Three-lobed sassafras leaf
Sassafras
Description: Sassafras is a small tree with brown, furrowed bark. The leaves come inthree shapes: an oval (one lobe); a mitten (two lobes); and a glove (three lobes).
Where found: Eastern US, west to eastern Texas, north to Illinois, east to New Hampshire.
Use: dig up the roots, peel them, and boil them to make a rootbeer-like tea.
WARNING: Safrole, which is the main component (75-80%) of sassafras essential oil, is now recognized by the United States Department of Agriculture as a potential carcinogen.
