Friday, February 15, 2013

On my Soap Box

No this is not a political rant, but just what it states. Well perhaps a little social effect, but I am only human after all.

But soap is the word of the day. What makes it so special.

Why do we love it, and all the good things it can do for us?

There are many things that can be said about soaps, including the breakdown of all of the nutrients in the ingredients, but i have already spouted all those wonders before. Anti-wrinkle, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, and moisturizing.

However for me it is about two additional things. One is luxury, the other is economy.

Most of all the feel of relaxing in a hot bath or shower with a bar of homemade soap is one that can only be described as lavish. For a few dollars more then store bought you can have  a product that is better for you, the environment, and your since of being.

Hand made soaps can last longer then many of the interferer store brand soaps with more effect. And have a far wider selection of scents and oils to make your feel special and pampered.

Also the economy and environment are greatly benefited by this small item. Most large name companies involve so much machinery and processing not to mention transport it is hard to say the true effect it has on the planet. While small operations and home made soap can be made with as little as a pot and a mold. Even extra (waste) can be used for house hold uses (I use my extra soap base waste to make laundry detergent).

How ever the thing I find most beneficial is the influx into the small businesses. Large conglomeration create jobs, a wonderful thing, however majority of the money goes into the pockets of the rich. Helping the economy very little. While small business owners like soap makers put that money back into the surrounding area, keeping service jobs going, and much more. So as anyone whom tries to teach shop small and local will tell you a little in a small business will go a long way.

So it is amazing when one thinks about it. That luxury locally made soap you are looking at when you are in the gift shop or farmers market may hold more power in it then just good skin and relaxation.