Ayurvedic Properties
- Taste (Rasa)
- Pungent (Katu), Bitter (Tikta)
- Quality (Guna)
- Light (Laghu), Sharp (Tikshna)
- Potency (Virya)
- Hot (Ushna)
- Post-digestive (Vipaka)
- Pungent (Katu)
- Key Constituents
- Saponin (Sapogenin), Mukorosside, Sugars
- Also Known As
- English: Soap Nut Tree, Washnut
Sanskrit: अरिष्ट, फेनिल, रक्तबीज
Hindi: रीठा
What is Soap Nut Tree (Reetha / रीठा)?
Arishta (Soap Nut) is a large deciduous tree found in Northern India, particularly in sub-Himalayan tracts. The fruit pericarp (shell) contains saponins and is widely used as a natural soap for washing hair and clothes. Medicinally, the fruit is emetic and used in Vamana therapy. The fruit powder is used as nasal errhine (Shirovirechana). The saponin content gives it excellent cleansing properties. It is also used in epilepsy - the fruit is given with water. The fruit shells are used traditionally in washing delicate fabrics. Chemical analysis shows high saponin content. Dose: Churna 2-4 ratti; for Vamana as directed. Verse: 20.
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5
Therapeutic Actions (Karma)
- Vamanopaga (emetic adjuvant)
- Krimighna (anthelmintic)
- Shirovirechana (nasal purgative)
Source: Bhavaprakash Nighantu, Varga 5
How to Use Soap Nut by Condition
Explore how Soap Nut is used for specific health concerns — with dosage, preparation methods, and classical references for each.
▶ Classical Text References (1 sources)
References in Sushruta Samhita
An amulet made of Varuna (Crataeva nurvala) and Arishta (soapberry) wood, along with Ruchaka and Sainduka, should be constantly worn.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 31: Revatipratishedha
Pastes of Palasha leaves, and foam from Badari (jujube) leaves and Arishta (soapberry) applied to the body pacify burning, thirst, and fainting completely.
— Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 39: Jvarapratishedha
Source: Sushruta Samhita, Uttara Tantra, Chapter 31: Revatipratishedha; Uttara Tantra, Chapter 39: Jvarapratishedha
Medical Disclaimer: The information on this page is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Ayurvedic treatments should be pursued under the guidance of a qualified practitioner (BAMS/MD Ayurveda). Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. Content is sourced from classical Ayurvedic texts and may not reflect the latest medical research.