Soapwort Root Profile
Also known as
Also known as- Saponaria officinalis, Bouncing Bet, Latherwort, Soapberry, and Lady's Washbowl.
Introduction
Soapwort is, as its name suggests, a plant with a "soapy" consistency. A member of the Clove family, soapwort is a low-growing perennial shrub with a thick tap root used in herbal medicines and for making soaps.
Constituents
Fiber, sugars, saponins.
Parts Used
Dried root.
Typical Preparations
Most commonly found as a tea, however it can be taken as an extract or capsule though much rarer. Cosmetically it can be included into bath and body care products.
Summary
The primary use of soapwort today is treat stuffy nose and clogged throat caused by upper respiratory infection. The herb irritates the linings of airways just enough to encourage coughing and sneezing to clear them. It also encourages sweating that was once thought to "sweat out" a cold.
Precautions
Its internal use must be administered by a professional experienced in the use of this material. If overdosed, it may cause severe stomach upset.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
