Of an estimated 25 ingredients in the original root beer formula, quillaia (also spelled “quillaja”) was likely not among them, reports ThoughtCo. The Los Angeles Times notes the ingredient was added later to increase the frothy foam that defines today’s beloved beverage. Quillaia is an extract from the inner bark of quillaia soapbark trees (per Puracy). The ingredient can also be found in puddings, frozen dairy products, baked goods, and body-care products including shampoos and lotions.

For root beer aficionados, that foamy pour is reason enough to embrace quillaia. But the extract has other benefits, according to WebMD, such as lowering cholesterol and even treating bronchitis. Root beer has been touted for medicinal value since its inception; one university project found advertising slogans encouraging readers to “Join Health and Cheer/Drink Hires Root beer.” The best root beer brands taste good, are alcohol-free, and include natural spices, roots, and herbs. That’s sufficient for a frothy “Cheers!”