Sapindus mukorossi

Sapindus mukorossi
 
 

Common Name – Soapnut / Reetha

Botanical nameSapindus mukorossi

Habit-

  • Deciduous
  • Medium tree
  • Fast growing

Specific properties

  • Tolerant of nutrient deficient poor soils
  • Preferred for reforestation of eroded hillslopes
  • Because of the abundant biodiesel and saponin in the seed,

Ecology

  • Attracts lots of bees, which are its key pollinator

Uses

  • The dried fruit is most valuable part of the plant, contains saponin, which is a natural soap and is used in preparation of shampoos and detergents
  • Plant exhibit antimicrobial, cytotoxic, fungicidal, insecticidal properties, used for removing lice from the scalp, as fish poison, bio pesticide etc
  • Fruit have saponins which are emetic, contraceptive, used to treat excessive salivation, pimples, epilepsy, chlorosis, migraines, eczema, psoriasis, coughs and inhibits tumour cell growth
  • Powdered seeds used to treat dental caries, arthritis, colds, constipation and nausea
  • The leaves are used in baths to relieve joint pain and the roots are used in the treatment of gout and rheumatism.
  • Seeds used to bleach cardamom seeds which improves flavour and colour
  • Jewellers in India use it for restoring brightness of tarnished gold, silver ornaments
  • Soapnut is a natural surfactant for washing arsenic from soils rich in iron
  • Seed kernel is potential biodiesel material
  • The seed kernels, a by-product of the oil extraction is used as fertilizer

 

Propagation

Seeds

Vegetative cuttings

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