Discover The Incredible Benefits Of Reetha And Its Uses

The fruit of the Sapindus genus of trees, which are mostly found in tropical areas, is called reetha or soapnut. Because of this fruit’s inherent purifying qualities, people have been using it for millennia. Thanks to its mild yet potent cleansing properties, reetha has long been a staple in traditional medicine and beauty regimens worldwide. Its natural foaming and detergent-like properties have earned it reverence since ancient times when it was a valued resource for cleaning and personal hygiene.

Nutritional Value of Reetha

Nutritional component	Content (g/100 g) (approx.)
Oil (seed kernel oil)	3.9
Protein	33.4
Sugar	10.8
Soluble fibre	3.8
Insoluble fibre	2.2
Polysaccharides	18.1

Medicinal Properties of Reetha

Reetha has a number of medicinal properties. Some of them are: –

• Ayurvedic medicine uses reetha to treat a variety of skin issues, including psoriasis, eczema, and acne. (1)
• It is beneficial against microbial illnesses due to its antibacterial and antifungal characteristics.
• Reetha is also used to strengthen hair follicles and reduce dandruff in order to promote healthy hair.
• It is applied topically to relieve skin irritations and is thought to have anti-inflammatory qualities.
• Because of its medicinal qualities, reetha extracts are frequently included in herbal shampoos and skincare products.

Potential uses of Reetha

Reetha, often known as soapnut, has several uses because of its therapeutic qualities. (2) Common uses include hair care to prevent dandruff and strengthen hair, skincare for ailments including dermatitis and acne, and as a natural cleanser and foaming agent. Its many advantages make it a popular ingredient in herbal and Ayurvedic products. Now let’s explore its potential uses in detail: –

1. Reetha for cancer(6)

Reetha contains many glycosides that, when tested on tumour cells, demonstrated anticancer effects. Saponins have anti-tumorigenic (tumour-prevention) properties that stem from many anticancer pathways. Reetha’s saponins demonstrated their anticancer qualities by encouraging the death of cancer cells.

2. Reetha as an anti-bacterial agent

Reetha is beneficial against a variety of microbiological illnesses due to its strong antibacterial qualities. Because of its natural ingredients, there is a lower chance of infection as it prevents the growth of dangerous bacteria on the skin and scalp. Reetha is frequently used to cleanse and guard against bacterial infections in skincare and haircare products. (3)

3. Reetha for liver

A test on albino rats showed that the liver can be improved with Reetha. (7) A number of factors shield the liver cells against oxidative damage and cholesterol accumulation.

4. Reetha as an anti-fungal agent

Reetha is a natural treatment for fungal diseases because of its strong antifungal qualities. Its medicinal ingredients prevent the formation of fungi, providing relief from ailments including ringworm and athlete’s foot. Reetha is a preferred ingredient in both conventional and contemporary herbal medicine formulations due to its effectiveness as an anti-fungal agent.

5. Reetha for wound healing

Reetha has numerous antimicrobial qualities that speed up wound healing. Its anti-inflammatory qualities relieve the damaged area, while its natural cleansing activity helps prevent infections. (4) Reetha facilitates speedier healing by encouraging tissue regeneration. When applied topically, it can help the body’s natural healing processes and efficiently clean wounds.

6. Reetha for skin whitening

Skin tone can be evened out and lightened with the use of reetha powder. However, the best part is reetha powder is readily available and can be used on a daily basis for facial care at home.

7. Helps in controlling Intestinal Worms

Because of its innate anthelmintic qualities, reetha, also known as soapnut, has long been used to treat intestinal worms. Reetha is a natural and all-encompassing therapy for preserving digestive health because studies have shown that its saponins are efficient against a variety of intestinal parasites.

8. Reetha for hair

It is good for hair because it strengthens hair follicles, fights dandruff, and improves scalp health in general. Its organic cleaning qualities provide hair with a healthier, glossier appearance by eliminating pollutants and extra oil without dehydrating the scalp. Herbal shampoos frequently contain reetha extracts due to their nourishing properties. It also has gentle insecticidal properties which helps in removing lice from the scalp. (5)

How to Use Reetha?

• To use Reetha for hair treatment, boil a few soapnuts until the water turns brown and soapy after soaking them in water for the entire night.
• Allow the blend to cool down before filtering out the liquid—which serves as a shampoo.
• As an alternative, you might powder Reetha and combine it with water to make a hair wash paste.
• Reetha can be pounded into a powder and used with water to make a mild face and body wash for skin care.
• For even greater effects, it can be used with other plants like turmeric or neem.

Recommended Dosage of Reetha

Reetha Powder – ½ -1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.

But before taking Reetha, be sure to consult your doctor about the dosage.

Side Effects of Reetha

Reetha has several advantages, but utilising it too much can be dangerous. Additionally, Reetha is definitely not recommended for those who reside in warm climates. They should utilise it only after speaking with a physician. Other than this, eyes should never come into contact with Reetha foam.

FAQs

Conclusion

Retha has numerous established medical advantages due to its versatile therapeutic qualities. Reetha has proven itself as a useful natural cure thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties as well as its beneficial benefits on hair, scalp, and digestive health. Retha is usually seen to be safe, but before incorporating it into their regimen, those who have particular sensitivities or medical issues should speak with a healthcare provider. 

Disclaimer: This content is only meant for informational purposes. This article is not a substitute for medical guidance, diagnosis, or care. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional with any queries or worries you may have about a medical issue.

References: 

1. Ayurvedic medicine uses reetha to treat a variety of skin issues, including psoriasis, eczema, and acne. (researchgate.net)
2. Reetha, often known as soapnut, has several uses because of its therapeutic qualities.(researchgate.net)
3. Reetha is frequently used to cleanse and guard against bacterial infections in skincare and haircare products.(researchgate.net)
4. Its anti-inflammatory qualities relieve the damaged area, while its natural cleansing activity helps prevent infections.(researchgate.net)
5. It also has gentle insecticidal properties which helps in removing lice from the scalp. (researchgate.net)
6. Reetha for cancer (researchgate.net)
7. A test on albino rats showed that the liver can be improved with Reetha. (researchgate.net)