Saponins are a class of compounds with surface active properties, usually found in natural plants. They are molecules with hydrophilic and hydrophobic groups that can reduce the surface tension of liquids, allowing water to mix better with oils. Saponins can be used in products such as detergents, soaps, shampoos, and conditioners, and can play a role in foaming, cleaning, and degrading oils. Common saponins include saponin, ferulic saponin, and persica saponin, which are widely used in personal care products, cleaning products, and medicine. Due to its natural, environmentally friendly and effective characteristics, saponins have been widely welcomed in the market.
Classification
- Plant saponins: mainly derived from plants, such as licorice, bitter tea, etc., commonly found in beans, tomatoes, onions and other plants.
- Animal saponins: mainly derived from animals, especially in fish and crustaceans.
- Synthetic saponins: saponins synthesized by chemical synthesis methods, including synthetic epididymoethanol sulfate substances.
Benefits of Saponins for Human Health
- Promote Digestion: Saponins help promote a healthy digestive system, helping to eliminate stomach upset and indigestion.
- Antioxidant Effect: Saponins are rich in antioxidants, which can help neutralize free radicals and slow down cell aging.
- Lower Cholesterol: Saponins can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Immune Enhancement: Saponins have immune system-boosting effects, helping to prevent colds and other illnesses.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effect: Saponins have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation and pain.
- Improve Skin Health: Saponins can cleanse the skin, help keep it healthy and prevent the occurrence of acne and other skin diseases.
Application of Saponins
- Cleaning agent: Saponin has good decontamination ability and can be used as an ingredient in cleaning products such as laundry detergent and dishwashing liquid, which can easily remove stains on clothes and utensils.
- Personal care products: Saponin can be used to make personal care products such as shampoo, shower gel, hand soap, etc., which has a mild cleaning effect and does not irritate the skin.
- Medical use: Saponin has certain antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects and can be used to treat skin diseases such as eczema and acne.
- Nutritional health products: Saponin can be used as an ingredient in health products, which has antioxidant and lipid-lowering effects and is beneficial to health.
Reference
- Liao, Yuyao, et al. Saponin surfactants used in drug delivery systems: A new application for natural medicine components. International journal of pharmaceutics 2021, 603: 120709.
Alfa Chemistry offers a wide range of saponins that are raw materials that can be added to functional foods or used as dietary supplements. Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions.
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