Uses of Saponins

Saponins are a type of glycoside compound--organic molecules that contain a sugar as an integral part of their structure--that are found in plants and share a number of distinctive characteristics. Saponins are thought to be beneficial to humans in many ways, including enhancing the function of several organ systems and treating a variety of diseases and conditions.

Aspects

• Saponins get their name from the soapwort plant, a plant whose root was traditionally used as a soap. The soapwort plant foams when combined with water, and this characteristic is the common denominator for all plants that contain saponins. While most plants that contain saponins can be detrimental and even toxic to animals, they are considered especially beneficial to the digestive, cardiovascular, and immune systems of humans.

Sources

• Saponins are largely found in plants growing in temperate regions. These include legumes such as soybeans or peas; alfalfa; soapbark; soap root; members of the nightshade family of plants, including foxglove; wild yam; fenugreek; and ginseng.

Cardiovascular System Uses

• Ingesting saponins has been linked with a decrease in overall blood cholesterol and it is thought that they can contribute significantly to the prevention of arteriosclerosis. Saponins have been used in the treatment of a number of cardiovascular disorders and conditions, including varicose veins and thrombosis. One saponin, foxglove, is the basis of the heart medication Digitalis, and is reponsible for strengthening heart muscle contractions.

Digestive System Uses

• Saponins are thought to aid the absorption of minerals such as calcium and silicon and to facilitate and ease the process of digestion in general. Additionally, saponins are thought to encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria within the intestines by breaking down build-up lining the intestinal walls.

Immune System Uses

• Saponins are thought to contribute to the health and efficiency of the immune system by binding to germs and other pathogens as they enter they body. In this sense, they function as natural antibodies. Saponins are particularly effective when used to treat yeast and fungal infections and some research has shown that they can boost the effectiveness of vaccines when the two are administered together.