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The Ultimate Glossary of Terms About Organic Castile Soap

Updated: Jul 12, 2023


My Dear Reader,


If you're a frequent reader of my blog, you know that I talk very passionately about Whole Naturals Castile Soap. Recently, I was asked to explain some of the terms that I use when describing the benefits of our soap. I'm happy to oblige!


Castile Soap - How'd it get its name?

Traditionally, Castile Soap was made from olive oil, found in the Castile region of Spain, in the Mediterranean. . Over time, its commercial usage spread and additional oils were added. whole Naturals Castile Soap is made from a variety of organic oils including Organic Olive Oil, Organic Castor Oil, Organic Argan Oil, Organic Jojoba Oil, Organic Hemp Oil, Organic USP Vegetable Glycerin (Flaxseed Derived) Organic Almond Sweet Oil, Organic Apricot Kernel Oil, and Organic Prickly Pear Oil.


Organic - What makes the Whole Naturals Organic Soap Company Organic?

As an informed customer, you want to make sure that you're making the best choices for you and your loved ones. Buying a soap with organic certification means that it meets requirements for organic growing, production, handling, storage, and processing practices and is guaranteed to be free of toxic pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), sewage sludge, and irradiation.


Palm Oil Free - Why is that Important?

We are passionate about our environment, and producing our Castile Soap gives us tremendous pride in knowing that we were tenacious and would not give up our commitment to make a product that was certified palm oil free. Here are some revelations about the continued use of Palm Oil:

  • Climate Change: The only way to produce palm oil, is to cut down rainforests. Deforestation is a major contributor to climate change.

  • Environmental Impact: Burning forests cause extreme air pollution levels forcing communities to stay indoors to protect themselves from smoke

  • Wildlife: When you think of palm oil, you may envision the orangutan on the logo of Palm-Oil Free products, but deforestation of habitat has also critically endangered other mammals such as elephants, rhinos, and tigers.

What is SAPONIFICATION?

Let’s talk soap production and the SAPONIFICATION PROCESS. If every kind of soap is made from fats, and oils then how does it lather and become something that has cleaning power? Here's the secret: Soaps typically use lye (Potassium Hydroxide) to help the saponification process. Potassium Hydroxide helps the saponification of oils to create soaps and detergents.


But here's the best part: None of the Potassium Hydroxide is left in the product after it is saponified. Whole Naturals Castile Soap is made of high-fat carrier oils, making the lye impossible to be left behind.


What are Essential Oils?

Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts that retain the natural smell and flavor, or “essence,” of their source. Often used in aromatherapy to enhance relaxation, we suggest the addition of essential oils to enhance the Whole Naturals aroma experience. We'd like to remind you that some essential oils can be poisonous to pets, so please be aware when adding it to your pet shampoo.


Are there more important terms about Castile soap you'd like explained? Drop me a line! Happy to help!


Cheers!


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