Red soapwort (Saponaria officinalis) is a plant from Europe and Asia. In the Middle Ages, monks viewed soapwort as a divine gift to keep them clean.
Red soapwort contains chemicals that might thin mucus and make it easier to cough up.
People use red soapwort for acne, eczema, bronchitis, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Is It Effective?
There is interest in using red soapwort for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Is it Safe?
When taken by mouth: There isn't enough reliable information to know if red soapwort is safe. It might cause stomach irritation, nausea, and vomiting.
When applied to the skin: Red soapwort is likely safe. It seems to be well-tolerated when used in soaps and shampoos.
Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if red soapwort is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Stomach or intestinal disorders such as ulcers or inflammatory bowel disease: Red soapwort can make these conditions worse. Don't use it if you have stomach or intestinal problems.
It is not known if Red Soapwort interacts with any medicines. Before taking Red Soapwort, talk with your healthcare professional if you take any medications.
There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.
There are no known interactions with foods.
Red soapwort is often used as an ingredient in soaps, herbal shampoos, and detergents. As a medicine, there isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of red soapwort might be. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult a healthcare professional before using.
Bouncing-Bet, Common Soapwort, Crow Soap, Herbe à Foulon, Herbe à Savon, Jabonera Roja, Saponaire, Saponaire Commune, Saponaire Officinale, Saponaire Rouge, Saponaria officinalis, Saponariae Rubrae Radix, Savonniè re, Soapweed, Soapwort, Wild Sweet William.
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