Stem: Contains a bitter principle used in Surinam as a diuretic, emmenagogue and tonic. Aromatic liquid from incised stem, called "huile de sassafras", resembles that of Ocotea longifolia.

Plant toxicity

Fruit: Utilized by the French Guiana Palikur as an intoxicant; toxic.
The stem yields an ingredient used in Orinoco (Venezuela) curare. In Brazil, oil exuded from the wood is used as a substitute for gasoline illuminating oil.

Robertt, A., et al.. Medicinal Plants of the Guianas (Guyana, Suriname, French Guyana)/Smithsonian NMNH. cited online: 17-08-2017