A clear, pale green soap that incorporates fresh lettuce into its formula. The lettuce acts as a deodorant and skin freshener. The lather is rich.
10 ounces of lard
10 ounces of distilled water
10 to 20 ounces of lettuce
8 ounces of coconut oil
3 1/2 ounces of lye
5 ounces of distilled water
Scent: 4 drops oil of bergamot
2 drops oil of rose geranium
The day before, simmer the lettuce and shortening together. Place shortening, 5 ounces distilled water, all together in an enamel pot. Put lid on and simmer several hours until lettuce goes limp and color is strong. Remove from heat and pour through a strainer with a cloth in the strainer. Squeeze cloth until all juice is removed and in the mixture. Place in the fridge.
After several hours the mixture of shortening will rise to the top and water will be on the bottom. Remove the top layer and scrape or pat away any moisture.
Check the weight before mixing with the lye mixture. If any weight has been lost, (10 ounces), add more shortening.
Put the lettuce shortening mixture in an enamel pot. Heat to melt, reach 90 F.
Dissolve the lye in the 10 ounces of distilled water and reach 85 F.
Add lye mixture to oils. Trace. Pour in molds. Cover with blanket. Let cure for 2 to 3 weeks before testing on skin.
