Sassafras Leaf

Bulk Herbs: Sassafras Leaf
Sassafras albidum

Format: C/S

Size: 1 oz package

Origin: USA

Sassafras is a sturdy tree found in the bayous of Louisiana. When the tree is young, its leaves are shaped like “mittens,” sometimes with two “thumbs.” As the tree matures, sometimes reaching a height of 100 feet (30 meters) and a trunk diameter of up to 6 feet (200 cm), the leaves grow more rounded and free of indentations. Cajun cuisine uses sassafras leaf to make file (FEE-lay), the seasoning and thickening agent for Gumbo. The early Cajuns learned to use file from the Choctaw Indians of the Gulf coast, who evidently used it to thicken soups.

The leaf is primarily used to thicken and to season. It should be simmered gently and never boiled. For convenience, it may be used as a tea.

Sassafras leaf is traditionally used as a thickening and flavoring agent in Gumbo and other Cajun sauces and soups. The leaves have a lightly spicy and pleasantly aromatic scent and flavor. The fresh young leaves are used in salads.

NOTE: The actual analysis of the leaf found as little as 0.09 mg of safrole per cup of sassafras tea, or 99.95% less than reports have found. Later research reported by Dr. Jim Duke found that if all the safrole in the leaf leached into a cup of tea, it would yield about 3 milligrams of safrole, or 95% less than the recommended maximum. Sassafras should not be used while pregnant and should not be used for extended periods. Its moderate to liberal use in soup and sauces is fine.

Magically, Sassafras is ruled by Jupiter and Fire. It can be used in spells for healing or to attract money. Fast money spells especially benefit from this incredibly little herb!

Keywords: Healing, Money

For educational purposes, this information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.