This is day 16 of my 30 day blogging challenge. My goal this month is to post one recipe every day. These recipes feature natural colorants and additives and are scented using natural essential oil blends.

Chickweed and Witch Hazel Powder Cold Process Soap

They will all fit into a 10″ silicone loaf mold (affiliate link http://www.brambleberry.com/10-Silicone-Loaf-Mold–P5199.aspx?bb=5) from Bramble Berry. So let’s get started!

chickweed soap

Featured Ingredients:

Chickweed Powder – Chickweed is a widespread herb found in many regions and is edible with many medicinal uses. Chickweed is high in vitamins and minerals. The powder turns soap a tan/yellow color.

Witch Hazel Leaf Powder – Witch hazel leaf powder has been traditionally used to make tonics and salves to sooth skin irritations.

Chickweed and Witch Hazel Powder Cold Process Soap

Coconut oil – 10 oz.
Cocoa butter – 2 oz.
Olive oil – 12 oz.
Avocado oil – 4 oz.
Castor oil – 4 oz.

Lye – 4.5 oz.
Water – 9 oz.

Additives:
Witch Hazel Leaf Powder – 2 teaspoons
Chickweed Powder – 2 teaspoons

Essential Oil Blend:

Cassia Essential Oil – 10 grams
Anise Essential Oil – 15 grams
Peppermint Essential Oil – 10 grams
Lavender Essential Oil – 5 grams
Patchouli Essential Oil – 5 grams
Sweet Fennel Essential Oil – 5 grams
Litsea Essential Oil – 10 grams

Basic Soapmaking Process:

New to soapmaking? Visit our basic tutorial here.

Step 1 – Wearing safety gear, weigh out the lye and water into two separate containers.

Step 2 – Pour the lye into the water while stirring. Place in a safe place and let cool while you prepare the oils.

Step 3 – Weigh out the hard oils/butters and melt.

Step 4 – Weigh the liquid oils into the melted oils/butters. This helps cool the oils down.

Step 5 – Add essential oils and additives to the melted oils. Stick-blend to get rid of clumps if any occur.

Step 6 – Once both the lye solution and oils have cooled to under 100° F, add the lye solution to the oils and mix to trace. Be sure to wear goggles and gloves!

Step 7 – Pour the soap into your mold.

Step 8 – Unmold, cut and cure your soap for at least 8 weeks.

 

Happy Soaping!

Amanda Gail