sassafras

sas·sa·fras

noun \ˈsas-ə-ˌfras\

Definition of SASSAFRAS

1

: a tall eastern North American tree (Sassafras albidum) of the laurel family (Lauraceae) with mucilaginous twigs and leaves

2

: the dried root bark of the sassafras formerly used as a diaphoretic and flavoring agent but now prohibited for use as a flavoring or food additive because of its carcinogenic properties