Is Smilax poisonous to humans?
While Smilax is not toxic to people or animals—in fact in many parts of the world it is used as a food plant—we don’t recommend eating it yourself unless you have had expert guidance in how to identify and use it. Some laboratory studies have identified that smilax species contain saponins, flavonoids, and phytosterols, which may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties, in theory, could help with skin conditions associated with inflammation or oxidative stress.