soapwort
soapwort
Opposite slightly hairy leaves, sweetly scented white or light pink 5 petal flowers with notched petals on smooth stems swollen at joints. Contains saponins, so it can be used as soap or shampoo by crushing the plant (flowers, leaves, root) and mixing with water. Lathers when wet, the soap moisturizes skin. Flowers and leaves can be used fresh as soap when mixed with water.(blender really helps) Used to wash delicate and unique fabrics. Diuretic, laxative, expectorant, Tea helps clear respiratory tract, asthma, liver and gallbladder issues like jaundice, skin issues like psoriasis, eczema, acne, rash, boils. Helps spleen, inhibits growth of breast cancer. Overdose kills red blood cells and can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. Toxic lookalike- Oleander
Edible Plant Guide © 2012 Markus Rothkranz