Evidence supporting the use of: Saponins
For the health condition: Parasites (general)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Saponins are naturally occurring compounds found in various plants, and they have a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in regions of Asia, Africa, and South America. Many traditional herbalists have used saponin-rich plants such as Quillaja saponaria (soapbark tree), Yucca schidigera, and certain species of beans and legumes to help expel or control intestinal parasites. The basis for their use comes from observations that saponins can form soap-like foams and disrupt cell membranes, which has led to the belief that they may help dislodge or kill intestinal worms and other parasites in humans and animals. Ethnobotanical records document these uses, though precise formulations and dosages are often lacking.
From a scientific perspective, in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that saponins can have antiparasitic effects, particularly against protozoa and helminths, likely due to their membrane-disrupting properties. However, clinical evidence in humans is sparse, and most studies have been preclinical or observational. Therefore, while traditional use is well documented, and there is some preliminary scientific support, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, making the evidence moderate but not conclusive.
Other ingredients used for Parasites (general)
ajoenebarberry
myrobalan
betel
black walnut
caprylic acid
clove
turmeric
garlic bulb
ginger
quassia
oregano
pumpkin
slippery elm bark
sweet wormwood
typhonium
neem tree
clerodendrum indicum
holarrhena antidysenterica
pau d'arco
soursop
Anthraquinone
Agave
Achyranthes
Anamu
Abrus
Alchornea
American Pawpaw
Acetogenin
Asam gelugor
Abuta
Amor seco
Alantolactone
Baliospermum
Blepharis
Berberis (unspecified)
Baccharoides anthelmintica
Borassus aethiopum
Croton seeds
Calotropis gigantea
Combretum quadrangulare
Cinquefoil
Chenopodium
Colombo
Chirata
Dichroa
Diatomaceous Earth
Rhubarb
Wormseed
Other health conditions supported by saponins
Antibiotics (alternatives to)Arthritis
Asthma
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Cholesterol (high)
Circulation (poor)
Colds (antiviral)
Colds (prevention)
Diabetes
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Edema
Fatigue
Gastritis
Inflammation
Parasites (general)
Parasites (nematodes, worms)
Parasites (tapeworm)
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Ulcers
Urinary Tract Infections
Wounds and Sores