In this article, discover properties, health benefits, side effects and dosages of Quillaia the plant.
Quillaia is the processed inner bark of the soapbark plant. The stems of this plant are extracted and milled widely for its advantageous usages.
The soapbark plant is called the Quillaja Saponaria. Quillaia holds a high concentration of essential saponin extracts.
The percentage of saponins increases when the bark is processed. For this, quillaia is used globally as a form of medicine.
Table of Contents
Properties Of Quillaia
Let me tell you about all the properties that Quillaia holds. Quillaia extracts are rich in active compounds like:
- Saponins
- Tannins
- Polyphenols
- Calcium Oxalate
These biologically active compounds serve many health benefits. Quillaia has many potential properties like,
- hemolytic
- cytotoxic
- immunity booster
- mucosal irritation
- anti-inflaming
- anti-cholesterol
These provide an abundance of goodness for the administration of your health.
Health Benefits Of Quillaia
Now, that you are aware of all the properties, let me talk about the benefits. Quillaia can bring along a variety of health benefits.
The high percentage of tannin in quillaia can work as an astringent. Due to this, the plant is used to obtain relief from a cough and mucus accumulation.
You may also treat bronchitis and difficulty in breathing issues with the help of this.
1. For Your Skin
Quillaia is a remedy for many of your skin issues. Sore skin, athlete’s foot and itchiness can be cured by the extract of quillaia. Quillaia extracts are used widely in skin creams.
2. For Your Hair
Quillaia can also help your hair. If you have an itchy scalp due to dandruff then you can use this extract without any second thought. It can also help you if you are seeing hair thinning issues.
3. Vaginal Discharges
You may use quillaia extracts for vaginal discharges
4. Food
You may also add the bark in desserts that are baked or frozen. Food like gelatin and puddings can also have a similar add-on. It is also seen that quillaia extracts are used in root beer and cocktails.
5. Miscellaneous
Quillaia is also used in fire extinguishers.
- For washing clothes.
- Quillaia helps to stimulate the immune system.
- Quillaia extracts are used in vaccines due to the presence of saponins in it.
- You may also use its extracts for agricultural purposes.
Side Effects Of Quillaia
It is very important to know that nothing in this world comes with a guarantee. Even if the things are completely natural, it is not a necessity that it should suit you.
Similarly, quillaia also has many side effects. Listed below are few of them.
- A high percentage of tannins can deplete your stomach and intestinal conditions. It can also cause damage to your kidney and liver.
- Quillaia contains chemicals which can lower the calcium level in your blood. This eventually leads to kidney stones.
- It can lead to serious breathing problems and convulsions.
- It can destroy your red blood cell count.
- Quillaia can disturb or damage the lining of your mouth and throat.
- Undergo a patch test to see it is safe on your skin or vagina.
- It can also cause allergies.
- It can be dangerous for pregnant or lactating women. This can be equally dangerous for the baby.
Dosages Of Quillaia
Finally, I will conclude my article by telling you about the dosages. Once that you know the side effects of quillaia, I will also let you know that it is not necessary that the dosage of the extract is same for everyone.
The Dose Can Depend On Multiple Points. Few Of Them Are
- Your age
- Your height
- Your weight
- If you are allergic to the bark
Few More Other Conditions
Though there is no scientific proof that can determine this quantity. This wholly depends on the capacity of your body. See a doctor other than finalizing the dosages for you.
Useful References:
1. Natural Standard – Quillaia Extract. https://naturalmedicines.therapeuticresearch.com
2. FDA Poisonous Plant Database. http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/Plantox/Detail.CFM?ID=4028.
3. WHO Food Additives Database. http://www.inchem.org/documents/jecfa/jecmono/v48je03.htm.
4. Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations. http://www.fao.org/fileadmin/templates/agns/pdf/jecfa/cta/61/QUILLAIA.pdf
5. Long-term toxicity study quillaia extract in rats. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7200053.
