Sapindus Mukorossi, Big Soap Nut Tree Soapberry Washnut, Ritha Reetha

Here is a quick view of the Sapindus mukorossi tree.
If you're interested in seeds to this beautiful tree please visit our website at:
https://www.theplantattraction.com/products/sapindus-mukorossi-5-seeds-big-soap-nut-tree-soapberry-washnut?_pos=1&_sid=9b29000d9&_ss=r

Sapindus Mukorossi
Also known as: The Big Soap Nut, Soapberry, Washnut, Ritha, and Reetha.

Here is a fast growing tropical deciduous tree native from India to Japan that grows about 10-20m tall. Its bole is straight, cylindrical, and can be up to 60cm in diameter. The flowers are small, white and occurs in large panicles pollinated by bees. The fruits are smooth and yellow to orange.

The value of the tree mostly comes from its fruit, which can be used for many purposes. It contains the compound of saponin, which has natural cleansing properties, and therefore the soapnut can be used as a cleanser for hair, skin, clothing, even tarnished silverware and jewelry. These saponins are also useful as insecticides, for purposes such as removing head lice off the scalp. It is also suggested that the soapnut can also be used as a natural remedy for many health problems which include treating migraine headaches, burns, dental problems or for dermatological purposes such as using the seeds to remove skin impurities like pimples or eczema. In northern India, it is regarded as a cure for epilepsy. Researchers have found that the fruit can be used in an enhanced oil recovery technique, as in that the extracts from the soapnut can be used as an organic surfactant to increase the mobility of oil from fields. In addition, researchers have demonstrated the potential for the soapnut to be used as a natural surfactant for washing arsenic from soils that are rich in iron.
The seeds are often used in jewelry making and crafts. They are also edible, usually crushed and boiled and used in desserts. Seed kernels can be used as fertilizer after seed oil extraction.
The wood is used for making furniture, boards, plywood, etc. It is also used for fuel and charcoal-making.

Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: acid, neutral and basic (alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil. USDA zone 9+

Caution: fruit pulp contains saponins and is used as a fish poison. Although poisonous, saponins are poorly absorbed by the human body and so most pass through without harm. This is for informational purposes only. Further research or consult a herbalist or doctor for medicinal purposes. We are not responsible.