Saponins Saponins are glycosides of triterpenoids or steroids. They are common in plants and are found in almost all groups of plants. Many saponins are piscicides, that is, they have the ability to stun fish. Saponins contribute to the toxicity of alfalfa and limit the usefulness of this forage crop in animal diets.
Saponins are also diverse in ginseng.
Many of the effects of this common drug plant are due to these compounds. The anti-inflammatory activity of English ivy, Hedera helix , also is due to compounds of this group. The sweet tasting compounds of licorice, Glycyrrhiza spp., are saponins. In large amount these compounds cause irregularities in heart action. Chewing the root of this plant blocks the sweet taste of sugar, saccharin and cyclamates for hours.