Saponin - Definition and Overview

Saponins are a class of glucosides found in plants. They dissolve in water to form a soapy froth.

Saponins have been identified in:

• Digitalis (as digitonin)
• Grape skin[1] (http://www.bbr.com/GB/db/news-item/525?ID=null&first_news_F=21)
• Olives
• Panax (as ginsenoside)
• Quillaja saponaria (member of the Rosaceae family)
• Soybeans
• Yucca

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

External links

• Quillaja Saponins (http://www.desertkingchile.cl/03%20QUILLAJA%20SAPONINS.htm)
• Saponin In Wine - The Latest Discovery - 11-Sep-2003 (http://www.bbr.com/GB/db/news-item/525?ID=null&first_news_F=21)