SOAPROOT

SOAPROOT, radix Saponariae, dried roots of plants: soapwort (Saponaria officinalis, s. rubra L.-red S. r.) or various species of gypsophila (Gypsophila-white S. r.). Both varieties contain about 4% saponin along with sugar, mucus, and resinous substances. The main regions of growth and collection: soapwort-in the central and southern parts of the RSFSR and in Ukraine, gypsophila-in Central Asia (Turkestan). In medicine, S. r. finds no application, although there were proposals to use it as a substitute for imported saponin-containing plants, such as senega, sarsaparilla, quillaia, etc. A water extract from S. r. was proposed under the incorrect name 'saponin' to replace gum arabic in emulsions. From 100 parts of dry root, up to 35 parts of such an extract are obtained (Bukholts); 1 part of it replaces 60-100 parts of gum arabic in emulsions (M. Shatsky). The question of the effect and safety of S. root and its saponin has not been finally clarified; according to L. Kofler's data, saponin only many times increases the toxicity of simultaneously administered substances, especially cardiac and nerve poisons (see Saponins). In technology, S. r. and its extract are used as an emulsifying substance, as well as for creating foam in fire extinguishers-pongons, in the production of effervescent drinks (lemonades, beer), in confectionery for obtaining stable foams, halva, etc., and also as part of solutions for removing stains and washing delicate materials, instead of soap. From the USSR, S. r. is exported; for 1925/26 g. 84.29 t were collected, 38 t were exported for a sum of 10,358 gold rubles. The quality of S. r. is regulated by the state standard of NKTorh.