Saponin is a non-ionic glycoside surfactant from plants. The detergent forms oil-in-water emulsions and acts as protective colloid.It is used in cell permeabilization, separation of low molecular weight contaminants, and as an adjuvant in vaccine development. Saponin is a non-ionic glycoside surfactant from plants. The detergent forms oil-in-water emulsions and acts as protective colloid.It is used in cell permeabilization, separation of low molecular weight contaminants, and as an adjuvant in vaccine development.