Soap Nut Tree

(Soap Nut Tree)
Sanskrit: अरिष्ट • Botanical: Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn.

Arishta (Soap Nut) is a large deciduous tree found in Northern India, particularly in sub-Himalayan tracts. The fruit pericarp (shell) contains saponins and is widely used as a natural soap for washing hair and clothes. Medicinally, the fruit is emetic and used in Vamana therapy. The fruit powder is used as nasal errhine (Shirovirechana). The saponin content gives it excellent cleansing properties. It is also used in epilepsy - the fruit is given with water. The fruit shells are used traditionally in washing delicate fabrics. Chemical analysis shows high saponin content. Dose: Churna 2-4 ratti; for Vamana as directed. Verse: 20.

Ayurvedic Properties

Taste (Rasa)
Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)
Quality (Guna)
Light (Laghu), Sharp (Tikshna)
Potency (Virya)
Hot (Ushna)
Post-digestive (Vipaka)
Pungent (Katu)
Key Constituents
Saponin (Sapogenin), Mukorosside, Sugars
Also Known As
English: Soap Nut Tree, Washnut
Sanskrit: अरिष्ट, फेनिल, रक्तबीज
Hindi: रीठा

What is Soap Nut Tree (Reetha / रीठा)?

Arishta (Soap Nut) is a large deciduous tree found in Northern India, particularly in sub-Himalayan tracts. The fruit pericarp (shell) contains saponins and is widely used as a natural soap for washing hair and clothes. Medicinally, the fruit is emetic and used in Vamana therapy. The fruit powder is used as nasal errhine (Shirovirechana). The saponin content gives it excellent cleansing properties. It is also used in epilepsy - the fruit is given with water. The fruit shells are used traditionally in washing delicate fabrics. Chemical analysis shows high saponin content. Dose: Churna 2-4 ratti; for Vamana as directed. Verse: 20.

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Therapeutic Actions (Karma)

  • Vamanopaga (emetic adjuvant)
  • Krimighna (anthelmintic)
  • Shirovirechana (nasal purgative)

Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5

Soap Nut Tree by Condition

Explore how Soap Nut Tree is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.

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Soap Nut Tree for Sinus & Allergies

Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.