The history of soap, from ancient times to today.

history of soap

The history of soap dates back to ancient Greece, and specifically to the island of Lesbos. On that island, animal sacrifices were held in honor of the gods. Because these animals were often cremated, ashes from hardwoods were collected (an early source of alkali). Over the years, these ashes mixed with the remains of the animals. It is said that after a heavy rain, a yellow residue appeared from the mountain of ashes and found its way down the hill where the temple was located. The women of Lesbos, washing their clothes in the local river, noticed that their clothes were cleaner when the river was yellowish.

History of soap records the poetess Sappho who wrote about those times when the action of the yellowish liquid was observed and thus honoring her was given the term “Saponification” – the chemical term that describes the creation of soap.

Review of the evolution of the history of soap through the centuries:

Ancient times

Ancient Mesopotamia:

• The first traces of soap are found in Mesopotamia around 2800 BC. Archaeologists have discovered clay cylindrical containers with soapy materials.
• According to historical sources, the Sumerians boiled fats with ashes, a process that produces a substance similar to soap.

Ancient Egypt:

• The Egyptians used a mixture of animal and vegetable oils with alkaline sands for cleansing and treating skin conditions.
• The Ebers Papyrus, dating back to 1500 BC, describes the use of soap for medicinal purposes.

Soap in Ancient Greece and Rome:

• Greeks and Romans used various types of cleaning substances. The Greeks used gravel and olive oil, while the Romans made it from fats and ashes.
• The Romans published the first references in Pliny the Elder’s “Natural History,” around 77 AD.

Middle Ages

Europe:

• The knowledge of saponification had been transferred from the Roman Empire, but during the “Dark Ages” (Early Middle Ages), soap production declined.
• During the Middle Ages, production spread throughout Europe. The main centers of production were Italy, Spain, and France.
• In the 12th-13th centuries, large cities such as Marseille (France), Savona (Italy) and Castile (Spain) became centers of soap production, using mainly olive oil.
• Marseille soap, made from olive oil and alkaline salts from brine, was very popular.
• From the 14th century, with the spread of plague (such as the Black Death), the importance of cleanliness began to be more recognized.
• In the 15th century, many European countries imposed taxes, making it a luxury good.

History of soap in the Renaissance and the Industrial Revolution

Renaissance:

• Soap production improved and evolved with the discovery of new processes and ingredients. Soap became more accessible and popular.
• In Marseille (France), Savona (Italy) and Castile (Spain), renowned soap factories were established that produced high-quality soap from olive oil.
• Marseille, in particular, became the center of European soapmaking, thanks to the pure olive oil of the Mediterranean.
• In France, the use of scented soaps became popular, particularly at the court of Louis XIV (17th century).
• Despite improvements in soap production, personal hygiene was still not a daily habit for the working classes.

Industrial Revolution:

• With the advent of the industrial revolution in the 19th century, soap production was modernized and mechanized.
• Nicolas Leblanc discovered a method of producing soda from common salt in 1791, allowing for the widespread production of soap.
• With mechanization and the establishment of factories, soap became cheaper and easier to purchase, replacing homemade soaps.
• Companies such as Lever Brothers (later Unilever) and Procter & Gamble were founded and began producing soap in large quantities.
• With improvements in public hygiene and recognition of the importance to health, its use became an integral part of everyday life.

Modern times

20th century and beyond:

At the beginning of the 20th century, synthetic detergents made their appearance, offering alternatives to traditional soap.

Despite all this, natural soap has remained popular, especially with the resurgence of traditional and handmade products.

Contemporary Uses and Trends

Environmental awareness and handmade soaps:

In our time, environmental awareness plays a decisive role in our daily choices. One of the most interesting and sustainable options is the use of handmade soaps, which offer not only a natural solution for skin care, but also an environmentally responsible product.

Benefits of Handmade Soaps for the Environment

Natural Ingredients:

Handmade soaps are often made from natural ingredients such as vegetable oils, herbs, and essential oils, avoiding the use of synthetic ingredients that can harm the environment.

Chemical Waste Reduction:

Their manufacture in small batches and without mass industrial processing helps reduce waste and the use of harmful chemicals often found in industrial cleaning products.

Sustainable Production:

Small businesses and beekeepers who produce handmade soaps often follow sustainable production practices, such as using recyclable packaging and locally sourcing raw materials, reducing their carbon footprint.

Handmade Soaps and Daily Care

Handmade soaps offer a gentle and effective solution for cleansing and caring for the skin. They preserve the natural oils that are essential for healthy skin, without drying or irritating it. In addition, their use contributes to the reduction of waste produced from plastic packaging, as they are often available in recyclable or biodegradable packaging.

The Role of Environmental Consciousness

The increase in environmental awareness has led consumers to choose products that respect the environment. By purchasing handmade soaps, you support small businesses that invest in sustainable practices and promote a production model that respects nature. In addition, awareness of the impact of chemical products on biodiversity reinforces the value of natural solutions and leads to a healthier lifestyle for everyone.

Olive n flower continues the tradition in natural soap and offers you pure, natural soaps