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Saponins are chemical compounds of plant origin, classified as glycosides, i.e. substances that are derived from sugars. The name comes from the Latin word “sapo” which means “soap”. This is due to the foaming properties of saponins. They have an unusual specification and a wide range of applications. They accelerate the digestion of fats, have a diuretic and anti-inflammatory effect. These are compounds commonly used in medicine. However, they can be dangerous because some of them are highly poisonous.
Where are the saponins?
Plants are the primary source of saponins. The highest concentration of this substance is found in: licorice, soapwort, calendula, horse chestnut, digitalis, grapevines, olives, ginseng, soybeans, juce, aloe, quinoa (you can order quinoa by weight by Pestka at medonetmarket.pl) – choose a package of 500 g or 1 kg) and starworm.
Steroid saponins
Steroid saponins have been used in medicine. They are a component of expectorant and diuretic preparations. They can also be found in the prescription of anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antibacterial drugs, as well as in protozoal and antifungal drugs. Saponins affect the human body by increasing the amount of digestive juices produced in the stomach, bile, and the so-called intestinal juice. Thanks to this, removing toxins from our body is even easier. These chemicals also increase the amount of protective mucus. Some studies have suggested that saponins may lower bad cholesterol. Thanks to them, the metabolism of fats is also accelerated, and the absorption of nutrients that we provide to the body when eating a meal is facilitated. Saponins are also diuretics. Steroid glycosides are also taken for expectorant purposes and are found in cardiac medications. These chemicals are foaming, so combining them with water produces a foam. Saponins are also used in the synthesis of sex hormones such as testosterone and corticosteroids. They are used as a form of supplementation for athletes. Among the compounds selected are those that can affect the level of testosterone in the body. Saponins are found in dietary supplements and come mostly from soapwort root, licorice, fenugreek, and plants such as Tribulus terrestris and sarsaparilla.
Side effects of steroid saponins
Steroid saponins have many benefits, yet they can cause side effects. The most dangerous of these is hemolysis of red blood cells. As a result of this phenomenon, defective blood cells release hemoglobin into our blood plasma, and thus – it can contribute to anemia and seriously damage the bone marrow. It is worth realizing that saponins applied in large amounts are toxic and can even lead to paralysis of the brain and spine. This chemical can also damage the heart muscle and our respiratory system. Therefore, you should be careful when using sports supplementation. It is worth knowing that saponins can be found in our food. This is due to the fact that they are an ingredient of animal feed. Then they can get into meat or milk. However, in this form they are not harmful to humans. Saponins are found not only in herbs, but also in coffee, tea, halva, asparagus, beetroot, spinach and oats, i.e. in well-known products. These are substances that are difficult to digest by our digestive tract. As a result, inflammation of the iliac intestine can occur. Steroid saponins are also inhibitors of certain enzymes, which explains the appearance of gastrointestinal disorders. There are situations in which they can even cause seizures or paralysis of the limbs, leading to a condition that directly threatens human life. Importantly, the food is thermally processed. During this process, the saponins are partially deactivated. Medicine, however, knows cases of poisoning. It happened through the means of the weed that grows in the cereals – it is the tares. The plant’s alkaloids must have made their way into the grain that had not been thoroughly cleaned, yet was ground.
The use of saponins in cosmetics
Saponins have also found their application in cosmetics. They are included in creams and lotions because they have anti-inflammatory properties, reduce swelling, and improve blood circulation and oxygenation of tissues. Thanks to this, we can enjoy a nice and healthy appearance of our skin. Saponins reduce the surface tension as they produce foaming aqueous solutions. It is good for the skin. Its permeability increases, and thus – other nutrients are better absorbed. Saponins are also found in soaps, shower and bath gels, make-up remover cosmetics, tonics and mouth wash gels. These chemicals are also found in laundry detergents because they are great foaming.
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