Happy anniversary to the world’s most universal soaps

by Therese Bowen
Freshlife Personal Care Coach

Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps are made with old world quality, which can be traced back to several generations of German-Jewish soap making tradition. Born in 1908 to a Jewish family that had been making soap since 1858, Emanuel Bronner was the third generation certified as a master soap maker under the guild system of the time. In 1929, he brought his formulas for high-quality liquid and bar soaps to America, starting Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps in its current form in 1948.

What is castile soap? In earlier centuries, an all-vegetable based soap was made in the Castile region of Spain from local olive oil. By the turn of the century, “castile” had come to mean any vegetable oil based soap versus animal (tallow) fat-based soaps. The Dr. Bronner’s liquid soaps are made from a combination of organic and fair-trade extra virgin coconut, olive, jojoba and hemp oils and pure essential oils. They are completely free of sodium lauryl sulfate or any other foaming agents, thickeners or synthetic preservatives.

They are completely biodegradable and are packaged in 100-percent post-consumer recycled cylinder bottles and paper labels.

Dr. Bronner’s liquid soaps have long been loved by campers and “hippies” for their versatility. One product could fit in a backpack and be used for hair shampoo, bathing, washing dishes, pets and bellbottoms. Although the original and most popular variety is peppermint, the soap also comes in eucalyptus, lavender, almond, tea tree, rose and baby mild. It is also available in solid bar form.

Here are some suggested and most popular uses:

• All purpose household cleaner and degreaser—Dilute with water. (By the way, mice hate the peppermint smell.)
• Body wash—Use full strength.
• Hair shampoo—Use full strength.
• Laundry soap—1/4 c. to 1/3 c. for one regular load.
• Pet shampoo—You can dilute for this purpose but may choose to keep it full strength if you have a really stinky dog! Eucalyptus variety also helps to repel fleas.

Of course, this article would not be complete without mentioning the “interesting” labels. Emanuel Bronner was very passionate about his philosophy to have all people transcend religious and ethnic boundaries and beliefs and to peacefully co-exist. He had a very unique way of expressing himself. Suffice it to say, the bottles are a great bathroom read.

You can find both the liquids and bars of this legendary soap at Freshlife. The peppermint scented liquid is also available in the bulk department. Bring in your own bottle and fill it up for 35 cents a fluid ounce.