Alata samina, also known as African black soap, is a traditional soap originating from West Africa. Making a shower gel with alata samina can provide a natural and gentle cleanser. Here’s a simple recipe to make alata samina shower gel at home:
Ingredients:
1 bar of alata samina (African black soap)
4 cups of distilled water
2 tablespoons of vegetable glycerin (for moisture)
1 tablespoon of vitamin E oil (optional, for added skin benefits)
Essential oils (optional, for fragrance, such as lavender, tea tree, or eucalyptus)
Equipment:
Cheese grater or knife
Mixing bowl
Large pot
Stirring spoon
Bottle or container for storage
Instructions:
1. Grate or chop the black soap: Use a cheese grater or knife to grate or chop the black soap into small pieces. This will help it dissolve more easily in the water.
2. Heat the water: Pour 4 cups of distilled water into a large pot and heat it on the stove until it’s hot but not boiling.
3. Dissolve the soap: Add the grated or chopped black soap to the hot water. Stir the mixture until the soap is completely dissolved. This may take a few minutes.
4. Add glycerin and oils: Once the soap is fully dissolved, remove the pot from heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable glycerin and 1 tablespoon of vitamin E oil (if using). Stir well to combine.
5. Add essential oils: If you want to add fragrance, add a few drops of your preferred essential oils to the mixture. Stir well to ensure the oils are evenly distributed.
6. Cool and transfer: Allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, pour the shower gel into a bottle or container for storage. A funnel can help make this process easier.
7. Use and enjoy: Your homemade alata samina shower gel is ready to use! Shake the bottle gently before each use to ensure the ingredients are well mixed
Tips:
Store the shower gel in a cool, dark place to prolong its shelf life.
If the consistency is too thick, add a bit more distilled water to thin it out.
If the consistency is too thin, you can add a bit more grated soap and heat the mixture again to thicken it.
Enjoy your natural and nourishing alata samina shower gel!
