The herbs mentioned in the Indian Ayurveda for hairs had a list of some very precious herbs like Bhringraj, Amla etc. But did you know that there is a herb called soapnut? This herb has a special innumerable therapeutic and detoxifying properties. This Herb is called Reetha.
What is Reetha ?
Reetha is a highly valued medicinal plant in Ayurveda for its innumerable therapeutic and detoxifying properties. The dried fruit of this plant is used as a key component in various shampoos, cleansing agents and hair care products, owing to its potent anti allergic, antibacterial and mildly antiseptic properties.
Aside from its botanical name “Sapindus Mukorossi” ,it also goes by several other names like soapnut, soapberry and washnut.
Frequently Asked Question
Is reetha good for Hair?
Yes, it is good for hair as it nourishes the scalp and its richness of nutrients makes new hair follicles and strengthens the hair from within the root. Its antibacterial and antifungal properties assist in treating scalp infections and ward off dandruff and lice.
Is Reetha good for the heart ?
Yes, it is good for heart as it naturally lowers cholesterol levels
Is Reetha good for skin ?
Yes, it is good for skin as its moisturising property keeps the skin well hydrated, prevents drying of the skin and makes the skin look radiant and supple.
Can Reetha help in snake bites ?
Its strong anti-venom property is beneficial in removing the snake and scorpion venom from the victims.
Can reetha help in respiratory problems ?
Yes, it can help in respiratory problems as it is an effective natural cure for easing the symptoms of asthma due to its powerful emetic, astringent and anthelmintic properties.
Benefits of Reetha
Good for hair
Its natural surfactant saponin offers foaming properties and soapy texture which helps in clearing dirt, dust and oil in the hair and it is a wonderful natural compound that nourishes the scalp. The essence of vitamins and saponins enhances the lustre and shine of the mane, reduces the dryness making the hair look silky and voluminous. Its richness of nutrients makes new hair follicles and strengthens the hair from within the root and its antibacterial and antifungal properties help in treating scalp infections and ward off dandruff and lice.
Good for Skin
Its saponins works well as an excellent cleanser and is used as an alternative for soap and face wash. It is suitable for all types of skin, blending reetha with besan flour improves the skin sustenance and glow. The potent moisturising property of the soapnut keeps the skin well hydrated, prevents drying of the skin and makes the skin look radiant and supple and the powerful antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties treat skin disorders like acne, eczema and psoriasis.
Helps in Cancer
It contains essential compounds such as saponins which possess anticancer and antitumor properties. It effectively stopped the growth of cancer cells and tumour formation in cancer cell lines and may have the potential to induce the death of cancer cells.
Good for Liver
It benefits liver health and the extract of fruit pericarp of Reetha showed a positive effect on the liver. The extract might help reduce the damage caused to the liver cells.
Helpful in Snake Bites
Its strong anti-venom property is beneficial in removing the snake and scorpion venom from the victims. Powder kernel of its plant mixed with jaggery in equal quantities consume it to reverse the adverse effect of poison.
Helps in respiratory problems
Its powder works well as an effective natural cure for easing the symptoms of asthma due to its powerful emetic, astringent and anthelmintic properties. The smell of ground reetha powder can provide instant relief. The fruit, bark and its roots work as a potent demulcent and as a mild expectorant.
Conclusion
Reetha is a powerful ayurvedic herb that is eco-friendly, cheap and reusable. Right from maintaining the skin and hair health, this humble herb has manifold uses as it is a key component in various shampoos, cleansing agents and hair care products, owing to its potent antiallergic, antibacterial and mildly antiseptic properties. This Ayurvedic herb is widely grown in tropical countries like India, China and Nepal.
