Modern washing machines go Indian and eco-friendly

London, Dec 6: New age washing machines are now using the age-old Indian way of cleaning clothes which is eco-friendly. The ''E- wash'' by Eletrolux is designed to work with soapnuts (areetha), natural seeds which have been used in India and other parts of Asia to clean clothes for hundreds of years, the Daily Mail reported.

The manufacturers say the nuts are much healthier for the planet than chemical powders, liquids or tablets.

Henrik Otton, head of global design for Electrolux, said: ''E-wash is a brilliant connection between ancient knowledge and technology.'' ''It takes an open-minded person to seek out solutions from one culture and apply them to another,'' he added.

Soapnuts, Sapindus mukorossi, are one of 100 species of plants that contain the soapy substance saponin.

The shells of the nuts can be crushed and mixed with water or added to the washing in a bag.

They are apparently good for those with allergies and are gentle on clothes.

UNI