Soapwort

Soapwort

Saponaria officinalis

Do not take internally. This herb should only be prescribed by a qualified herbalist because of the high saponin content, which makes it mildly poisonous. Do not grow neat fish ponds, because the root can poison the fish. Soapwort root is decocted and used as a wash for treating mild skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, cold sores, boils, and acne. It is also used for gout and rheumatism.

Soapwort leaves and stems can be boiled in rainwater or distilled water and strained to produce a soap for washing the hair and face.

I decided to include soapwort among the medicinal herbs because it is useful in treating skin conditions. I feel that informing others about the helpful aspects of this herb will enable people with acne and other skin problems to consult their doctors about this possible alternative.

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	Do not take internally. This herb should only be prescribed by a qualified herbalist because of the high saponin content, which makes it mildly poisonous. Do not grow neat fish ponds, because the root can poison the fish. Soapwort root is decocted and used as a wash for treating mild skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, cold sores, boils, and acne. It is also used for gout and rheumatism.
Soapwort leaves and stems can be boiled in rainwater or distilled water and strained to produce a soap for washing the hair and face.
I decided to include soapwort among the medicinal herbs because it is useful in treating skin conditions. I feel that informing others about the helpful aspects of this herb will enable people with acne and other skin problems to consult their doctors about this possible alternative.