From the markets of the old spice trade
we purchase full lengths of cinnamon (Cinnamomum Zeylanicum) stick.
We grind the meter-long sticks to a fine powder. Then we mix this pleasantly
pungent spice with coconut oil, heat until completely saturated,
then strain to create a smooth, nonabrasive oil. We add this rich, reddish-brown
oil to the soap mixture at the end of the process as a "superfatting"
agent. Superfatting is a process soapmakers use to ensure a softer, smoother,
creamier, more emollient-rich bar of soap. In actuality, superfatting
leaves some of the oils un-saponified (un-SOAP-afied) resulting in a creamy
moisturizing bar while still maintaining the amazing cleansing properties
of coconut oil. Cinnamon is medicinal with its antiseptic, antidepressant,
astringent, and stimulating properties. Its astringent property proves
effective in "perking" up dull ashy skin.
We use a cinnamon Leaf essential oil (Cinnamomum
Zeylanicum) to accentuate the strong, warm, spicy-sweet aroma of the cinnamon
oil. This essential oil has the same medicinal properties as cinnamon
itself (antiseptic, antidepressant, astringent, and stimulating.)
Creator's note: I truly enjoy this soap! Because of the
fact that true essential oils trigger memory, this soap is great for the
person far from home when the apple pie is baking at Thanksgiving or Christmas
time. An irresistibly smooth and creamy concoction. Although looks and
smells good enough to eat, we urge you: please do not!
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