Make your own soap

Soap making is very easy. And my favorite is Lemon Verbena, a refreshing citrus flavor. The method I us requires no lye, so it is very safe to make. Home made soap makes a great gift, and you can even make your own to sell.

The ingredient needed to start are simple:

• 2 tbsp fresh lemon verbena leaves, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp glycerine, warmed
• 12 tbsp unscented soap, finely grated
• 1 tbsp clear honey
• Few drops food colouring (optional)

Place the chopped lemon verbena leaves into 2 tablespoons of warmed glycerine.
 Allow to infuse. Put in a warm place for 1-2 hours. This allows the lemon verbena to infuse.
 Put the finely grated soap into the top of a double boiler.  Melt the soap over simmering water (low heat).
 Remove from the heat.
 Mix the melted soap mixture with the infused lemon verbena solution.  Add the honey and food colouring (if using) and stir the ingredients together, using the wooden spoon.
 Pour the stirred mixture into pre-greased soap moulds.
 Allow to set. Remove and use.