Reetha (Sapindus mukorossi)

Arishtak in Ayurveda and “Soap nut tree” in India are other names for Reetha or Soapnuts.^(HR/1)

It is widely used as a hair cleaner and is well-known for its traditional therapeutic uses. Because it makes hair bright, healthy, and lustrous, reetha is widely utilised in natural hair care products. It can be applied to the hair scalp on a daily basis to nourish it and encourage hair regeneration. Due to its insecticidal properties, reetha powder can be mixed with warm water to make a paste that can be used to massage the scalp to help treat dandruff and eradicate lice from the scalp.The powders of Amla and Reetha can be applied to the hair to help prevent greying and stimulate hair growth. You can boil Reetha powder in water until it’s reduced to half its original volume, then use it as a body wash because it’s beneficial for the skin. Due to its Tridosha function, it also helps control skin problems including eczema, psoriasis, and pimples, according to Ayurveda (Vatta Pitta Kaph balancing property). Because it speeds wound healing and prevents secondary infections, reetha decoction (Kadha) may also be used as a wound cleaner. Reetha water should not be used on sensitive areas such as the eyes because it can cause redness and swelling of the eyelids.

Reetha is also known as :- Sapindus mukorossi, Haithaguti, Ritha, Aritha, Dodan, Kanmar, Rithe, Thali, Phenila, Urista, Kunkudu, Krishvarn, Arthsaadhan, Rakhtbeej, Peetfan, Phenil, Garbpatan, Guchfaal, Areetha, Ita, Kunkute kayi, Ponnan kottai, Rithegach, Rittha , Dodan, Soapnut tree, Chinese soapberry, Finduk-e-hindi, Haithguti, Funake farasi, Arishtak

Reetha is obtained from :- Plant

Uses and benefits of Reetha:-

As per several scientific studies, uses and benefits of Reetha (Sapindus mukorossi) are mentioned as per below^(HR/2)

• Intestinal Worms : Reetha aids in the eradication of intestinal worms. Worms are referred to as Krimi in Ayurveda. Worm growth is aided by low Agni levels (weak digestive fire). Reetha helps to increase the digestive fire and eliminate the optimum environment for worm growth. Because of its Tikta (bitter) and Tikshna (sharp) qualities, it aids in the removal of worms.
• Asthma : Reetha aids in the management of asthma symptoms and provides relief from shortness of breath. The main doshas associated in asthma, according to Ayurveda, are Vata and Kapha. In the lungs, vitiated ‘Vata’ joins with disturbed ‘Kapha dosha,’ obstructing the respiratory path. Breathing becomes difficult as a result of this. Swas Roga is the name for this disorder (Asthma). Due to its Ushna (hot) nature, Reetha aids in the balance of Tridosha and the removal of excess mucus from the lungs.
• Obesity : Weight gain is caused by poor eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle, which results in a weakened digestive tract. This leads to a rise in Ama buildup, generating an imbalance in the Meda dhatu and, as a result, obesity. Due to its Ushna (hot) and Tikshna (sharp) qualities, Reetha aids in weight management. It also aids in the removal of excess fluid and toxins from the body by improving metabolism and clearing blockages in the circulatory system.
• Flatulence : The Vata and Pitta doshas are out of balance, resulting in flatulence. Low digestive fire due to low Pitta dosha and increased Vata dosha impairs digestion. Gas production or flatulence is caused by a problem with digestion. Reetha aids in the recovery of sluggish digestion. Due to its Ushna (hot) potency, it increases Agni (digestive fire) and removes excess gas due to its Vata balancing effect.
• Dandruff : Dandruff, according to Ayurveda, is a scalp disease characterised by flakes of dry skin. This could be caused by an imbalanced Vata and Pitta dosha. Reetha’s Tridosha balancing property helps to control dandruff and promote hair growth. Reetha’s Tikshna (sharp) nature also helps to maintain the scalp clear of dandruff. a. Mix Reetha powder with warm water to make a paste. b. Massage into the scalp and hair. c. Massage in a circular motion to create lather. d. Leave for a few minutes before rinsing with plain water to get rid of dandruff.
• Skin itching : Itching can be caused by both dryness (Vat) and cyst development (Kapha). Excessive perspiration can make the skin itchy (Pitta). Itching is caused by all three Doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha). Because of its Tridosha balancing properties, Reetha aids in the reduction of itching and inflammation. a. Take a spoonful or two of Reetha powder. c. Combine with 2-3 glasses of water. c. Boil until the water has been reduced by half. d. Strain the liquid and use it as a body wash to relieve skin itching.
• Head Lice : Lice are tiny insects that live on the head. Excess sweat, filth on the scalp, or any shampoo/soap residue on the scalp are all conducive to head lice development and survival. Due to its Tikshna (sharp) nature, Reetha helps to eradicate lice by removing the ideal conditions and cleaning the scalp. a. Mix Reetha powder with warm water to make a paste. b. Massage into the scalp and hair. c. Massage in a circular motion to create lather. d. To get rid of head lice, leave for a while and then rinse with plain water.
• Arthritis : When administered to the affected area, Reetha helps to treat bone and joint pain. The bones and joints are considered a Vata location in the body, according to Ayurveda. Vata imbalance is the primary cause of joint pain. Because of its Ushan (hot) potency and Vata balancing properties, Reetha helps to relieve joint discomfort. a. Mix Reetha powder with warm water to make a paste. b. Apply the cream to the affected region and keep it on for 1-2 hours. c. To relieve joint pain, rinse with simple water.

Video Tutorial

Precautions to be taken while using Reetha:-

As per several scientific studies, below precautions should to be taken while taking Reetha (Sapindus mukorossi)^(HR/3)

• Take Reetha in recommended dose and duration, as a high dose can lead to a burning sensation in the stomach due to its hot potency.
• Avoid Reetha or take under medical supervision if you have excessive Pitta in the body.
• Use Reetha(Soapnut) powder after diluting with plain water if your skin is hypersensitive.
• Avoid the use of Reetha water on sensitive parts like eyes because it may cause redness and swelling of the eyelids.

Special precautions to be taken while taking Reetha:-

As per several scientific studies, below special precautions should to be taken while taking Reetha (Sapindus mukorossi)^(HR/4)

• Breastfeeding : Due to the Ushna virya in Reetha, it should be avoided or used under medical supervision during lactation (hot potency).
• Pregnancy : Due to the Ushna virya in Reetha, it should be avoided or used under medical supervision during pregnancy (hot potency).

How to take Reetha:-

As per several scientific studies, Reetha (Sapindus mukorossi) can be taken into the methods mentioned as per below^(HR/5)

• Reetha Powder : Take half to one teaspoon of Reetha powder. Add some increased water to it as well as massage therapy carefully over the skin. Wash extensively with fresh water. Use this treatment one to two times a day for reliable cleaning of skin.
• Reetha, Amla & Shikakai Paste : Take Reetha, Amla and Shikakai powder. Add some water to form a paste. Apply this paste on hair and wait on five to six hours. Wash your hair extensively with simple great water. Use this treatment one to two times a week, and proceed for two to three months for smooth, dandruff as well as lice free hairs.

How much Reetha should be taken:-

As per several scientific studies, Reetha (Sapindus mukorossi) should be taken into the amounts mentioned as per below^(HR/6)

• Reetha Powder : Half to one teaspoon or as per your requirement.

Side effects of Reetha:-

As per several scientific studies, below side effects need to be taken into consideration while taking Reetha (Sapindus mukorossi)^(HR/7)

• There is not enough scientific data available about side effects of this herb yet.

Questions asked frequently Related to the Reetha:-

Question. Can I use Reetha with Amla?

Answer. Yes, combining Reetha and Amla powders and applying them to the hair and scalp stimulates hair growth and helps control grey hair. 1. Take 1-2 tablespoons of Amla powder in a small bowl. 2. Add 1-2 tablespoons Reetha powder to the mixture. 3. Mix in enough water to make a smooth paste. 4. Distribute evenly over the hair and scalp. 5. Set aside for 4-5 hours to allow the flavours to meld. 6. Thoroughly rinse with tap water.

Question. Where will I find Reetha?

Answer. Reetha is sold in a variety of forms, including shampoo, powder, and soapnuts. These items are available under a variety of brand names. Choose a product and a brand based on your needs and preferences.

Question. Is it okay to use Reetha (soapnut) every day for hair wash?

Answer. Yes, Reetha can be used to wash your hair every day. Its cleansing properties aid in the removal of greasy secretions from the scalp, as well as the formation of a rich and natural lather.

Question. Can Reetha lead to Acidity?

Answer. Because of its Ushna (hot) potency, Reetha can produce acidity.

Question. Is Reetha good for liver?

Answer. Reetha may be beneficial to the liver. Certain substances in it protect the liver cells from injury and fat formation.

Question. Can Reetha worsen the wound?

Answer. No, the wound is cleaned with Reetha decoction. Because of its Tikshna (sharp) quality, it speeds up the healing process and prevents secondary infections.

SUMMARY

It is widely used as a hair cleaner and is well-known for its traditional therapeutic uses. Because it makes hair bright, healthy, and lustrous, reetha is widely utilised in natural hair care products.