MUSCAT CHEMICAL TAG::
They are used in soaps, medicinals, fire extinguishers, speciously as dietary supplements, for synthesis of steroids, and in carbonated beverages (the head on a mug of root beer). Structurally, they are glycosides, sugars attached to another organic molecule, usually a steroid or triterpene, a steroid building block.
Saponins with one sugar chain have the best foaming characteristics. ... This has the effect of reducing the surface tension of the water, causing it to foam. In aqueous solutions, surfactants form micelles above a critical concentration called critical micelle concentration
Saponins decrease blood lipids, lower cancer risks, and lower blood glucose response. A high saponin diet can be used in the inhibition of dental caries and platelet aggregation, in the treatment of hypercalciuria in humans, and as an antidote against acute lead poisoning.
Saponins may help reduce cholesterol levels, strengthen the immune system, treats diabetes, and inhibit tumor growth. They also improve lipid metabolism and may help prevent and treat obesity.