If you've been to a health store, you've probably seen Castile soap, most likely Dr. Bronner's. Castile soap is a soap made with natural oils and chemical reactions. The only chemicals involved in making Castile soap are sodium hydroxide and/or potassium hydroxide (commonly known as lye). Since these chemicals are all used up when they react to the oils, Castile soap is chemical free, non-toxic and eco-friendly. Not only is this soap completely safe and holistic, it has multiple uses outside the shower!

All-purpose Cleaning

Since Castile soap is safe to use anywhere, it makes the perfect ingredient for all-purpose cleaner, in fact, my favorite DIY recipe for non-toxic cleaner includes Castile soap! Take a peek at the recipe below for making your own eco-friendly all-purpose cleaner.

All Purpose Cleaner

1/2 cup vinegar
1 cup hot water
1/8 tsp Castile soap
optional (but recommended!) - 9 drops essential oil (Eucalyptus or Tea Tree oil is naturally antibacterial/antimicrobial)

Pour into a spray bottle and shake before each use

If you're not the DIY type, check out the Citrus All-Purpose Cleaner from Celadon Road. I discovered the Celadon Road all-natural cleaning line last year, and I've been using it ever since! I love it!

Mop It Up

Hardwood floor cleaner can be expensive and potentially toxic, depending on the brand, but if you have a little Castile soap and some hot water, say goodbye to spending your hard-earned money on cleaning supplies! For a three gallon bucket of hot water, just add half a cup of Castile soap and a mop for shiny floors (unless they're carpeted) and a clean, holistic space.

Sop It Up

We mentioned above that using the Castile soap/hot water solution with a mop on carpet might not work, but you CAN make a carpet cleaner using the same ingredients! Instead of renting carpet cleaning gear or paying someone to do it for you, mix a cup of water and 1/4 cup of Castile soap in a blender until you get a foam consistency. Then use that to clean your carpet holistically, without toxins and without making a dent in your wallet.

Castile soap is often sold in the personal care aisle, so we know it's great for use as body wash, shampoo, pet shampoo and even for acne treatment, but its power goes far past that one room. Next time you're on the health aisle, remember all the amazing ways Castile soap can help you create a nurturing space, and pick up a bottle!

by Anjie Cho

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Here's a simple and easy recipe to make your own herbal hair conditioner. I use this every week. I whole-heartedly believe in all natural and organic materials in all areas of your life, including your beauty products. Please share some of your own great recipes!

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Video Transcript:

I'm Anjie Cho, and this is how to make herbal homemade conditioner in your own kitchen.

Most hair conditioners that you find in stores use harmful and or synthetic chemicals that will not only, over time, dry your hair out, but may also be toxic. Though these chemicals preserve the shelf life of the product, they do absolutely nothing to preserve the health of your hair. This herbal homemade hair conditioner can be made in your own kitchen with just a few simple items.

Note, this hair conditioner is very similar to a hot oil treatment, and it's really great for dry hair but also for oily hair too. You'll need some good quality oils, such as jojoba oil, olive oil or coconut oil. I prefer to use raw extra virgin oils if possible.

You gently warm the oil so it's warm to the touch, and then you can add some herbs or essential oils of your choice. Basil is really great for oily hair and promotes hair growth. Chamomile, like the tea, is great for fine normal hair, and it also gives golden highlights. You can use a teabag and just take it out when you're done. Clary sage oil is great for dandruff treatment. Lavender is also great for dandruff and itchiness. Peppermint is good for dry hair and promotes hair growth so again you can use a teabag or you can just use the peppermint and strain it. Finally, tea tree oil is great for oily and dry scalp.

To make this homemade hair conditioner, or to use it, you can use up to half or 2 teaspoons if you have long hair like me, and apply it to dry or damp hair. Massage it first into your scalp then down to the ends. Leave it in for an hour or two, shampoo and rinse.

This hair conditioner will heal and nourish all types of hair. It will condition dry and brittle hair as well balance oily hair.

by Anjie Cho