Saponins

Saponins are a diverse group of glycosidic compounds widely distributed in the plant kingdom, which are characterised by structures containing triterpene or steroidal aglycones and one or more sugar chains. Despite their fairly large structural diversity, saponins share some unique biological properties including the ability to foam and lyse erythrocytes. This book presents current research in the study of the properties, applications and health benefits of saponins. Topics discussed include an analysis on the chemical structures and isolation of saponins from Panax species; triterpenoid saponins from genus Gypsophila L. (Caryophyllaceae); the potential of triterpenoids from ginseng to regulate cultured adipocytes and saponin use as antimicrobial in fibrous and consumer products.