Soapnuts (Reetha)-250gm

Soapnut or reetha is one of the most popular herbs in Ayurveda. It is all-natural, eco-friendly, cheap, and reusable. When it comes in contact with water, it creates mild suds that resemble soap. Hence, it is used for a variety of purposes, from washing clothes to making ornaments shine. Many of us are well aware of the benefits of soapnuts for the hair. However, their benefits aren’t restricted to just hair. These nuts are amazing for our health and skin as well and have multiple uses. In this article, we present the unique and distinct ways soapnuts can help us. Read on.

Scientific Name – Sapindus mukorossi

Family – Sapindaceae

Origin – Tropical areas of India, China, and Nepal

Other Names – Ritha/Reetha/Aritha (Hindi)

Soapnuts, also known as reetha, soapberries or washing nuts, have been used to make natural hair care products since time immemorial. This plant is rich in saponin, which makes your hair healthy, shiny, and lustrous when used regularly. So, its no wonder that soapnuts have been a popular choice for many people who have sensitive skin.

A deciduous plant that grows to a height of 20 m, soapnut is found in abundance in places that receive 150-200 cm of rainfall each year. This plant can be cultivated only on clay soil.

Reetha is hypoallergenic, absolutely odorless, and doesn’t cause any damage to fabrics. Hence, it is widely used as a cleaning agent. The sustainable nature and versatility of soapnuts make them an important part of one’s home.

Skin, Hair, And Health Benefits Of Soapnuts

1. Soapnut Liquid Soap

Making liquid soap out of soapnut is very easy, and the best part is that it suits all skin types.

What You Need

(For 1 cup of liquid soap)

• 2-3 berries (half mashed)
• 1 cup of water

What You Need To Do

1. Add the berries and a cup of water to a pan and bring it to a boil.
2. Fully mash the berries to make them release as many saponins as they can.
3. Let it boil for another half an hour and then put off the flame.
4. Allow the solution to cool and strain it through a muslin cloth. If you want, you can add your favorite essential oil for fragrance. Store it in a glass jar and refrigerate for further use.

2. Soapnut Laundry Detergent

You can use soapnut berries instead of your regular detergent to keep your clothes fresh and clean. They also act as a fabric softener.

For a soft wash with hot water, use 1-2 berries. For cold and harsh water, you will need to use about 8-9 berries. However, they can be reused.

3. Soapnut Dishwashing Soap

For a perfect wash, all you need is to place 4-5 berries in the cutlery holder and some white vinegar in the rinse dispenser of your dishwasher.

You can also use soapnut liquid soap to handwash utensils.

4. All-Purpose Cleaner

For making an all-purpose cleaner to clean dirt from cabinets and glasses, all you need is to do is take a spray bottle and pour soapnut liquid soap into it. You can also add strong essential oils like lemon and lavender for fragrance. Now, spray the liquid on the desired area and wipe it with a soft cloth.

You can also use this solution to clean electronic gadgets. Make sure that you don’t spray the liquid directly on the gadget’s screen. You can always drop some on a soft cloth and wipe the screen with it.

This spray can be used to clean marble, stainless steel, granite, and other kitchen surfaces.

5. Glass Cleaner

You can make your own glass and window pane cleaner at home.

What You Need

• 2 tablespoons of soapnut liquid soap
• 2 tablespoons of white vinegar
• 2-3 drops of your favorite essential oil

What You Need To Do

Mix the above ingredients and pour the solution into a spray bottle. Shake well before using it. Your glass cleaner is ready to use.

6. Soapnut Shampoo

You can make reetha shampoo easily at home. Here’s how:

What You Need

• 30 grams of soapnut liquid soap
• 350 grams of water
• 2-3 drops of your favorite essential oil
• 1 teaspoon baking soda for added strength (optional)

What You Need To Do

Mix the ingredients and use the mixture like a normal shampoo. Rinse well. You can use a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water as the final rinse to condition your hair.

7. Soapnut Hair Pack

This hair pack will impart a natural shine and luster to your hair.

What You Need

• 3 tablespoons soapnut powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons yogurt

What You Need To Do

Mix soapnut powder and water to form a paste. Add lemon juice and yogurt to it. Blend well. Apply it on your scalp and hair and let it dry. Wash it off with normal water.

8. Insect Repellent

Spray soapnut liquid soap around the inflicted areas to get rid of the annoying pests. You can also spread crushed and used berries around the area to repel insects.

9. Polishing Jewelry

To make your ornaments shine, soak your old jewels in undiluted reetha solution for 10-15 minutes and brush with the help of a toothbrush.

10. Washing Your Car

Yes, you can use soapnut berries to wash your car. Just soak 12-14 berries in a gallon of hot water and let them release saponins. Use this solution to wash your car. The solution is biodegradable and can be used to water plants.

A Word Of Caution

As you have seen, soapnuts have miraculous benefits for our skin, hair, and health. But, we must be aware of some risks associated with them as well. Take a look.

• Soapnuts do not have any side effects on the scalp, hair, and skin of humans. However, you must prevent your eyes from coming in direct contact with soapnuts. They have insecticidal properties that can cause allergies and swollen eyelids.

• If you observe rashes, itching, or any other issues on your skin or hair, stop using the product immediately.

• Always use soapnuts of good quality as they will be a lot more effective. Use soapnuts only in the specified quantities to avoid wastage. You can always make compost out of the used soapnuts.

• If the soapnuts remain unused for 72 hours, throw them right away.

This is how you can use soapnuts. Do you know any other uses of soapnuts? Share them with us in the box below.