What Is Castile Soap & Where Can I Find it?

Castile soap is made from vegetable oil, mainly olive oil. Unlike most commercial soap, it is an all-natural product that does not include animal fat or synthetic substances. Castile soap is available in several brand names and scents.

Oils

Traditionally, castile soap has been made only from olive oil, but variants use coconut, jojoba, palm and other oils in addition to olive oil. These variants typically include 60 to 80 percent olive oil.

Considerations

Castile soap created exclusively from olive oil generally is more oily than other versions. Unless people have very dry skin, they might prefer one of the variants.

Uses

Castile, especially in liquid form, is good as facial and bath soap. It's also good as a shampoo, laundry soap and dishwashing liquid. Castile soap also works for bathing pets. It might be especially beneficial for people allergic to commercial soaps.

History

People first developed hard soaps in the 12th century, according to Morris Bishop in his 2001 book "The Middle Ages." Since these soaps were primarily made in olive-growing regions of Spain, they gained the name castile from the Castilla region.

Availability

Castile soap is available at natural food and health food stores, and online. If you're feeling creative, you can make castile soap at home, using one of the many recipes available at different websites.

References

• History of Soap
• Castile Soap for Green Living