Soap Making Recipes

Soap making is a fascinating blend of creativity and chemistry that dates back centuries. It’s a hands-on craft that can be both fun and satisfying, with roots stretching across various cultures and time periods. People have been turning simple ingredients into cleansing bars long before modern conveniences took over.

The magic of soap-making lies in the careful selection of ingredients. Quality plays a massive role here—not just for a luxurious end product, but for health and sustainability reasons too. Choosing natural ingredients ensures the soap is gentle on the skin and eco-friendly, things more folks are caring about today.

Diving into the methods, there are a few popular routes you might take: cold process, hot process, or melt and pour. Each method has its own charm and techniques to master. The cold process involves working with lye solutions, while hot process takes things up a notch with added heat. Melt and pour, on the other hand, skips the chemistry for immediate creative expression using pre-made bases.

Follow this link to get you started with step by step instructions for Cold Process Soap

Getting started requires just a handful of tools. Think mixing bowls, sturdy spatulas, and precise measuring cups. A scale for weighing ingredients and safety gear, like goggles and gloves, are non-negotiable, especially when dealing with lye. Having the right tools makes a world of difference for a smooth soap-making experience.

Follow this link to a list of things you need to get started and

Follow this link for safety supplies

Beginner-Friendly Recipes: Crafting Your First Bar of Soap

Tackling your first soap-making project is an exciting adventure. The goal here is to start simple and gradually build your skills and confidence. Cold process soap making is a popular starting point, thanks to its balance between creative freedom and scientific precision.

Let’s get hands-on with an easy cold-process soap recipe using olive oil as the star ingredient. It’s a staple in many recipes for its nourishing properties. Adding a few drops of your favorite essential oils not only imparts a lovely fragrance but also brings therapeutic benefits.

Follow this link to a 100 percent Olive Oil Soap also called Castile Soap

If you’re more comfortable skipping the lye bit and jumping straight into customization, melt and pour might be right up your alley. It’s as simple as melting the pre-made soap base and stirring in colors, scents, or other natural goodies like herbs and exfoliants. There’s plenty of room for creativity here.

Follow this link to more information or where to get your Melt and Pour Bases

Safety can’t be overstated when making soap, especially with lye. Ensuring you have a well-ventilated workspace and wearing protective gear is key. This keeps the experience enjoyable and free from mishaps. Beginners often face challenges, but simple troubleshooting—like addressing air bubbles or correcting a trace—can make all the difference in your final product.

Soaping mishaps aren’t the end of the world. They’re part of the learning curve. Keeping a keen eye on the process and maintaining patience might just transform those little bumps into stepping stones for an improved batch next time.

Exploring Natural Ingredients: Elevate Your Soap-Making Experience

Venturing into natural ingredients opens up a treasure trove of possibilities in soap making. Choosing the right oils and butters can drastically enhance both texture and skin benefits. Coconut oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter are just a few favorites that bring moisturizing and soothing properties to your soap bars.

Here is a link to bulk shea butter

Incorporating herbs, spices, and clays not only boosts the aesthetic appeal but also imbues your soap with nature’s own touch. Think of calendula petals or activated charcoal—each adds unique benefits and flair.

Scent matters in soap, and essential oils are a natural way to achieve pleasant, lasting fragrances. These oils are not just about smell; they carry aromatherapeutic properties too. Blending different essential oils can create captivating or calming aromas depending on your mood and purpose.

For those inclined towards sustainability, consider adding eco-friendly exfoliants like oatmeal or used coffee grounds. They provide texture while respecting the planet, crafting a bar that’s as kind to nature as it is to your skin.

Here is a link to Essential Oils you may want to add to your soap

Crafting Specialty Soaps: For Personal Preferences and Needs

Crafting soaps that cater to specific preferences and needs takes your artistry to the next level. For sensitive or problematic skin, formulating a nourishing soap is essential. Incorporating ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile can soothe and calm skin, offering relief while you cleanse.

Colorful, visually stunning soaps are another avenue to explore. Natural colorants such as spirulina or turmeric not only add vibrancy but also bring their unique properties. Experimenting with swirls or layers can turn a simple bar into a piece of art.

There’s also room to branch out with specialty soaps like shampoo bars or shaving soaps. Shampoo bars are an eco-friendly alternative to bottled products, often enriched with ingredients that promote healthy hair and scalp. Shaving soaps can be tailored for maximum lathering and skin protection, ideal for a luxurious grooming experience.

Lastly, creating vegan or palm-oil-free recipes appeals to those committed to ethical and sustainable choices. These soaps often utilize alternatives like sunflower oil or rice bran oil, aligning personal care with conscientious living.

Advanced Techniques: Taking Your Soap Making to the Next Level

Once you’ve got the basics down, exploring advanced techniques can take your soap-making to a new level of creativity and skill. Soap swirling and layering are art forms in themselves, offering endless possibilities. Practice with different texture combinations to create visually striking patterns that make your soap not just a bath essential but a conversation starter.

Consider embedding smaller soap pieces or botanicals within your bars for unique designs. This is where creativity shines, turning each bar into a one-of-a-kind piece. Embedding techniques can be a bit tricky, but with patience and practice, they’ll soon become a cherished tool in your soap crafting belt.

Investing in advanced tools like professional soap cutters and specialized molds elevates the quality of your output. They ensure your soap bars come out with perfect precision, which is ideal if you’re considering selling your creations or gifting them.

Understanding the gel phase is crucial for perfecting the texture and color of your soap. The right temperature control can enhance the aesthetic qualities and reduce the curing time, pushing your soap-making expertise further.

Perfecting the Process: From Curing to Packing and Storing Your Soap

The final touches in soap making are all about curing, packaging, and storage. Proper curing is vital, as it ensures your soap achieves the right hardness and longevity. Letting your bars cure in a well-ventilated space for about four to six weeks often does the trick, refining the texture and effectiveness of your soap.

Once your soap has cured, packaging becomes an opportunity to convey the personal touch behind each bar. Simple wrapping materials like kraft paper or eco-friendly wraps can enhance the aesthetic appeal, making them great for gifts or sales.

Storage goes hand-in-hand with long-term preservation. Keeping your soaps in a cool, dry place maintains their quality and prolongs their fragrance. Consider proper labeling, noting ingredients and the curing date, especially if you plan to offer them to friends or customers.

Even the best-prepared soaps might face occasional storage issues like discoloration or scent loss. Regular checks and understanding signs of rancidity can prevent those little mistakes, ensuring your batches stay fresh and skin-friendly.

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Hemp Seed Oil

Today, I’m going to be talking about hemp seed oil and why it’s becoming the go-to ingredient for skin enthusiasts everywhere. If you haven’t given it much thought, you’re going to find out about hemp seed oil’s understated power to transform your skin’s health.

I’m here to help you understand the key components in this oil that make it such a skin-care superstar. Hemp oil is packed with nourishing vitamins, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids that are known to align with your skin’s natural processes to soothe and hydrate.




You might be wondering, ‘Is all the buzz around hemp oil backed by science?’ In my opinion, the research speaks for itself. There are numerous studies that praise hemp oil for its ability to calm inflammation, reduce acne, and even protect the skin from aging.

This isn’t just about dry or sensitive skin; hemp oil has something to offer for a variety of skin issues. From those struggling with oily skin to people fighting signs of aging, hemp oil has demonstrated time and time again its ability to be a versatile and gentle nurturer of skin health.

Choose something that resonates with you, and if natural and effective skincare is your game, hemp oil might just be your MVP. Stay tuned, because I’m going to be talking about how this powerhouse ingredient makes waves in the world of soap-making and lotion crafting next.



The Gentle Touch: Hemp Oil in Soap Making

I’m going to walk you through why hemp oil is making a splash in the world of soap making. It’s not just due to its trendiness – there’s real skin nourishment going on here. Soap makers are turning to hemp oil because it’s packed with essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, which are known to hydrate and repair the skin barrier.

That’s going to include a comparison between hemp oil soaps and their traditional counterparts. You’re going to find out about the gentleness of hemp oil, with anecdotal evidence suggesting that it’s less likely to irritate sensitive skin. Plus, hemp oil doesn’t strip away natural oils, helping to maintain a healthy skin balance.

hemp soap recipe

If you want to try your hand at soap making, hemp oil can be a game-changer. I’m here to help you with beginner-friendly tips on infusing your homemade soaps with the goodness of hemp oil. It’s a simple process that gives your soaps an upgrade in terms of skincare benefits.

Let’s not overlook the experiences of those who’ve made the switch. Personal testimonies from individuals and feedback from small-scale producers highlight how using hemp oil soap has improved their skin health, making their stories a compelling case for giving this ingredient a try.

Hemp Oil-Infused Lotions: Ultimate Moisture for Your Skin

I’m here to help you understand why hemp oil-infused lotions might just be the missing link in your skin hydration game. Here’s a fact: hemp oil has properties that can significantly boost skin moisture levels. This isn’t just about quenching thirsty skin; it’s also about maintaining a healthy skin barrier.

When you choose a lotion with hemp oil, you’re getting a blend that often includes other skin-loving essences such as shea butter, almond oil, or coconut oil. This synergy makes for a concoction that’s packed with vitamins and antioxidants, nourishing the skin deeply and effectively.

Now, how about whipping up your own lotion? If you want to, it’s pretty straightforward to get started. You can control the ingredients and the texture to suit your personal skin needs. For those with sensitive skin, homemade lotions can be a godsend, giving you the moisture you want without the additives you don’t.




Don’t worry too much about making it perfect on the first try. You can always adjust your approach down the road. But chances are, once you experience the difference hemp oil makes in your homemade lotion, you’ll wonder how you ever did without it.

Here is a recipe for moisturizing Hemp Butter 

To put things into perspective, there are many case studies illustrating the positive changes people notice when switching to hemp oil lotions. From improved texture and elasticity to reduced inflammation and acne, the stories of skin transformations are both compelling and inspiring.

The Bigger Picture: Integrating Hemp Oil into Overall Skin Care Regimens

Now let’s talk about making hemp oil a staple in your skincare routine. You can play with different hemp oil-infused products to see what harmony they strike with your skin. And remember, while it’s tempting to expect overnight results, natural remedies like hemp oil need time to work their magic.

You don’t have to overhaul your entire arsenal of beauty products; start small. Add a drop of hemp oil to your moisturizer or blend it with your face cream. Over time, you can gradually expand its role.

If you’re game to experiment, there’s no shortage of ways to incorporate hemp oil into your regime. From serums to balms, each product offers a new opportunity to nourish your skin naturally.

To wrap it up, I’ll leave you with a crucial nugget of advice: when it comes to introducing any new element into your skincare, always patch test first. Choosing something that resonates with you includes making sure it agrees with your skin.

And finally, always consult with a dermatologist, especially when you have specific skin concerns or conditions. They can provide guidance tailored to your unique skin profile and help ensure that hemp oil becomes a worthy addition to your skincare symphony. So there you have it, hemp oil might just be your skin’s new best friend.




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Cold Process Soap Making: A Beginner’s Guide

Making soap from scratch might seem daunting at first, but it’s a rewarding craft that combines art and science. I’m here to introduce you to cold-process soap making, a method where you control every ingredient that goes into your soap, resulting in a high-quality product that’s gentle on the skin and better for the environment.

Unlike the bars you find at the store, handmade soap retains natural glycerin, offering extra moisturizing properties. Plus, imagine the personal satisfaction you’ll get from using a bar of soap that you created with your own hands. Whether you’re looking to avoid harsh chemicals, reduce plastic waste, or just embrace a new hobby, cold-process soap-making is a fulfilling endeavor.




The process allows for endless creativity. You can choose colors, shapes, fragrances, and textures to suit your tastes or meet specific skin care needs. But before visions of lavender-infused, swirl-patterned soaps start dancing in your head, it’s crucial to ground ourselves safely and precisely. Soap making is a precise art that requires respect for the ingredients, especially lye, a key component that turns fats into soap.

Historically, soap making is a centuries-old craft, but it’s experiencing a modern revolution as people seek more control over the products they use daily. There’s a deep sense of community and tradition in the soap-making world, and I encourage you to become part of it.




Understanding the origins of soap and the chemistry behind it provides a strong foundation for your first batch. In the next section, I’ll walk you through the essentials needed to get started. You’ll see it’s not just about gathering materials; it’s about embarking on a journey back to basics—a journey that performers, pioneers, and pragmatists can all appreciate. So let’s ensure you have everything you need to turn your kitchen into a mini soap-making lab.

Gathering Your Cold Process Soap Supplies

I always say soap making is both an art and a science. To dive into this craft, you need the right tools and ingredients. Think of it as gathering a painter’s palette and brushes before starting a canvas. Here are the essentials you’ll need for cold-process soap making:

  • Begin with the foundation: fats and oils. Depending on the properties you want your soap to have, you’ll choose different types of oils. Coconut oil for lather, olive oil for moisturizing, and palm oil for hardness are some of the popular choices. Consult a soap-making oil chart to understand the unique benefits that each oil has.
  • Next, let’s talk about lye, scientifically known as sodium hydroxide. It’s the chemical that, when combined with oils, results in soap through a process called saponification. A word of caution: lye is caustic and must be handled with respect. ALWAYS use 100% pure lye and adhere strictly to safety guidelines to protect yourself.
  • Regarding safety, invest in goggles, gloves, long sleeves, and a well-ventilated workspace. I cannot stress enough how important it is to protect your skin and eyes. Lye can cause serious burns, so equipping yourself with safety gear is non-negotiable.
  • Lastly, source high-quality and sustainable ingredients. Local suppliers might offer fresh, organic options. Online retailers specialize in soap-making supplies too. Don’t forget molds – silicone works best as it’s flexible and easy to clean. A sturdy blender, thermometer, and precise scale are also indispensable. Remember, accuracy is key to great results.

The Soap-Making Process: Step by Step

Starting the soap-making process might seem daunting at first, but I assure you, with the right guidance, it’s utterly rewarding. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll be doing.

    1. First up is the preparation stage. Have all your supplies laid out and your workspace clean and clutter-free. Safety first – put on your gloves and goggles.
    2. Begin by accurately measuring the fats, oils, and lye using a reliable scale. Precision is critical here to ensure a successful chemical reaction called saponification. Missteps could result in a failed batch or even a hazardous mixture. Once your lye water is mixed, allow it to cool slightly while you gently warm your oils until they’re about the same temperature. The ideal range is around 95-110 degrees Fahrenheit.
    3. Now, you’ll slowly combine the lye water with the oils. This step needs a careful and steady hand. Gently stir the mixture, or if you’re using a stick blender, pulse it to mix. This is the ‘trace’ stage, where your mixture starts to thicken, akin to a light pudding. Here’s the fun part. Want to add some flair? This is the moment to mix in any chosen fragrances, colors, or add-ins like oatmeal or poppy seeds.
    4. Pour the thickened soap mixture into your mold. Tap the mold gently to eliminate any air pockets. Then cover the soap with a towel to insulate and encourage the saponification process. In about 24 to 48 hours, your soap should be set enough to remove from the mold, but not quite ready for use yet.
    5. After unmolding, you’ll move into the curing phase. Curing can last for four to six weeks and is necessary for the soap to complete saponification and for water to evaporate, resulting in a harder, longer-lasting bar.
    6. After the Curing: Unmolding, Cutting, and Storage




Your soap has now undergone a critical transformation during the curing process. It’s not just about waiting; it’s about the flavors, the hardness, and the gentleness all developing into their best form. Here’s how to proceed once the curing period, which typically lasts about four to six weeks, is over.

Unmolding your soap is the first step, and it requires a gentle touch. Start by ensuring your soap is fully cured and firm enough to handle. You may need a bit of patience and gentle nudging to ease the soap out of the mold without damaging it. If you used a silicone mold, you’re in luck—these typically release the soap quite easily.

Cutting soap is oddly satisfying. It’s where you decide the size and shape of your bars. You’ll want a sharp, non-serrated knife or a soap cutter for a smooth cut. A ruler can be handy to measure consistent bars, unless you’re going for a more rustic look. Press down gently but firmly, and voila, you’ve got individual soap bars.




For storing your soap, think dry and cool. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme temperatures that can cause melting or sweating. If you plan to use the soap yourself, a linen closet or a bathroom drawer is perfect. For soap intended for sale, wrap it in paper or plastic wrap to prevent surface oils from picking up dust.

Finally, if you’re feeling proud of your soap—which you should be—consider different packaging options for gifting or selling. Handmade labels or rustic twine can add a personal touch that reflects the care you’ve put into each bar. Remember, the presentation is nearly as important as the soap itself when it comes to making a lasting impression.

Cold process soap making is an art that rewards patience and precision. As you become more experienced, you’ll find joy in experimenting with new additives and techniques. Each batch offers a chance to improve and personalize your craft. Keep learning, keep trying, and take pride in the unique bars of soap that emerge from your very own kitchen.




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Best Essential Oils For Soap Making

Curiosity about crafting your very own soap is on the rise, and I’m here to help you navigate the fragrant world of essential oils. It’s not just about concocting a cleaning bar; it’s about the experience, the aroma, and the many perks that come with it.

What exactly are essential oils? They are potent plant extracts that retain the natural smell and flavor, or ‘essence’, of their source. These oils have been harnessed for centuries, not only for their delightful scents but also for their medicinal and therapeutic properties.




From the ancient Babylonians who used aromatic resins for their bathing rituals to the Egyptians who crafted perfumed balms, essential oils have always been a cornerstone in creating personal care products that cleanse, soothe, and delight the senses.

Don’t worry too much about figuring it all out right from the get-go. I’m here to guide you through choosing the ideal essential oils to elevate your soap-making game to aromatic excellence.

Top Essential Oils for Soap Making: Finding Your Signature Scent

When you’re diving into the world of soap making, the choice of essential oils can be overwhelming, but so exhilarating. It’s not just about picking any scent; it’s about finding the right notes that resonate with you and your future soap users. You’ll want to look for oils that retain their fragrance post-saponification, the chemical process that transforms oils into soap.

Let’s talk specifics. Lavender is a universal favorite, known for its soothing and floral scent. It’s a safe bet for your first batch. On the other hand, citrus oils like lemon and orange provide that bright, uplifting zestiness to kickstart the day. For those looking for a more earthy base, patchouli or cedarwood add depth and grounding notes.

Blending essential oils can be a form of art. Imagine concocting your own scent that can’t be found on store shelves. Start with the basics: a note from each category – top, middle, and base. Top notes provide the initial burst of scent, middle notes form the heart of the blend, and base notes give a lasting impression.

Remember, not all scents stick around after the soap cures. Citrus can be fleeting, so it may need to be anchored with a middle or base note. When testing blends, small batch trials are your best friend. This isn’t just a cautious approach to not waste materials, but also an opportunity to perfect your scent profile.

The Aromatic Benefits: What Scents Are Best for You

So you’re curious about the different effects that scents offer? I’m going to help you understand how the right aroma can do much more than just smell good. Scents in essential oils aren’t just about personal taste; they can also have profound psychological and therapeutic effects. For instance, lavender is renowned for its calming properties, while citrus scents like lemon or grapefruit can invigorate and uplift.

Choosing scents is also about considering what’s best for different skin types. If you have sensitive skin, chamomile or rose might be your go-to aromas, as they’re gentle and soothing. For oilier skin, I’d point you toward peppermint or tea tree oil, which are known to have purifying and balancing qualities.

What’s more, seasons and trends play a role in scent preferences. In my opinion, during the winter months, you might want warmer, spicier scents such as cinnamon or clove. Come summer, lighter, fresher scents like eucalyptus or bergamot could be more appealing.

Don’t worry too much about following the trends, though. Choose something that resonates with you. That being said, safety is paramount. Be mindful of the fact that while natural, essential oils are potent and can cause reactions in some people. This is crucial if you’re crafting soaps for a broad audience – always err on the side of caution and include clear information about the oils used.

Enhancing Your Soap with Essential Oils: Beyond the Scent

In my experience, adding essential oils to soap doesn’t just elevate the fragrance; it also boosts the soap’s innate properties. Essential oils bring a host of benefits to soaps. For example, some oils have strong antibacterial properties, which can make your soap more effective at cleansing.

You might not know this, but essential oils like tea tree oil are renowned for their anti-inflammatory benefits, helping to soothe skin conditions and relieve irritation. Alongside scent, I want to point out that essential oils can significantly enhance the moisturizing qualities of your soap, leaving the skin feeling soft and nourished after every wash.

Incorporating essential oils isn’t just about adding a nice aroma; it’s about enriching the soap with attributes that can contribute to skin health and overall well-being. When you mix these oils into your soap recipes, you also bring in vitamins and antioxidants that are beneficial for the skin. This isn’t just about a superficial benefit—it’s a deep, skin-loving boost.

Now, if you’re planning to sell your soaps, it’s essential to include accurate labeling. Consumers appreciate knowing what’s in their products, especially when it comes to skin sensitivities and ethical sourcing. I strongly encourage you to be as transparent as possible about the essential oils used, and their origin, to build trust and credibility with your customers.

Remember, you’re not just crafting soap; you’re creating an experience. The essential oils you choose can transform a simple daily routine into a luxurious, therapeutic ritual. That’s the magic of using nature’s extracts in soap making.

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Soap Dish for Cold Process Soap

I just love this Soap Dish!!

 

Soap DishThis soap dish is perfect for handmade soap that needs to drain you can find this one by clicking on the link.

It is available in several colors.

 

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Using Honey In Soap Making

I’ve always been fascinated by the natural ingredients that elevate our daily skincare routine – and honey is a real game-changer. Packed with moisturizing properties, honey isn’t just a staple in the kitchen; it’s a powerhouse in soap making. When infused into soap, honey attracts and retains moisture, which is exceptionally beneficial for keeping skin hydrated and supple.

Beyond hydration, honey is also replete with antioxidants. These compounds are crucial as they help protect the skin against environmental damage, such as pollution and UV rays. These antioxidants can reduce the appearance of wrinkles, bringing a youthful vibrancy to your skin with every wash. Continue reading

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Life’s a beach soap

The Life’s a Beach soap was probably my 3rd best-seller. After the Egyptian Musk and the Blackberry Orange. I also sold a lotion, perfume oil, and bath salts all with this scent that was created from scratch. The image below shows a very tropical-looking soap! This is done with layering, and placement of a previously made orange tube of soap, and an elongated white sliver of soap.

Lots of work went into this bar!



Life’s a Beach soap recipe, a very tropical scent:

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Coconut Soap

This coconut soap recipe was maybe not the best seller in the store, although blends that had a coconut scent were better sellers. Also, the toasted coconut scent sold better than the non-toasted scent. My best seller with a coconut scent in it was Life’s a Beach!

Coconut-scented soap bar, with its natural color.




Coconut soap recipe:

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Anise

I will be using the #1 Basic Soap Recipe for this easy soap-making recipe with Anise essential oil which is natural and smells like licorice. This scent is considered to be a great kitchen bar as it is known to reduce odors on the hands from fish, onions, etc. Also considered to be an awakening scent for that morning shower. In my store, some people would smell this bar and say something like “Yum, Sambuca”, then we knew who the drinkers were, lol.

A beautiful black & white Anise soap by ArtFire!



This is an easy recipe in that it has one essential oil and can be tinted basic one color, or not. One bonus is this particular essential oil isn’t one of the expensive ones. When making soap I  decided that I had to have a price ceiling for essential oils, and that was $100 per liter or 32 ounces. The good news is I could still buy about half of them. Continue reading

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natural pain relievers

There are natural pain relievers headaches, joint pain, muscle pain, and more. These natural ones are derived from a singular or combination of essential oils and other plant materials. I personally have used a natural essential oil pain reliever for years!  Even if any essential oil does not work completely on your pain, this is still beneficial, as this means you can use fewer pharmaceuticals.

Peppermint Plant




Some companies have started regulating essential oils. Canada has but the United States has not. For instance, just like supplements, essential oils are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. This means that essential oil products do not need to gain FDA approval before they are brought to the market and sold to consumers. Another reason to make your own natural blends from reputable suppliers. Continue reading

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