The name of the Sassafras albidum tree is frequently shortened to sassafras, although it is sometimes alternatively known as the ague tree or cinnamon wood. Native to sandy soils of North America, the species is often harvested for use as fence posts, cabinetry, and furniture.

The roots of ague trees contain oil that can be extracted for human benefit. In fact, ague tree oil was once the key ingredient of root beer. However, large doses of the oil may have narcotic properties. Today, the oil is most frequently employed by the perfume industry, which frequently utilizes the substance to scent soaps. The bark of the root can also be used to make a soothing tea.

Typically a small tree, in the northern parts of its range the ague tree is particularly shrub-like and does not generally grow taller than 40 feet in height. A characteristic trait of the species is that multiple leaf shapes, entire, two-lobed, and three-lobed, can be found on a single bright green twig. The tree also features deeply furrowed bark and clusters of yellow flowers in the spring, followed by blue berries.