Saponin dosage

allows Saponin analysis for the determination of the content of natural amphiphilic compounds found in numerous plants, such as ginseng (Panax ginseng), quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa), licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) , and soybeans (Glycine max). These molecules, composed of a triterpenic or steroidal aglycone and a sugar chain, are known for their foaming, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and adaptogenic properties.

Their dosage is essential for the characterization of plant extracts, the standardization of nutraceutical products, and the quality control of food and pharmaceutical formulations.

Analytical methods: colorimetry, HPLC and LC-MS

The choice of method depends on the level of precision required and the type of saponins (total or specific):

• Vanillin-sulfuric colorimetric method : used for the overall quantification of total saponins, this method is based on the formation of a colored complex measured by spectrophotometry.
• HPLC (High Performance Liquid Chromatography) : allows the separation and quantification of specific saponins (e.g., ginsenosides, sapogenins).
• LC-MS (Liquid Chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry) : offers fine identification and ultra-sensitive detection, suitable for complex extracts or formulation studies.

These analyses are carried out according to standardized protocols, in compliance with ISO 17025 standards and the requirements of European regulations on plant and nutraceutical products.

Industrial and scientific applications

Saponin analysis has applications in many sectors:

• Nutraceuticals : standardization of plant extracts (ginseng, tribulus, fenugreek).
• Human and animal food : control of saponin content to limit bitter or anti-nutritional effects.
• Cosmetics : evaluation of the foaming and surfactant power of natural extracts.
• Research and pharmacognosy : study of the therapeutic potential of bioactive saponins.

This analysis can be combined with ginsenoside or gypenoside XVII assays for a more in-depth characterization of ginseng and adaptogenic plant extracts.

Matrices involved

YesWeLab's partner laboratories perform saponin analysis on:

• Dry or liquid extracts of medicinal plants
• Powders and food supplements
• Functional foods and nutraceutical formulations
• Plant-based raw materials and finished cosmetic products

Each protocol is adapted according to the matrix, the desired saponin profile and the level of analytical precision required.

YesWeLab's expertise

At YesWeLab, we collaborate with a network of ISO 17025 and COFRAC accredited laboratories, experts in phytochemical and nutraceutical analyses.

Our scientific team will assist you in choosing the most suitable method, managing the logistics of your samples and monitoring the results via our digital platform.

Since 2020, YesWeLab has been helping manufacturers, distributors and design offices to guarantee the quality, compliance and traceability of their plant-based products.

Order a saponin analysis

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