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Amber's Organics LLC Medical Herb Seed A-Z > Soapwort
Soapwort

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Price: $2.99
Availability: in stock

Latin name: Saponaria officinalis
Other names: Bouncing Bet, Bruisewort, Crow Soap, Dog Cloves, Fuller's Herb, Latherwort, Old Maids' Pink, Soap Root, Sweet Betty, Wild Sweet William

50 seeds

 

A Remedy For

  • Bronchitis
  • Cough

Although both the root and the leaf of this plant have been used medicinally, only the root has a verified clinical effect. In folk medicine the root is used not only for upper respiratory inflammation, but for eczema and other persistent skin problems as well. Homeopathic practitioners regard it as a remedy for colds.

 

What It Is; Why It Works
Soapwort gained its name from the crushed root's ability to produce suds when rubbed in water. It can actually be used as a mild detergent for fine fabrics, and was once added to beer to create a frothy head.
   Researchers have found that Soapwort has both antibacterial and expectorant action: it kills bacteria and loosens phlegm, making it easier to cough up. The plant grows in the temperate regions of North America, Asia, and Europe.

 

Avoid If...
No known medical conditions preclude the use of Soapwort.

 

Special Cautions
Although Soapwort poses no major risks when taken at customary dosage levels, it sometimes irritates the stomach. The leaf of the plant can prove irritating to the skin and mucous membranes.

 

Possible Drug Interactions
No interactions have been reported.

 

Special Information If You Are Pregnant or Breastfeeding
No harmful effects are known.

 

How To Prepare
Two varieties of the root can be used, Gypsophila and Rubra. To make a Soapwort tea, use 0.4 grams (about one-eighth teaspoonful) of the Rubra variety.

 

Typical Dosage
Soapwort is taken orally. The usual daily dosages are:

 

Gypsophila: 1.5 grams
Rubra: 30 to 150 milligrams

Overdosage
Because of Soapwort's irritating effect on the stomach, excessive doses can cause vomiting.