My Dear Readers,
Chances are that you know all about “the Magic from the Mediterranean”, Whole Naturals Castile Soap. But if you’re new to my blog, let me give you a bit of a refresher. Castile soap is a biodegradable vegetable oil-based, all-purpose beauty/hygiene and household cleaner. The best part is: by experimenting with essential oils and different dilution ratios you can customize your experience.
The Origins Of Castile Soap
When you think back 2000 years, you may be inclined to think that there was a lack of awareness of personal hygiene, but the truth is that soap can be traced as far back at least to the crusades - even though it was not widely used. Around the 12th century, soap makers in Spain and Italy created and began to export soap to European destinations. The soap from the Castile region (admired for its olive oil) was superior to the competition and gained in popularity, but was probably still only used by the wealthy.
In the early 1700’s, around the time of the industrial revolution, soap making transitioned from a handmade process to a manufactured one, which made soaps more affordable and available to the masses worldwide. At this point in the process, fragrant scents were added and the connection between hygiene and health was better established.
Did George Washington use Castile Soap?
Founded in 1752, Caswell-Massey, was the first apothecary and beauty shop in America, and George Washington was a favored customer. The shop was known for its very high-quality Castile Soap which was purchased by Lewis and Clark for their Western expedition, just a few years later in 1804. Although liquid soap wasn't patented until 1865, Washington and his constituents would have been using bar soap purchased at Caswell-Massey.
Given Washington's fastidious nature and concern for cleanliness, it's easy to imagine Washington using Castile soap for his personal hygiene, or even for cleaning his home or clothing. The gentle and non-toxic nature of Castile soap would have been appealing to him, as he was known for his concern for the health and wellbeing of those around him.
Castile soap stands the test of time as an effective cleaning and cleansing solution, making it useful for a variety of purposes. It can be used for washing dishes, doing laundry, and even for personal hygiene, as it is gentle on the skin.
Can we say for certain that George Washington used Castile soap, chances are pretty high!
Ready to feel presidential this week (and keep your house clean?)
As we celebrate President's Day, it's a good time to reflect on the qualities that made our country's past leaders great, and how we can apply those same principles to our daily lives. One way we can do this is by keeping our homes clean and organized, just as our leaders strove to keep our country functioning smoothly.
Happy Presidents’ Week(end)
