Native Habitat
|
|
Source Reference #3 |
The sassafras tree is native in Eastern North America from Maine to Ontario and
Michigan then as far South as Florida and Texas (1).
Optimal Growing Conditions
This tree grows well in rich, well-drained soil (1). It grows in
thickets, rich woods, roadsides, and forest openings (2).
Economic Importance
Tea, dye, lumber, and fuel are made from the outer bark and roots
(4). The roots are also used to flavor soups and stews. Oil
from this tree is also used in perfumes, soaps, lotions, and to flavor
medicine (3).
Ethnobotanical and Cultural Information
 |
|
Source Reference #3 |
The Sassafras tree has a multitude of uses and was quite popular with the Native
Americans and is still widely regarded today for it's medicinal
values. Oil from the
Sassafras tree has been used as an antiseptic in dentistry, a pain killer, and been used
to externally treat lice and insect bites (2). Oil from the tree was once used in soaps,
perfumery, toothpaste, and early root beer (2, 3). Large doses of the oil can cause dilated
pupils, vomiting, stupor, kidney and liver damage, and skin irritation
(2). Oil from the
Sassafras tree has also been shown to be mildly carcinogenic and has been banned from use
in foods in the United States (1). Tea is often made from the roots for a variety of purposes including
treating gastrointestinal complaints, colds, kidney ailments, and
rheumatism (2). The bark was
commonly used in many cultures to make a permanent orange dye (4).
Fascinating Facts
The Sassafras tree is often referred to as the ornamental tree because of it's oddly
shaped leaves (4).
It attracts a variety of birds and is a favorite among birdwatchers. The
fruits of the tree are eaten by songbirds, Bobwhites, wild turkeys, and Black
bears (3).
The growing plant has also been shown to
repel mosquitoes and other insects, except the Japanese beetle, the main
predator (2).
Other interesting sites
|
|
Source Reference #5 |
Plants for a Future
The Assategue Naturalist
The Tree with Red
Mittens
Ohio's Trees
Sassafras albidum photos used with the permission from
The Ohio Division of Forestry.
Works Cited
1. Davidson, T. Sassafras. 10/22/01 http://www.findarticles.com/cf_dls/g2603/006/2603000644/p1/article.jhtml
2. Jackson, d. Sassafras. 10/22/01 http://www.altnature.com/gallery/Sassafras.htm
3. Sassafras. 10/22/01 http://www.hcs.ohio-state.edu/ODNR/Education/ohiotrees/sassafras.htm 4. Sassafras. 10/22/01
http://www.baylink.org/wpc/sasafras.html 5. Sassafras. 10/22/01 http://www.assateague.com/sass.html
6. Sassafras. 10/22/01 http://depts.clemson.edu/extfor/publications/bul117/Sassafras_albidum.htm
7. Herb Information. 10/22/01 http://www.holisticonline.com/Herbal-Med/_Herbs/h185.htm
|
Created by: Stacy Keith |
Edited by: Caitlin Jagger |
|
