Whole Reetha (Soapnuts) — ریٹھا

Description

Whole Reetha / Soapnuts (ریٹھا)

Reetha is the dried soapnut fruit commonly associated with Sapindus mukorossi Gaertn., in the Sapindaceae family. Common names include Reetha, Ritha, Aritha, Soapnut, Soapberry, Washnut and Indian Soapberry. This product is sold whole, rather than as ready-made shampoo or hair oil.

Hair cleansing benefits

Soapnut fruit shells contain saponins, plant compounds that foam in water and help cleanse. Reetha is traditionally used to wash hair and remove surface dirt and excess oil. Research on formulated shampoos supports its usefulness as a cleansing ingredient, but does not prove that raw reetha regrows hair or treats scalp disease.

Traditional hair care combinations

Reetha is often combined with amla and shikakai in traditional hair washes. It also appears in herbal hair oil recipes. Its cleansing role is best understood in a water-based wash; adding reetha to an oil does not establish an anti-hair-fall effect. Amla, shikakai and other ingredients can be requested through our custom formula service, subject to availability.

How to prepare a rinse-off hair wash

Rinse the fruits, crack them carefully and remove the hard seeds. Soak the shells in clean water, simmer gently, let the liquid cool completely and strain well. Test a small amount before first use. Apply cautiously to wet hair, keeping it away from the face, and rinse thoroughly. Strength and amount depend on your hair and scalp; discontinue if it feels too drying or causes irritation.

Prepare small amounts for immediate use. A homemade water extract is not a preserved shampoo and should not be stored at room temperature for repeated use. Do not add water or a water extract to stored hair oil without a properly designed preservation system.

Precautions

For external use only; do not swallow. Avoid eyes, broken skin and an irritated scalp. Rinse eyes promptly with plenty of clean water if contact occurs, and seek care if irritation persists. Patch test first and stop use if burning, redness or itching develops. Keep out of children’s reach. Persistent hair loss, severe dandruff or scalp inflammation needs professional assessment.

Pack sizes and prices

• 250 g (1 pao): Rs. 150
• 500 g (half kg): Rs. 300
• 750 g (3 pao): Rs. 450
• 1000 g (1 kg): Rs. 600

Storage and related products

Keep the dry fruit in an airtight container away from moisture and sunlight. Browse our Hair Care collection, Herbs collection and Dried Unnab (Jujube). Order from Awaisia Pansar in Faisalabad, with delivery across Pakistan.

Sources and further reading

• Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew: Sapindus mukorossi — botanical identity
• Jadhav et al. (2026): formulation and evaluation of a reetha-based herbal shampoo
• International Botanical Congress: evaluation of a plant-based shampoo containing soapnut saponins
• Karachi Pansar: example of a traditional amla, reetha and shikakai blend (retailer reference)