Made in India by using 50% neem oil and Citronella for an emollient, antiseptic and energising soap that is a joy to use. This soap has been developed by OneVillage in partnership with the Palam Rural Centre. This soap is an excellent everyday soap especially for problem skin.
It does not contain sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS)- a known skin and eye irritant often present in soaps- no parabens, triclosan or artificial perfumes.
Palam Rural Centre was set up as a charitable community of 'lower-caste' Indians and has evolved into a society for the common good of those who live and work in the community, functioning as a small village. Members of the community live in individual houses on the land, and maintain a village school. Over the years, many people in the area have abandoned the countryside and taken jobs in factories- principally in the local knitwear industry. The industry consumes a large quantities of water for the bleaching and dying of textiles and rural communities such as Palam are feeling the effects as it becomes more difficult to get enough water for basic needs like cooking, washing and drinking. Life is not easy in the community, but the quality of life remains high and the spirit strong- and this will continue as long as their products have a market.
OneVillage was set up in 1979 to work in partnership with organizations with a social foundation, such as Palam Rural Community, to encourage equal opportunities and provide lasting solidarity. They have worked with Palam to develop soaps with no artificial fragrance and, instead of cheap fat and chemicals, rely on a wholesome base of beneficial vegetable oils.
How the soap is made:
The oils for the soap are measured out and mixed together and then heated. Once they have been heated, sodium hydroxide and salt are added. This causes the fats to saponify- and the process is repeated 3-4 times to make sure all the oil reacts. The soap is then allowed to cool and set in a block. The top of the block contains insoluble impurities known as the crust, whilst at the bottom is what is called «nigre» which also contains unwanted impurities and alkaline in the form of caustic soda and salt. Sandwiched between top and bottom is what is called «neat» soap and this is the basis for the production of this soap.
But even this part of the block includes some alkaline salts and the pH is too high to use on the skin. So at this point in the process, a small quantity of fine grade fatty acid in the form of coconut oil extract is added and the substance once again gently heated. Coconut oil is the best ingredient for this purpose, and at the same time it is a beneficial oil for the skin. Great care is essential at this stage because too much acidity, or too much salt, can both be harmful. The final pH of the soap must be between 9–10.5.
But over time the essential oils and extracts (Citronella, Sandalwood) are liable to disappear or evaporate due to ageing, light, or temperature variations, and for the same reasons the essential base of natural vegetable oils is itself also at risk from becoming unpleasantly rancid. To prevent these unwelcome effects, a preservative is included in the form of citric acid and zinc oxide in conformity with European and international standards.
Less than 0.002%: Citric acid, Sodium hydroxide, Zinc oxide, Sodium chloride.
*sustainably sourced
Neem oil is one of Natures most remarkable oils- especially good for skin complaints. It is rich in compounds such as nimbidin, nimbin and quercetin that work as natural anti-inflammatories and anti-histamines. This helps reduce redness, swelling and itching. This soap uses 50% neem oil in the recipe.
Mohua oil; is also used (more than 12% of the soap).The healing properties of this natural oil help to restore skin flexibility.
Neem is especially recommended to work against eczema, acne, and problem dry skin, including situations where other soaps are not normally acceptable. In India, neem is commonly described as «the destroyer of all ailments»
Our neem soap also includes nearly 2% pure natural citronella – a lemon-scented oil that has anti-bacterial, anti-septic, and other benefits. It is an aromatic energizer. In the tropics, natural citronella is also appreciated as an effective insect repellent and in our soap it helps neutralize aroma. Palm and coconut oils also contribute to this excellent soap.
This has a lovely consistency and scent. It has Mohua oils in it too, a long known antiseptic, moisturiser for skin in Indian villages. It leaves my skin soft and has stopped all itchy dry patches. It works really well for removing all dirt after gardening without harsh scrubbing in comparison to anything else I have used previously.
Orders placed before 2.00pm will be despatched the same working day with Royal Mail. Choose between priority Tracked 24h delivery (£6.00) and standard 48h Tracked delivery (£4.50).
FREE delivery for mainland UK orders over £50.00 (excluding delivery).
If for any reason you are dissatisfied with items you have bought from us, you can return them in their original condition within 30 days for a full refund. All items must be unopened and in their original condition in order to qualify for this refund.
For full details, please check our Delivery and Returns pages.
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