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arishtaka in Ayurveda - Sapindus trifoliatus Linn., laurifolia Vahl

arishtaka :

arishtaka  : Sapindus trifoliatus Linn., laurifolia Vahl

Taxonomical Classification

Family: Sapindaceae


VERNACULAR NAMES

English: Indian filbert, soapnut tree


Varities:

The Americas have a wide variety of plant-based surfactants. The Yucca group of plants like Yucca baccata, Yucca constricta, Yuccha thompsoniii found in the Mojave desert, and across regions like Texas is an important Native American plant. The plant fibre was used to make baskets, belts, ropes, footwear, cords, etc. Yucca root and leaves contain a large amount of saponins – the root is specifically used for certain cleansing rituals. It is also eaten as a part of native medicine for its anti-inflammatory effect and is considered very useful in conditions like Rheumatoid arthritis. The Hopi, Papago and Utes tribes still use Yucca roots for this purpose. Yucca stems and roots were used as a natural shampoo, and a detergent.

The Australian continent also has a large number of plant based soapy herbs that were used for cleansing. The Sydney Golden Wattle, or the Acacia longifolia, contains saponin rich leaves which can be crushed in water and used as a natural cleanser. The Australian Soap tree, Alphitonia excelsa, also has similar uses. This is a fast-growing tall tree that survives semi deciduous conditions and is an excellent tree for conserving wildlife. Native Australian birds are attracted to the fruits of this tree and also to the caterpillars and other insects that survive off the foliage of the tree. It is a host plant for many species of butterflies too and is moderately drought and disease resistant. Here too the leaves, which are rich in saponins were crushed in water and used as a cleanser.

The African continent also lists many saponin containing berries, leaves, and tree barks that are effective cleansers. Phytolacca dodecandra, or the African soapberry, is one such example. Like other saponin containing plants, it is a strong molluscicide agent and can also be used in passive hunting to stun fish and collect them, as is done in the Amazonian rainforest by certain tribes using saponin containing agents. Ethiopia and Eritrean communities have cultivated the African soapberry for centuries. This herb is called “Endod” – Endod is made using leaves and berries of the African soapberry to launder clothes and wash hair. Unlike the Indian soapberry, the Saponins in 4- 5 of the African soapberry plants, are better used fresh rather than dry. The leaves and berries are crushed and agitated in water to produce rich lather to clean clothing, and as a shampoo for hair.

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