Saponin

Saponins are glycosides of steroids, steroid alkaloids (steroids with a nitrogen function) or triterpenes found in plants, especialy in the plant skins where they form a waxy protective coating. They dissolve in water to form a soapy froth. Saponins are believed to be usefull in the human diet for controlling cholesterol.

Saponins have been identified in:

• Digitalis (as digitonin )
• Grape skin[1]
• Olives
• Panax (as ginsenoside)
• Quillaja saponaria (member of the Rosaceae family)
• Soybeans
• Yucca
• Quinoa
• Soapberry (member of the Sapindaceae family)

The saponin QS21 is being investigated for possible beneficial effects on the immune system.

External links

• Quillaja Saponins
• Saponin In Wine - The Latest Discovery - 11-Sep-2003