Making authentic African black soap at home is a rewarding process that connects you to centuries of West African tradition. This guide covers both the traditional ash method and a beginner-friendly simplified version.
What You Will Need
- Plantain skins from 10–15 plantains (or banana peels as a substitute)
- Cocoa pods or cocoa powder
- 250ml crude palm oil or red palm oil
- 250ml coconut oil
- 150g raw unrefined shea butter
- Safety gear: gloves, goggles, long sleeves
Step 1: Make the Ash (Traditional)
Sun-dry plantain skins for 2–3 days until completely dehydrated. Burn them in a clay or metal pot over an open flame, stirring occasionally, until they become grey-black ash. Allow to cool completely.
Step 2: Extract the Lye Water
Place the ash in a pot and cover with water. Stir well and let sit for 24 hours. Strain through a fine cloth to remove ash particles, retaining the alkaline lye water.
Step 3: Combine Oils
Gently melt palm oil, coconut oil, and shea butter together in a double boiler until fully liquid and combined. Allow to cool to around 40°C (104°F).
Step 4: Saponification
Slowly add the lye water to the oils, stirring continuously. The mixture will thicken over 20–60 minutes of stirring.
Step 5: Cure
Pour into molds and allow to cure for 4–6 weeks in a cool, dry place. The soap will harden and the pH will stabilize during this time.