Sassafras, sometimes called white sassafras, is well known for its aromatic properties. The leaves and bark both have a slightly citrus scent, while the roots have a strong root-beer odor. It is from these roots that root beer was historically produced by early colonists. The roots were boiled with molasses, and then allowed to ferment, until a distinctive soft drink was produced. Sassafras tea is another popular drink that is steeped from the bark of the tree and served as a "soothing drink", or a "spring tonic". In England, the tea is mixed with milk and sugar to make saloop, a popular morning beverage.

Herbalists use sassafras for a variety of medicinal uses. It is said to have value as a stimulant, pain reliever, astringent and treatment for rheumatism. Skin eruptions may be bathed in an infusion from the leaves. Sassafras tonic has been used as a treatment for syphilis since the early 1600's. It is reported that chewing on the bark may help break the tobacco habit, however, ingestion of sassafras may cause vomiting and can be toxic if taken in large doses. Medicinal use of sassafras has declined in recent years because of the possibility that it may contain carcinogens (cancer-causing agents).

In addition to medicinal uses, sassafras wood, bark and roots produce an extract (oil of sassafras) that is useful in flavorings, or in perfumes and scented soaps. A yellow dye is also extracted from the trees. The crushed leaves were used by colonists to thicken soups and stews.

Sassafras wood is very durable and is used to make buckets, barrels, poles, posts, and crossties. It is also used in interior cabinetry.

White-tailed deer are known to browse on the twigs and leaves of sassafras trees, which are sometimes grown to restore depleted soils. The trees regenerate quickly after a disturbance and are early pioneers in old fields.

Sassafras is found throughout the eastern and southern United States and into Mexico. It ranges as far west as Texas and Iowa.

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