Define some adverse effects of saponins?
The adverse effects of saponins may be described as under:
- A well-known toxic effect is 'erythrocyte lysis' since they interact with the cholesterol in the erythrocyte membrane.
- In mammals, intravenous administration causes local inflammation.
- In large doses, it results in death due to massive release of erthyrocyte debris.
- A reduction in oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.
- It can lyse other cells e.g. of the intestinal mucosa and thus affect nutrient absorption.
- High saponin intake results in decreased weight gain.