SOAP NUTS (REETHA) - 1 lb

Soapnuts are 100% natural and contain no chemical additives, which make them a great choice for anyone with sensitive skin. They work because their shell contains a substance called "saponins" which when added to water reacts like soap. The outer shell of the soap nut gives up a soapy substance (Saponin) when it comes into contact with water. The inner seed is hard and black and contains no saponin. Therefore it is best to crack the shells and discard the seed (before using the soap nuts). Whole soapnuts (including seeds) can be used and disposed off later if desired. Washing and Bathing

Soapnut powder can be used to wash the entire body and hair replacing the need for soaps, shower gels, shampoos and, in most cases conditioners and moisturisers. Skin is left soft, smooth and more resistant to infections an insect bites. The powder also has a deodorising effect.

4 oz of soapnuts will make approximately 2.5 Quarts of Soapnut Juice. Instructions on how to make this can be found below. Soapnut juice can be used for many purposes.

• As a gentle natural hair shampoo
• When you think you've extracted all the saponin, throw the Soapnuts (excluding seeds) in your blender with a bit of water and you'll have a wonderful 'liquid soap’ for the hand basin.

Hair washed with soapnut feels thicker and healthier and brushing it can make the hair really shine. It may even reduce dandruff and prevent hair loss. The longer you use the powder to wash your hair, the less you will need to use as the residual chemicals are removed.

As there are no chemical foaming agents added, the soap nut shampoo does not lather which may take some getting used to but, which ever way you choose to use it, you will enjoy the results every time!

How to Make Soapnut Juice:

1. Pour approx. 1 quart of water into a cooking pot
2. Add about 50g (handful) cracked soap nuts (excluding seeds)
3. Cover and boil, then simmer for approximately 30 minutes. The boiling process extracts the saponin from the nut shells and combines with the water.
4. Let the infusion cool and you can use it immediately, or let it steep overnight. Strain into appropriate container. The liquid that is left can then be used as shampoo, all purpose cleaner, car wash, liquid soap, pet shampoo, washing up liquid and many other uses. The soapnut infusion is theoretically suitable for every kind of cleaning - even wash your car with it!