io6 



with a few fibers, and comes in compact cylindrical bundles 2 or 3 

 feet long. 



Brazilian sarsaparilla (Rio Negro, Para, or Lisbon sarsaparilla). 

 Considered to be the finest variety. Dark brown or blackish-brown, 

 with a thick cortical layer and pith, and a narrow, woody zone. 



(6) Pasty starch in a paste. 



FIG. 28. Smilax officinalis Portion of vine and rhizome. 



Jamaica or red sarsaparilla is of a reddish color externally; it is 

 said to be the richest in extractive and to contain the best quality of 

 starch. The name bearded sarsaparilla has been applied to it, from 

 the numerous fibers attached. 



Mexican sarsaparilla is deeply wrinkled, and brownish-gray from 



