The chemistry of soap is not complicated. Soap is a product obtained by the reaction between fatty acids and a base. The fats can be oils or butters and the base is caustic soda, used today, or wood ash lye, used since ancient times.
Soaps can be prepared by different methods, hot or cold. Essential oils, spices or aromatic herbs, clay, salt or sugar can be added to the soap base obtained.
Soap making involves the use of kitchen utensils, protective equipment and some safety rules.
You can try these natural Brazilian butters to create unique soaps full of the energy of the Amazon Rainforest. Available @ Rainforest Chica
A wonderful book with valuable advice and accessible recipes is the one written by Shannon Buck: “200 Tips, Techniques & Recipes for Natural Beauty”.
Available on Kindle.