Herb/o/logy is on the road again always in search of learning how to make a better product for you!
Our quest has brought us to the Thorough Bred Center in Lexington Kentucky, where we met up with like minded individuals for a two day soapy convergence.
Day one
On a beautiful Kentucky morning we learn from a pharmacists about her perspective of incorporating the natural into the medical.
Dr.Virginia Lemay precepts Doctor of Pharmacy students participating in community pharmacy-based clinical rotations at The University of Rhode Island College of Pharmacy.
First up Lice!
Lice is transmitted from head to head and cannot stay off the source for more 24 hours. Some natural suggestions would be Tea Tree and Lavender Oil.
Next up Poison Ivy – some people are more susceptible then others if you are in that latter group it’s best to stay away by identification. Some natural Solution would be Apple Cider Vinegar, Oatmeal paste( to help with the itching) and of course the power house is Jewel weed!
Dry skin (eczema ) as we age we lose natural oils and also some medication including Diuretics can deplete the skins moisture and also with aging comes the thin skin. She then gave us some natural solutions that included Lemon balm tree and Comfrey for itchy skin even shingles.
Next up the always engaging Dr Kevin Dunn
Kevin Dunn is the Elliott Professor of Chemistry at Hampden-Sydney College. His book, Caveman Chemistry, brought him to the attention of handcrafted soap makers and because of this he has undertaken a series of research projects on the chemistry of handcrafted soap
The good doctor introduced us to the chemical compounds of soap. He explained the atomic processes of how soap is fused. He then talked various recipes to make glycerin melt and poor the natural way. As a side note did you know that cocaine is a as natural natural as Lavender?
Margaret Neff
Margaret is a retired special education teacher, from the farmlands of central Ohio.
Making and talking about Rice Milk Soap
First up Rice Milk
Bring 1 cup of water and a 1/3 cup of rice to a boil cover and reduce to low and simmer for 40 minutes. Drain off excess water then transfer to a blender and add 2 cups warm water. Blend and add another cup of warm water, let sit for 30 minutes skin the top and strain
Voila Rice Milk!
Margaret talked about the different methods of using milk in the soaps.
Katie White “Duchess of Suds”of Royalty Soaps
Katie White began soap making when she took a class at her home school co-op in September 2010, her junior year in high school.
Katie demonstrating piping on cold process soap
Day 2
This day was dedicated to all demonstrations by the above mentioned speakers.
Me, Katie and my cupcake
Glycerin Melt and pour anyone?
Teach and the Dr. demonstrating different ingredients for clear glycerin soap
And last but certainly not least our “teach” Cathy McGinnis talked about taking the very best product photos we can! She talked of using a white back round and using clear compelling images. Of course branding!
Cathy McGinnis Catherine’s you tube channel, Soaping101 is the most popular non-commercial channel for soap making tutorials. The style and know how she brings to her videos and the community is an extension of her genuineness. She considers soap making an industry where information should be freely shared and appreciated.
Teach and me
Thank you for coming on our journey for education!
See you on the garden path
Queen and Duchess of suds
From The Garden Path 