Among the most advertised products are detergents, powders and softeners. Currently, the market is offering an alternative to the chemicals that clean homes and wash our clothes. These are soap nuts /soapnuts/. They are not nuts in the true sense of the word and are not edible.
Soap nuts are harvested from the Sapindus mukorossi tree, which grows in India and Nepal. This tree is really extraordinary, because in practice, it produces soap. Ripe fruits are collected and the coat is removed from the seed and the coating itself was dried in the sun. It is these shells that are soap nuts.
When the fruits fall to the ground, local farmers harvest them, separate the shell and then dry them in the sun. This avoids the use of any chemicals or harmful substances. Soap nuts have been used for hundreds of years in India for washing clothes.
Composition of soap nuts
Soap nuts are a completely environmentally friendly product. Their properties come because they contain saponins. After rinsing these saponins are separated in the water. They are completely harmless to the environment. No artificial flavors, phosphates, foaming, or other synthetic materials are found in them.
Selection and storage of soap nuts
Soap nuts can be purchased from specialized and organic shops. 2.2 lb (1 kg) soap nuts is about enough to do washing for a year.
Naturally, shops also sell smaller packs, with sizes of about 7 oz (200 grams), sold in small bags made of natural materials. Soap nuts are stored in a cool place.
Use of soap nuts
Soap nuts are used to make natural detergents. Saponins in the nuts ae dissolved at a temperature of 90°F (30 °C). They are extremely easy to use. As mentioned, soap nuts are sold in bags.
When washing the laundry, place 5-6 halves soap nuts in a bag, tie it up and add it to the laundry. When washing below 140°F (60 °C), the shells can be reused. After washing with soap nuts, you do not need to use fabric softener. Since they do not smell, you can put a little essential oil in the laundry.
Soap nuts and liquid soap can be used for cleaning all types of surfaces in the dishwasher, for bathing, and for hand washing dishes. Prepare for washing dishes by soaking 3.5 oz (100 g) of finely chopped nuts in three liters of water.
Boil the mixture on the stove and let it bubble for about 10 minutes. Pour the prepared mixture in a bottle and use it to wash the dishes. If you use a dishwasher, place nuts where the detergent block goes.
Soapy water that is derived from soap nuts can be used to clean the kitchens, kids’ rooms and bathroom floors. The effect is as good as cleaning with the not- so safe chemicals.
Cleaning
To clean windows and glass fill the empty spray bottle with 2 cups water, 1 tablespoon of soap nut liquid and 1 tablespoon vinegar. With the resulting mixture, clean the windows as usual.
You can use liquid soap as a mosquito repellent. With it- spray your arms, legs and face.
Use liquid soap to wash your pets’ fur, as shampoo, and for cleaning jewelry. To clean your jewelry, it is necessary to soak it in the liquid for a few minutes. Soap nuts are also used for washing fruits and vegetables. Leave them for 10 minutes in liquid nut soap, then rinse with clean water.
Soap nuts have a distinct advantage over known cleaners because they are biodegradable, antibacterial and cheap. They do not damage tissues and are suitable for washing silk and cashmere, and hand washing.
Soap Nut flakes have a proven hypoallergenic effect and can be used in allergic conditions. Great for babies and people with sensitive skin too.
