Saponins - Action and Properties

Saponins are natural chemical compounds found in many plants, especially in seeds, roots and leaves. Their name comes from the Latin word "sapo," meaning soap, because saponins have the ability to form foam in water. These compounds are valued in both medicine and the food and cosmetic industries for their various biological properties, such as anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, immunostimulant and many others. In this article, we will discuss what saponins are, what properties they have, and what health benefits they can bring.

What Are Saponins?

Saponins are a group of triterpene or steroidal glycosides, which are characterized by their ability to form foam when dissolved in water. They consist of two parts: a sugar and an aglycone (non-sugar part), which is characteristic of glycosides. Saponins are widespread in nature, found in many plants such as soybeans, alfalfa, licorice root, ginseng and quinoa.

Saponins - Chemical Composition

Saponins are divided into two main groups depending on the structure of the aglycone:

• Triterpene saponins: They are found in legumes such as soybeans, alfalfa and licorice. They have a wide range of pharmacological uses, including anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
• Steroid saponins: They are found in plants such as ginseng and smilax root, and are known for their hormonal and adaptogenic properties.

Saponins - Action

Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial Properties

One of the most important properties of saponins is their ability to reduce inflammation. Triterpene saponins, such as those found in ginseng, exhibit anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting enzymes responsible for the production of inflammatory mediators. In addition, saponins can have an antimicrobial effect, helping to fight bacterial infections and strengthening the resistance body.

Immunostimulating effect

Saponins are also known for their immunostimulating properties. Studies show that they can boost the immune system by stimulating the activity of immune cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages. This action is particularly valued in herbal products designed to boost immunity and prevent infections.

Antioxidant and Antitumor Activity

Saponins, especially those found in ginseng and alfalfa, have strong antioxidant properties, meaning they can neutralize free radicals and protect cells from oxidative stress. As a result, they can delay the aging process and counteract chronic diseases such as tumors. Triterpene saponins are particularly effective in inhibiting the growth of cancer cells, making them promising compounds for anti-cancer therapy.

Effects on the Circulatory System

Saponins can also benefit the cardiovascular system. Their ability to lower cholesterol levels and prevent atherosclerotic plaque buildup in blood vessels makes them important components of a diet that supports heart health. Saponins can bind to cholesterol in the intestines, reducing its absorption, which contributes to lowering LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels in the blood.

Use of Saponins in Medicine and Cosmetics

Saponins have found wide application in both medicine and the cosmetic industry. In medicine, they are used as aids in treating inflammation, infections and boosting immunity. In the cosmetic industry, they are valued for their cleansing and anti-inflammatory properties, making them used in shampoos, soaps and skin care products.

ENCANN's products, such as ENCANN Ashwagandha Liquid Extract, may contain saponins that support the immune system and exhibit adaptogenic effects, helping the body cope with stress and supporting overall health(

Saponins - Summary

Saponins are natural chemical compounds with a broad spectrum of actions that support health on many levels. Thanks to their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, immune-stimulating and anticancer properties, saponins are a valuable ingredient in many dietary supplements and medical products. Incorporating saponin-containing products, such as the plant extracts offered by ENCANN, into your diet can provide numerous health benefits, supporting immunity, heart health and overall body health.

Source: PubMed (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/); Google Scholar (https://scholar.google.com/); National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI); ResearchGate (https://www.researchgate.net/)

The claims made refer to studies on the adaptogens Hericium Erinaceus, Ganoderma Lucidum, Cordyceps Militaris, Ashwagandha and Coriolus Versicolor not on Encann® brand products. These are not claims regarding the medicinal properties of the product offered. In accordance with the wording of EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT REGULATION 1924/2006, verifiable scientific evidence regarding studies on the use of the fungus Sophora Hedgehog- one of the ingredients of the offered product- is presented on this page.