Facts on Loofah Sponges
Loofah sponges, also spelled luffa based on the scientific genus name, come from luffa sponge gourds. A significant number of consumers favor their rough, slightly abrasive exteriors and use them to exfoliate their skin while bathing. Does this Spark an idea?
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Growth
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The loofah plant is in the same group of plants that includes cucumbers, gourds and pumpkins. The flowers on the loofah vine develop into round green fruits that become seedpods upon pollination. The plants' internal caverns are full of cellulose fibers. The loofah sponge is revealed when the exterior peel is removed.
Countries of Origin
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The first loofah sponges sold in the United States came almost exclusively from China. As their popularity grew, Columbia, Guatemala, Korea, Taiwan, Venezuela and El Salvador started growing and exporting loofahs. Several U.S. states now grow loofahs, with Florida and North Carolina leading in domestic loofah production.
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Other Uses
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Since loofahs have a uniquely gentle abrasive quality, they are popular for cleaning items that benefit from scrubbing but have sensitive surfaces that cannot withstand steel wool or metal scrubbing pads. These products include cars, boats and non-stick cookware.
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References
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