10 tips for caring for skin, hair & home with plant power

• Choose plant-based cleansing agents

Saponins are natural surfactants and clean textiles effectively without burdening the environment. Products based on chestnut, soapnut or ivy are ideal for anyone aiming to wash more sustainably. Many drugstores now offer plant-based detergents that use these active ingredients.

• Use soap nuts or soapwort as a detergent alternative

Soap nuts and soapwort contain particularly high levels of saponins and are excellent for gentle washes. They remove grease, dirt and odours reliably — even at low temperatures. Look for products with clearly stated plant extracts when shopping.

• Make your own liquid detergent from horse chestnuts

Crushed chestnuts release saponins during soaking that thoroughly clean your clothes. This method is cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Buy suitable linen bags or glass jars to store your chestnut solution hygienically.

• Use fresh ivy leaves for a simple washing option

Fresh ivy leaves also contain saponins and can be placed directly into the washing drum. They provide a particularly quick solution for lightly soiled laundry. Practical fabric bags for application are available at the drugstore.

• Clean surfaces with plant-based decoctions

A decoction of chestnut, ivy or soap nuts serves as a mild all-purpose cleaner. It removes grease and dirt without leaving irritating chemicals. For convenience, pharmacies already stock ready-made saponin cleaners with verified efficacy.

• Care for your skin with saponin-containing formulations

In care products, saponins act as antibacterial, foaming and skin-friendly agents. They support the natural barrier and improve the uptake of other active ingredients. On the shelf, look for products containing Glycisaponin or ivy, quillaja or primula root extracts.

• Use saponins specifically to reduce wrinkles

Saponins from soybeans can stimulate the body's own hyaluronic acid production. As a result, they have a plumping and smoothing effect — ideal for mature or moisture-deprived skin. Pharmacies offer high-quality serums and creams with standardized soy extracts.

• Ease the airways with mucolytic plants

Ivy, primula or soapwort preparations use the saponin-containing components to loosen mucus. They thin secretions and make coughing up easier. For colds, choose phytotherapeutic medicines with documented saponin activity.

• Use saponin-rich foods consciously

Legumes, quinoa, oats or spinach provide valuable saponins that can positively influence cholesterol levels. Washing or soaking, however, reduces irritating bitter compounds and improves tolerability.

• Boil soap nuts to make a versatile care decoction

A short boil produces a natural soapy solution that you can use as shower gel, shampoo or a mild household cleaner. For convenience, drugstores already sell ready-to-use soap nut concentrates for body, hair and home.