses, spanning from traditional Native American practices to modern culinary applications. However, it’s crucial to understand the complexities and regulations surrounding some of these uses, particularly concerning the compound safrole.

• Historical Uses in Native American Cultures
  Native American tribes across the eastern United States held sassafras in high regard, utilizing it for a wide range of purposes:
  • Medicinal Uses: Different tribes used sassafras to treat various ailments, including:
    • Fevers: Infusions of the root bark were used to reduce fevers.
    • Skin Conditions: Poultices and washes were applied to treat wounds, sores, and skin irritations.
    • Digestive Issues: Teas were used to soothe upset stomachs and relieve diarrhea.
    • Blood Purifier: Sassafras was believed to cleanse the blood and improve overall health.
    • Pain Relief: Used to alleviate pain from rheumatism and other conditions.
  • Culinary Uses:
    • Flavoring Agent: The roots and bark were used to flavor food and beverages.
    • Thickening Agent: Powdered leaves (file powder) were used to thicken soups and stews.
  • Other Uses:
    • Insect Repellent: The aromatic oils were believed to repel insects.
    • Dye: The roots and bark were used to create a yellow dye.
    • Wood: The wood was used for various purposes, including crafting tools and building materials.
• The ethnobotanical literature provides extensive documentation of these traditional uses, highlighting the importance of sassafras in Native American culture and daily life.
• Traditional Culinary Applications: Root Beer and Beyond
  Sassafras was a key ingredient in traditional root beer, giving the beverage its distinctive flavor. The root bark was boiled to extract its aromatic oils, which were then combined with other ingredients like sugar, spices, and water to create a refreshing drink. However, this practice changed significantly in the mid-20th century due to concerns about safrole.
  Beyond root beer, sassafras was also used in other culinary applications:
  • Teas: Sassafras tea was a popular beverage, often consumed for its purported health benefits.
  • Flavoring: It was used to flavor candies, jellies, and other food products.
• The Role of Safrole: Understanding the Controversy
  Safrole is a naturally occurring compound found in sassafras, particularly in the root bark. It’s responsible for much of the tree’s characteristic aroma and flavor. However, research in the 1960s raised concerns about the potential carcinogenicity of safrole. Studies on laboratory animals showed that high doses of safrole could cause liver cancer.
  As a result of these findings, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) banned the use of safrole and sassafras oil as food additives in 1960. This effectively ended the use of sassafras in commercially produced root beer and other food products. It’s important to emphasize the following:
  • Dosage Matters: The studies that linked safrole to cancer involved very high doses, far exceeding typical human consumption levels.
  • Traditional Use: Native Americans and others had used sassafras for centuries without reported adverse effects. This suggests that moderate, traditional use may not pose the same risks as high-dose exposure.
  • Current Regulations: The FDA regulations remain in place. Commercially sold products labeled as “sassafras” typically use safrole-free extracts or alternative flavorings.
• File Powder: A Culinary Staple in Creole Cuisine
  File powder, made from the dried and ground leaves of the sassafras tree, remains a significant ingredient in Creole cuisine, particularly in Louisiana. It’s used as a thickening and flavoring agent in gumbo, a traditional stew. Importantly:
  • Leaf vs. Root: File powder is made from the leaves of the sassafras tree, which contain significantly lower levels of safrole than the root bark.
  • FDA Regulation: The FDA allows the use of file powder because the safrole content is considered low enough to not pose a significant risk.
  • Culinary Significance: File powder adds a unique flavor and texture to gumbo, and it’s considered an essential ingredient by many Creole cooks.

Woodworking and Craft Applications Sassafras wood is known for being lightweight, durable and rot-resistant, with the following properties: Lightweight Durable Somewhat soft Easy to work with Aromatic.

Sassafras wood is sometimes used for:

• Small boats
• Fence posts
• Furniture

Safety and Regulations Surrounding Common Sassafras

Understanding the safety considerations and regulations surrounding Common Sassafras is paramount, especially given the concerns about safrole. This section provides a detailed overview of these issues.

• Understanding Safrole and its Potential Risks
  As previously mentioned, safrole is a phenylpropene, a type of organic compound found in various plants, including sassafras. The concern over safrole stems from studies conducted in the 1960s that showed a link between high doses of safrole and liver cancer in laboratory animals. These studies, primarily conducted on rats, involved administering safrole in concentrations far exceeding what humans would typically consume through traditional uses of sassafras.
  The National Toxicology Program (NTP), part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, lists safrole as “reasonably anticipated to be a human carcinogen” based on sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in animal studies. However, it’s crucial to understand the context of this classification:
  • Animal Studies: The evidence is primarily based on animal studies, and the applicability to humans at typical exposure levels is still debated.
  • High Doses: The doses used in these studies were significantly higher than those found in traditional sassafras preparations.
  • Route of Administration: The way safrole was administered in these studies (often through injection) may not reflect typical human consumption patterns.
• Despite these caveats, the potential risks associated with safrole cannot be ignored, and regulatory bodies have taken action to limit human exposure.
• FDA Regulations and Restrictions
  The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) plays a central role in regulating the use of sassafras and safrole in food and beverages. Here’s a summary of the key regulations:
  • 1960 Ban: The FDA banned the use of sassafras oil and safrole as food additives in 1960. This ban was a direct result of the studies linking safrole to liver cancer in animals.
  • Safrole-Free Extracts: The FDA allows the use of safrole-free sassafras extracts in food products. These extracts are produced by removing the safrole from the sassafras oil.
  • File Powder Exception: As mentioned earlier, the FDA permits the use of file powder (made from sassafras leaves) because of its low safrole content.
  • Dietary Supplements: The FDA regulates dietary supplements differently from food additives. Sassafras-containing dietary supplements are subject to less stringent regulations, but manufacturers are still responsible for ensuring the safety of their products.
• It’s important for consumers to be aware of these regulations and to choose sassafras products carefully, opting for safrole-free extracts or file powder when available.
• Safe Handling and Consumption Guidelines
  Given the complexities surrounding safrole, it’s essential to follow safe handling and consumption guidelines if you choose to use sassafras:
  • Avoid Root Bark: Due to its high safrole content, the root bark of sassafras should be avoided for internal consumption.
  • Use File Powder Sparingly: While file powder is generally considered safe, it should be used in moderation.
  • Purchase from Reputable Sources: If purchasing sassafras products, choose reputable suppliers that adhere to FDA regulations.
  • Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you have any concerns about using sassafras, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult a healthcare professional before using it.
  • External Use: External use of sassafras (e.g., in topical preparations) is generally considered safer than internal consumption, but caution is still advised.
• Alternatives to Sassafras for Similar Flavors
  If you’re looking for the distinctive flavor of sassafras without the concerns about safrole, there are several alternatives you can consider:
  • Safrole-Free Sassafras Extract: This is the most direct substitute, providing the characteristic flavor without the safrole.
  • Anise: Anise has a licorice-like flavor that can mimic some aspects of sassafras.
  • Star Anise: Similar to anise, but with a stronger, more intense flavor.
  • Fennel: Fennel also has a licorice-like flavor, but it’s milder and sweeter than anise.
  • Combination of Spices: Experimenting with a blend of spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg can create a flavor profile reminiscent of sassafras.
• These alternatives allow you to enjoy the culinary aspects of sassafras without the potential risks associated with safrole.

Growing and Caring for Common Sassafras

While the sale of sassafras for consumption might be regulated, the tree itself is still a viable addition to some gardens, within legal planting zones.

• Propagation Methods: Seeds, Cuttings, and Suckers
  • Seeds: Collect seeds in the fall after the fruit (drupes) ripen and turn dark blue. The seeds require a period of cold stratification (exposure to cold, moist conditions) to break dormancy. This can be achieved by storing them in a refrigerator in moist peat moss or sand for 90-120 days. Sow the stratified seeds in the spring. Germination rates can be variable.
  • Cuttings: Softwood cuttings (taken from new growth in the spring or early summer) can be rooted, although success rates may be lower than with seeds. Use a rooting hormone and provide a humid environment.
  • Suckers: The easiest and most reliable method of propagation is to transplant suckers that arise from the roots of existing trees. Carefully dig up the suckers, ensuring you get a good portion of the root system, and replant them in a suitable location. This is best done in the dormant season (late fall or early spring).

Soil and Sunlight Requirements

Soil: Sassafras prefers well-drained, acidic soil (pH 5.0-6.5) but will adapt to various types. Sandy loam or loamy soils are ideal. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage.

Sunlight: Plant in full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) to partial shade. Trees grown in full sun will have a more compact growth habit and better fall color.

Watering and Fertilization Needs

• Watering: Water newly planted trees regularly to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once established, sassafras is relatively drought-tolerant, but it will benefit from supplemental watering during extended dry periods.
• Fertilization: Sassafras generally doesn’t require heavy fertilization. A light application of a balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in the spring can promote growth, but avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to excessive leaf growth and reduced hardiness.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Pruning: Prune young trees to establish a strong central leader and remove any crossing or damaged branches. Mature trees require minimal pruning, mainly to remove dead or diseased wood. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
• Maintenance: Sassafras is a relatively low-maintenance tree. Monitor for pests and diseases, and address any issues promptly.

Pest and Disease Management

• Sassafras is generally resistant to serious pests and diseases, but it can occasionally be affected by:
  • Japanese Beetles: These beetles can skeletonize the leaves. Hand-picking or using insecticides may be necessary for severe infestations.
  • Sassafras Borer: This insect can bore into the trunk and branches, causing dieback. Prune out infested branches and maintain tree vigor to prevent infestations.
  • Leaf Spot Diseases: Various fungal leaf spot diseases can occur, but they are usually not serious. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering to prevent these diseases.
  • Laurel Wilt: This is a serious disease, spread by the Redbay ambrosia beetle, that can affect many members of the laurel family. At this time (February 2025) there is no cure. Maintaining tree vigor is important.

Where to Find Common Sassafras

Finding Common Sassafras depends on your intentions. Are you looking to identify it in its natural habitat, harvest it ethically (where legal and for permitted uses), or purchase sassafras-related products? This section provides guidance for each scenario.

• Identifying Sassafras in the Wild
  As discussed in the “Identifying Common Sassafras” section, key features to look for include:
  • Mitten-Shaped Leaves: The unique three-leaf shapes (unlobed, mitten-shaped, and three-lobed) are a primary identifier.
  • Aromatic Scent: Crushing a leaf or scratching a twig will release the characteristic root beer-like aroma.
  • Bark: Mature trees have thick, furrowed, reddish-brown bark.
  • Habitat: Look for sassafras in open woodlands, fields, roadsides, and disturbed areas within its native range (eastern North America).
• Consult field guides, online resources, and local botanical experts to enhance your identification skills. Joining a local nature walk or foraging group can also be a great way to learn from experienced individuals.
• Ethical Harvesting Considerations
  If you intend to harvest any part of the sassafras tree, it’s crucial to do so ethically and legally:
  • Obtain Permission: Always obtain permission from the landowner before harvesting sassafras on private property.
  • Know the Regulations: Be aware of any local, state, or federal regulations regarding the harvesting of sassafras. As mentioned earlier, there may be restrictions due to safrole concerns.
  • Sustainable Harvesting: Practice sustainable harvesting techniques to ensure the long-term health of the sassafras population:
    • Don’t Overharvest: Take only what you need and leave plenty of plants behind to regenerate.
    • Avoid Damaging the Tree: Use sharp, clean tools to make clean cuts and avoid damaging the main trunk or roots.
    • Harvest from Healthy Plants: Choose healthy, vigorous plants for harvesting, and avoid plants that show signs of stress or disease.
    • Consider the Ecosystem: Be mindful of the surrounding ecosystem and avoid disturbing other plants or wildlife.
• Finding Reputable Suppliers (if applicable)
  If you’re looking to purchase sassafras products (e.g., file powder, safrole-free extracts), it’s important to find reputable suppliers:
  • Specialty Food Stores: Some specialty food stores, particularly those specializing in Creole or Southern cuisine, may carry file powder.
  • Online Retailers: Online retailers offer a wider selection of sassafras products, but it’s crucial to choose reputable sellers with positive customer reviews. Look for products that are clearly labeled as “safrole-free” if you’re seeking extracts. Check for third party verification of this claim.
  • Local Herb Shops: Some local herb shops or apothecaries may carry sassafras products, but be sure to inquire about their sourcing and safrole content.
  • Read Labels Carefully: Always read product labels carefully to ensure that you’re purchasing the desired product and that it meets your safety expectations.