Soapmaking – The difference in oils

OK, i know this is probably a bit on the crazy side to post on a blog, but I was fascinated to know that not every oil acts the same… some are wonderful cleaners, others offer fabulous sudsing action.  and some, not so much.

Here is a chart I found that gives a run down of a variety of different oils used in cold process soap making.  I understand more of the benefits of coconut oil and olive…

The chart includes a column titled SAP  – this is what is called a saponification ratio – or how quickly the oils and lye blend to form a soap.  (That process is called “Saponification” and takes it’s name from Mt Sapo in Greece where this magical mixture of lye and oil created the first soap by accident on the edge of their garbage dump. )