Make Homemade Herbal Soap: Ylang Ylang and ­Frankincense Soap Recipe

By Sandy Maine
Published on April 14, 2011
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Herbal soaps are easy to make at home and can help keep skin healthy.

Sensible, sensual cleansing with herbs: Soaps for blemished skin

Blemished skin is marked by chronic pustules, blackheads, and whiteheads, all of which can cause scarring. Blemishes can be a problem at any age, but during the teenage years they often flare up because an increase in hormone production stimulates the skin’s oil glands. When excess oil and a buildup of dead skin cells clog the pores, pressure builds and bacteria flourish. Swelling and infections damage the skin.

A thoughtful regimen of appropriate skin care, healthful diet, and exercise can make a world of difference. If your skin problems are persistent, consult a dermatologist. The following soaps will gently support your return to trouble-free skin.

Ylang Ylang and ­Frankincense Soap

The fragrance of ylang ylang (Cananga odorata) is used in aromatherapy to soothe anger and frustration. Its oil serves to soften and rejuvenate the skin. Frankincense (Boswellia sacra) is a fragrant gum resin from trees native to Somalia and southern coastal Arabia. Frankincense powder offers a slightly astringent action.

Most frankincense is imported from Somalia and ylang ylang comes from the Comoros Islands near Madagascar; both should be readily available from your favorite herb shop.

Ingredients
• 2 cups glycerin soap base
• 1/8 cup powdered frankincense mixed with 1/8 cup liquid glycerin
• 1 teaspoon ylang ylang essential oil

Mix well, pour into molds, and cool. This soap has a shelf life of eighteen months.

Read the original article: How to Make Homemade Herbal Soaps.

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