Can "Old Man In The Ground" Be Used To Make Sasparilla?

My maternal grandfather claimed the root of an Oregon vine, "Old Man In The Ground" could be used to make sasparilla. I don't think he had ever done so himself, but he claimed his grandfather had done so. Does anyone have a recipe to make sasparilla from this vine? I don't even know if this version has to be distilled or how safe it is to drink. Your help is appreciated.