Definition - What does Saponin mean?

Found in more than 100 various plant families, saponins are a particular class of chemical compounds that normally foam when exposed to aqueous solutions. This chemical compound is commonly used to protect the plant against different types of fungi and microbes. Because of their bitter taste, however, saponins may lower the palatability of the plant in some cases.

While commercial saponins are primarily extruded from the Quillaja saponaria and the Yucca schidigera, it is also possible to extract saponins from soapberry, soapbark, soaproot, soapwort, soybeans, and peas.

MaximumYield explains Saponin

When consumed by humans, saponin plants such as yucca, legumes, and beans have been shown to reduce bad cholesterol. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, saponin plants reduce bile acids from the stomach, hence lowering the risk of colon cancer. When ingested by humans, these plants have been shown to boost the body’s immunity, protecting against different types of bacteria and viruses. Because of its detergent properties, saponin extract is also used in facial cleansers, shampoos, creams and various types of cosmetics.

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