Quillaja saponaria, commonly known as the soapbark tree, is a species native to central Chile. It is recognized for its tall stature, reaching up to 15 meters, and its distinctive, peeling bark. The tree produces saponins, natural compounds that create a foamy texture when mixed with water, which is why it is often used in traditional soap-making. The saponins extracted from Quillaja saponaria have various applications, including in the food industry as emulsifiers and in cosmetics for their foaming properties. Additionally, these compounds are studied for their potential medicinal benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.