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.
Uses & Effectiveness
We currently have no information for RED SOAPWORT overview.
Side Effects
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 and Warnings
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.
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.
Interactions
We currently have no information for RED SOAPWORT overview.
Dosing
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.
Petrović GM, Ilić MD, Stankov-Jovanović VP, Stojanović GS, Jovanović SČ. Phytochemical analysis of Saponaria officinalis L. shoots and flowers essential oils. Nat Prod Res. 2018;32(3):331-334. View abstract.
Said O, Khamaysi I, Kmail A, et al. In Vitro and Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial to Determine the Efficacy and Safety of Nine Antiacne Medicinal Plants. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2020;2020:3231413. View abstract.
CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.