Soapberry Amazonian vs Onosma echioides

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Soapberry Amazonian

Sapindus saponaria

Skin and Topical

Skin and Topical

Soapberry Amazonian

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Onosma echioides

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Amazonian/Central American tree berry used as natural cleanser and medicine.

Mediterranean and Middle Eastern herb with red root dye; used in Unani medicine for skin and inflammation.

Active Compounds

Saponins, Sesquiterpene glycosides, Mucilage

shikonin derivatives, tannins, mucilage, naphthoquinones

Traditional Uses

Skin cleansing, Rheumatism, Fever, Epilepsy

skin diseases, wounds, inflammation, fever

Modern Uses

Natural surfactant, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial

anti-inflammatory, wound healing, antimicrobial

Adult Dosage

External: fruit as soap; decoction for wash

Topical ointment 2x/day

Contraindications

Internal use, Eye contact

pregnancy

Side Effects

Eye irritation, GI toxicity if ingested

skin staining from red pigments

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E