Extraction of Saponins

Saponin Plants

• Saponins are commonly found in the roots of tropical plants. Alfalfa is a common plant that contains saponins, along with chickpeas, common beans and soybeans. Certain weeds such as broomweed and corn cockle contain saponin and can actually cause illness in livestock that happen to graze on these plants.

Extraction Methods

• The extraction of saponins happens on the molecular level. In a lab, the raw plant material is heated and placed in a transparent solvent or mixture. It is then exposed to microwave energy. This process disrupts the internal cell structure and releases the saponins for harvest. Another method is Pressurized Liquid Extraction, or PLE, where the solvents are heated at a high temperature under extreme pressure. This is a more efficient way of collecting saponins.

Health Benefits

• Although saponins are harmful to animals, they are very beneficial for human health. They act as a natural antioxidant and boost the immune system. They help in the reduction of bone loss and bad cholesterol levels. Saponins also protect the user from cancer by preventing cancer cells from developing. This has been helpful in the fight against colon cancer.