What the heck are Soap Nut Berries and why are they in my soap??
At CSS, we use soap nut berries in every batch of soap. See below to find out what they are and why we choose to use them. AND NO, THEY'RE NOT NUTS (they're berries). I know confusing but I didn't name them ...
Here is what Edge Co-Pilot (generative AI chat interface) tells us about these delightful berries:
Soap nut berries, commonly referred to as soap nuts or soapberries, are fruits of the Sapindus tree found in warm areas such as India and Nepal. Despite their name, they are berries, not nuts. The berry shells contain saponin, a natural substance that produces suds in water, functioning as a natural detergent.
These berries, known for their eco-friendly and biodegradable properties, have served as a cleaning agent for thousands of years. They are frequently utilized as a substitute for chemical detergents in laundry and personal care products such as shampoos and soaps. Soap nuts are mild on the skin, making them appropriate for individuals with sensitive conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Beyond their cleaning properties, soap nut berries are valued for their eco-friendliness. After use, they can be composted, resulting in zero waste, and they typically grow without the need for pesticides due to the natural insect-repellent properties of saponins. This has made them a favored option for individuals aiming to lessen their ecological footprint and avoid harsh and strong chemicals in their cleaning practices.
Soap nut berries are valued for their skin benefits. Recognized for their gentle, hypoallergenic qualities, they do not dry out the skin. The following are some advantages they provide for skincare:
- Moisturizing: Soap nut berries possess natural conditioning properties that aid in skin hydration. They are abundant in vitamins A, E, K, and D, which are essential for protecting the skin from damage and promoting its health. They assist in detoxifying impurities and clearing pores, contributing to a natural radiance.
- Gentle on Skin: Soap nuts are hypoallergenic and gentle on the skin, making them a great addition for people with sensitive skin or allergies.
- Antibacterial and Antifungal: they possess antibacterial and antifungal properties which can help with keeping the skin clean and healthy,
- No Residue: Unlike synthetic detergents, soap nuts leave no residue on the skin which can be beneficial for maintaining the skin's natural balance.
These benefits make soap nut berries a valuable ingredient for cold process soap and a GREAT natural alternative to many synthetic skin care product ingredients. They're eco-friendly because they're biodegradable and environmentally friendly. This makes Soap Nut Berries a great natural and sustainable choice for those looking to reduce their ecological footprint.
And that is why we at CSS choose to use Soap Nut Berries in YOUR products. They're good for your skin and good for the environment :)
Well, that's all fine and well Cheryl but how are the soap nut berries incorporated into the soap you make? GREAT question! We add them, along with other lye water enhancements to our distilled water. We then add the lye which heats everything up to 200+ degrees. The Soap Nut Berries release their delicious properties into the water as it cools to room temperature. We then strain out what's left of the Soap Nut Berries and add the lye mixture to our oils to start transforming them into your soap.
Don't take our word for it, ask your friendly, neighborhood generative AI engine (Co-Pilot, ChatGPT, etc.) ...
'til next time ...
XXX
Cheryl