DIY: Soaps With Herbs

Give your skin an organic treat with a homemade herbal cleansing-bar

Herbs are not only useful for adding flavour in the kitchen – many of them have skin-loving properties, too. To enjoy their natural beauty benefits without all those colours, preservatives and unpronounceable chemicals getting in the way – why not make you’re very own 100% organic herbal soap?

Which herbs to choose

Use the following herbs alone, or create your own bespoke mix to suit your skin type:

  • Thyme: Anti-inflammatory – ideal for acne prone skin.
  • Basil: Antibacterial – a great skin rejuvenator.
  • Rosemary: An antidote to chronic skin conditions, such as eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis.

  • Lavender: Boost circulation for a healthy glow.

  • Aloe Vera: The ultimate soother for inflamed, irritated or sunburnt skin.

Aloe Vera Soap

 

What you’ll need:

  • A handful of herbs
  • Hand blender
  • Coffee filter papers
  • Clean, dry recycled household containers (cartons, boxes and tubs)
  • Microwaveable measuring jug
  • Vegetable oil spray
  • Glycerin soap base (available from craft shops)
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Paring knife

Homemade Soaps with Herbs
Copyright: motherearthliving.com

Method:

  1. Wash your herbs and dry thoroughly. Place in a bowl with a tablespoon of water and blend to a purée.
  2. To establish the amount of soap base you need for each mould (container), fill with water to the desired level (depending how thick you want your soap). Pour the water into a measuring jug and write the quantity on the side of each mould.
  3. Discard the water, dry the moulds thoroughly and spray the inside of each one evenly with the oil spray, to prevent the soap from sticking.
  4. Chop the soap base into ½-inch cubes, place in the measuring jug with a paper towel over the top and microwave in 30-second bursts until melted, but not boiling. Keep adding soap pieces to reach the desired amount. You may need to work in batches.
  5. Allow the soap base to cool but not solidify then add the desired amount of herb purée and pour into your containers.
  6. Spray the top of the soap to get rid of any air bubbles then let the soaps set for an hour. Transfer to the freezer for a further two hours then remove the soaps from the moulds.
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