Improve your soaps with essential oils

History of soap making

The oldest evidence of soap making is a recipe inscribed on a tablet dating back to 2200 B.C. in Mesopotamia. The Egyptians and Romans took it from there, and during the eighth and ninth centuries, the Italians and Spanish perfected the art. The Lever brothers became the first to invent and sell soap flakes in 1884. Today, most people buy their soap but a few still practice the art of soap making.

What are essential oils?

Essential oils are concentrated liquids with aromatic properties derived from plants. Essential oils are used in perfume, soap, and aromatherapy treatments. Many essential oils are heavily concentrated and require a carrier oil to protect the skin.

Sandalwood oil

Sandalwood oil comes from the wood of the Sandalum album, an evergreen tree in India. Sandalwood oil is often used in perfumes and soaps. It has a woodsy, exotic base scent and complements frankincense, jasmine, and geranium. It is warm and relaxing and often used in aromatherapy. It helps with medical and psychological conditions including bronchitis, skin conditions, stress, and low self-esteem. It is antibacterial and can used as an astringent for acne. This makes it a good choice for a facial soap.

Making soap with essential oils

Using soap infused with essential oils can provide benefits similar to aromatherapy candles. The
difference is that they can also help and pamper your skin. There are benefits to making your own soap with essential oils rather than buying it. Not only will you save money, but you can also choose exactly what goes into your soap. Choosing different ingredient combinations and decorations for your soap is creative and fun.

Making your own soap is easier than you may think. It is a chemical process, but you don’t need an A in chemistry to do it. You only need four basic ingredients to start. You will need four ounces of unscented glycerin soap. The soap must be unscented so it doesn’t conflict with the scents of the oils you’ll be using.

You will also need three drops of food coloring, a mold for your soap, and 10-15 drops of your essential oil. You can choose from lavender oil, rose oil, eucalyptus oil, sandalwood oil, and more! Some oils, such as peppermint should not be used on the skin. Many essential oils useful for other purposes are toxic to the body. Take caution and research the oils you want to use.

The glycerin acts as a base and natural moisturizer. Melt the unscented glycerin soap to a high temperature with a double broiler. Pour it in with the essential oil and food coloring. Mix it together and add to the soap mold. Once bubbles form, add rubbing alcohol to the mold. You must let the soap sit for 45 minutes before putting aside for several hours to. Enjoy your soap!

Bulk Apothecary is a national brand of great soap products and other essential oils. For years they have supplied hundreds of consumers and businesses with high quality products. Jeremy Thorne has been involved in helping to expand the company and has enjoyed his time with the company.