Saponine

Saponins are a group of plant compounds found in many different plants that fulfil a variety of biological functions. These compounds are known for their soap-like properties and their many uses in health care, nutrition and even industrial applications.

What are saponins?

Saponins are natural chemical compounds that belong to the glycosides. They consist of a sugar moiety (glycone) and a non-sugar moiety (aglycone), which often consists of a steroid or triterpene structure. This unique composition gives saponins their soap-like property, which allows them to foam in water – hence the name “saponins”, derived from the Latin word “sapo” for soap.

Where are saponins found?

Saponins are found in a variety of plants, including

• Pulses: peas, soya beans and other pulses are rich in saponins. Interesting side information: Washing pulses dissolves the saponins in water, forming a foamy layer.
• Oats and quinoa: These grains also contain significant amounts of saponins.
• Ginseng: Panax ginseng in particular is known for its high saponin content.
• Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra): Liquorice also contains saponins, which are used medicinally.
• Spinach and other leafy vegetables: These also contain saponins, albeit in smaller quantities.

Health benefits of saponins

Saponins have a number of potential health benefits that make them an interesting part of the human diet and natural medicine:

1. Cholesterol reduction: saponins can help lower blood cholesterol levels by blocking the absorption of cholesterol in the intestines. This can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
2. Immunomodulation: Saponins have immunomodulatory properties, which means that they can regulate the immune system. They can stimulate the activity of immune cells, which protects the body better against infections and diseases.
3. Antioxidant effects: Saponins also act as antioxidants, helping to neutralise free radicals in the body and prevent cell damage.
4. Antimicrobial properties: Some saponins show antimicrobial activity, which can be effective against certain bacteria, viruses and fungi. This makes them useful in the treatment and prevention of infections.
5. Cancer prevention: There is evidence from scientific studies that saponins may inhibit the growth of certain cancer cells. They may act by inducing apoptosis (programmed cell death) and inhibiting tumour growth processes.

Applications of saponins

Saponins have many applications that go beyond their health benefits:

• Cosmetics industry: due to their foaming properties, saponins are used in soaps, shampoos and other cleansing products.
• Food industry: Saponins are also used as emulsifiers and foaming agents in food.
• Crop protection: In agriculture, saponins can be used as a natural pesticide as they repel some insects and pests.

Side effects and precautions

Although saponins offer many health benefits, they should be consumed in moderation. In high concentrations, they can cause gastrointestinal discomfort as they can irritate cell membranes. People with sensitive stomachs or certain health problems should therefore exercise caution and discuss the consumption of saponin-containing foods or supplements with a doctor.

Scientific studies and research

The health benefits of saponins have been the subject of many studies investigating their potential role in the prevention and treatment of disease. For example, saponins from soya have been shown to have the potential to lower cholesterol levels, while saponins from ginseng may have immunostimulant effects.