Castile soap is a natural soap made from olive oil, known for its softening properties and for being suitable for sensitive skin. This soap is ideal for all skin types, especially the most delicate, and can be used for both personal hygiene and household cleaning.
Ingredients (for approximately 1.5 kg of soap):
- 1 kg extra virgin olive oil
- 430 g distilled water
- 167 g caustic soda
- 5 g salt
- Optional: essential oils (lavender, eucalyptus, etc.) for scent.
Traditional production:
- In a glass or stainless steel container, add the caustic soda to the distilled water, mixing slowly and carefully. Remember to do this step in a well-ventilated place and with adequate protection (goggles and gloves), as the soda reacts by generating heat and vapours.
- When the soda and water mixture has cooled slightly, slowly pour it over the olive oil. Stir with a spatula or whisk at low speed until the mixture thickens and reaches the "trace", i.e. a cream-like consistency.
- If you want a scented soap, now is the time to add a few drops of the essential oil of your choice. Mix well to distribute the scent evenly.
- Pour the mixture into silicone moulds or a container lined with baking paper. Smooth the surface and leave to set for 24-48 hours until the soap solidifies.
- Crumble the soap and cut it into bars of the desired size. Allow the bars to cure in a cool, dry place for at least 4-6 weeks before use. This curing time allows the soap to lose excess soda and become gentler on the skin.
Preparation time:
- Approximately 1 hour (plus 4-6 weeks curing).
Additional advice:
- Always use wooden, glass or stainless steel utensils, as soda may react with other materials.
- For a more decorative finish, you can add dried flowers, such as lavender, to the moulds before pouring the mixture.
- Warning: Although it may look like a delicious white cheese, remember that this is a soap. Keep it out of reach of children to avoid confusion.
Preparation (Thermomix method):
- In a separate container (not in the Thermomix), add the caustic soda to the distilled water and mix slowly and carefully. This step should be done in a well-ventilated place and using adequate protection (goggles and gloves). Let the mixture cool (because it will have been heated by the chemical reaction) until it reaches a temperature of about 40°C.
- Pour the olive oil into the Thermomix mixing bowl and program 5 minutes at 40°C, speed 3 to slightly heat the oil.
- With the Thermomix running on speed 3, slowly pour the soda and water solution through the nozzle. Mix for 2 minutes on speed 3 until it thickens and reaches the "trace". If not, mix for 30 " on speed 8.
- If you wish to add essential oils, do so at this point and mix for 1 minute on speed 2.
- Pour the mixture into silicone moulds or a container lined with baking paper. Leave to set for 24-48 hours until the soap solidifies.
- Crumble the soap and cut it into bars. Let the bars cure in a cool, dry place for at least 4-6 weeks before use.
Dare to prepare this natural soap and take care of your skin with simple ingredients and no harsh chemicals! Ideal as a gift or for daily use by the whole family.
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