Recent content by Nanditasr

Doesn't it smell strongly of neem?

I have always had the problem that the tallow ones crack and look ugly soon. And don't lather much (not that this bothers me) -- but the cracks and splits bothered me. Just on a whim, I tried flaxseed gel instead of water, and 20% KOH. Citric acid as chelator. I used 90% tallow and 10% castor...

Oh yes, that's a valid point -- potassium is good for the soil -- how did I forget! Such a bummer -- I wish one could make a solid soap with NaOH. :-( But yes, this is a good reason for me to trudge along to the crowded market in the city and pick up some KOH.

Thanks, DeeAnna. So I guess the risk applies more to the soapmaker than to the user of the soap. Anyway, I'll avoid it hereafter, because the EWG database says "High concerns: persistence and bioaccumulation", something that is not mentioned for either KOH and NH4OH. The reason I started making...

Indeed, I did. However, I don't know how popular it is -- people tend to get a bit scared if they hear "ammoni..."; NaOH or KOH do not have the same effect. I have googled it, but I'm unable to find any documentation to say that NH4OH is any more dangerous than the rest; in fact, its pH is a...

Thanks. Yes, I do process the aloe vera leaves carefully, so the gel can be applied or eaten. My neighbour gives her dog the gel (properly processed) for his tummy problems. Coconut oil: Yes, much treasured all over southern India, which is where I am. Egg yolk: Oh yes, it's great in our hair...

Yes, I have. Waiting for his reply. I guess he's never got this question before!

Thanks. Is it safe to use soy lecithin on dogs?

The vet has recommended aloe vera gel and coconut oil for the dog's skin itch and scabs. Of course, the two don't mix unless I use an emulsifier. I am hesitant to use emulsifying wax since he may try to lick it off. I have used soy lecithin for my own lotions and am rather happy with the feel of...

In both cases, there is a chance of the e-wax being ingested in very small quantities. If it's not safe, what are the alternatives?

It feels OK. It does not smell particularly of mustard anymore. In fact, it has no particular smell. However, I have not made any more batches with so much mustard oil -- have not gone over 10%.

I think so too. Yes, this is the one placed outside. Inside, there's no problem. No point in a pic -- there's nothing left in the dish! :-(

The insects have eaten even my neem soap! Other soaps, I did not mind. This one, I'm not happy about. This was a 12% neem, 20% mustard oil soap. Now I have tried placing my 50% neem, 15% mustard oil soap -- let's see. This theory of neem being a fantastic repellent of pesky creatures -- is...

You mean you tried Genny's shampoo bar? Actually, I find that any non-bubbly soap produces bubbles after three months. However, if you don't want to wait that long, you can make a non-CO soap with dual lye.

Thanks; the idea of citronella, lavender and peppermint actually sounds delightful! Yes, I could also try soaking the sponge in a suitable EO. And maybe I'll check if they find my neem oil soap as tasty.