Family: Rosaceae

Genus: Quillaja

Species: saponaria

Common Names: Quillaia, kilaya, quillaja, soapbark tree,
murillo bark, Panama wood

General Description: Quillaja is a large evergreen South American shrub. It is native to Chile and Peru, and is now grown in India and California. Its leaves are thick and shiny and the tree grows to heights of 60 feet and canopy spread of 22 feet.

Uses: Quillaja is a tool of artists; they use this herb to wash cloth, particularly silk, that most soap and detergents would damage. It is a natural cleanser that is so gentle it prevents stripping cloth and hair of natural oils and ingredients that protect.

Quillaja is an extract from the bark of the Quillaja tree. Its name comes from the Chilean word for soap. In tribal life and rituals, the bark extract is used for washing clothes, removing grease and spots from fabrics; now its use has extended to cleaning more delicate fabrics, such as ribbons, under garments and wool.

This tree is also known as 'soap bark tree'. The inner bark of the Quillaja tree has been known for centuries as an agent for washing clothes and bathing. It may be used topically on the skin as well. Quillaja bark extract has properties that break down excess scalp oil and may be used as a shampoo. It is a natural herb that soothes and may relieve itching and protect skin from dryness and cracking, as well as relieve insect bites.

Quillaja is cultivated in Chile in soil that may erode easily, and on steep slopes also to protect from erosion.

Disclaimer: The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.



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