Soapnut and Eco Enzyme, Multipurpose Natural Biodegradable Cleaner.

Our bodies naturally produce sweat and oil to excrete the body’s byproducts, regulate body temperature, and keep our skin lubricated. However, the sweat can trap dirt, dead skin cells, and pollutants. Similarly to our hair, the scalp creates sebum, a natural oil that helps keep hair moisturized and protected. However, the accumulation of sebum will make hair look greasy and smell unpleasant. Further, an uncleaned house will accumulate dirt and dust, potentially harming the respiratory system and spreading other illnesses. To eliminate dirt, cleaning products must be used to maintain a healthy and hygienic home and body. Yet, most cleaning products rely on harsh chemicals that act as cleaning properties. Not all people can withstand the harsh chemicals. Some unfortunate beings are prone to skin irritation, such as people suffering from eczema. Further, not all harsh chemicals are degradable or environmentally friendly. Certain chemicals in detergents can disrupt aquatic ecosystems when they enter waterways through wastewater, for instance, the algal bloom. Fortunately, we can always opt for a safer gentler option like natural biodegradable cleaner products. In this matter, we will provide you with info on how to make your simple natural cleaner, specifically soapnut and eco enzyme.

Soapnuts, also known as soapberries or washberries, are the dried fruit of the Sapindus plant. They are a natural source of saponin, a compound that produces mild lather and acts as cleansing properties. The saponin is released after being in contact with water. The soapnuts are multipurpose and can be used as all cleaning reagents, for laundry, dishes, and even as insecticides. Moreover, since it is naturally made, they are free of harsh chemicals, phosphates, and artificial fragrances. They are biodegradable and gentle, making them a great option for people who have sensitive skin and the environment. 

To make soapnut is super simple!

• First Method (Liquor Soapnuts)
  
  Ingredients and Materials
  Soapnuts (6-8 shells)
  Water (5 cups)
  Saucepan
  Stove/fire
  Container (for storing the soap)
  
  Steps

1. Put the soapnut and water into the saucepan, and allow to boil.
2. Add 5-10 drops of essential oil, or citrus scarps, or flower petals to give a fragrance to the liquor (you can skip this step).
3. Reduce to simmer, simmer for another 30 minutes. This process lets the saponin be released, and the lather is created in the process.
4. Strain out the soapnut, and store the soapnut shells as they can be used again for other 2-4 times.
5. Allow the liquor to cool down, and store it in a container. This liquor then can be used.

For laundry, you can use 2-3 tablespoons of liquor per load.
For dishwasher, floor cleaner or pesticide, dilute 5 ml of the liquor with 100 ml of water.
For bath and shampoo, use as your necessity.

Important note: if you decide to use essential oils, make sure that it has been diluted as concentrated essential oils can irritate the skin.

• Second Method (The Small Pouch for Laundry Only)
  
  Ingredients and Materials
  Soapnuts (6-8 shells)
  Small pouch (cotton or other materials that allow water absorption)
  
  Steps

1. Put the soapnuts into the small pouch
2. Put the small pouch directly into the laundry (ensure that it is in contact with water and the clothes)
3. After done, store back the soapnut for other 2-3x uses.

Now, let’s move on to eco enzyme!

Eco enzyme is first introduced by Dr Rosukon Poompanvong, founder of the Thai Organic Agriculture Association. Eco enzyme itself refers to the result of fermentation of organic kitchen waste such as fruit scarps and vegetable pulp with brown sugar and water in an airtight container. The fermentation process breaks down the organic matter and produces a concentrated liquid rich in enzymes, beneficial microorganisms, and organic acids. Eco enzyme is a popular multipurpose natural biodegradable cleaner (shampoo, soap, dishwasher, detergent, floor cleaner), pesticide, and fertilizer. It can be used as a cleaner because the enzymes assist in breaking down dirt and grease, and work as cleansing properties. Moreover, organic acids like lactic acid and acetic acid work as mild disinfecting properties that break down grease.

• So, how to make eco enzyme? 

  Ingredients and Materials
  Fruit waste (chopped into small pieces)
  Brown sugar
  Water
  Airtight container
  Sieve
  
  Always use this ratio
  Fruit waste: Brown sugar: Water (3:1:10)
  For instance,
  300 g of fruit waste: 100 g of brown sugar: 10 liters of water

  Steps

1. Mix and stir well all the ingredients in your clean airtight container
2. After done, label the container with the first date you created the eco enzyme (to be aware of the fermentation process date).
3. Store the container in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
4. The fermentation will take up to 3 months. After a month passed, open the container for 10 seconds to allow the built-up gas to release (also to prevent the explosion of gas).
5. After 3 months, strain out the organic matter with a sieve. You can reuse them for another eco enzyme batch (with the addition of fresh organic waste of course) or you may compost the leftover organic waste.
6. The resulting liquid is concentrated eco enzyme, dilute before use. Store in an airtight container for future use.

Additional notes:

• The ideal colour of eco enzyme should be dark brown, if it has a black colour, add more brown sugar.
• Eco enzyme never expired. Do not store in the refrigerator/chiller.
• Only use organic waste of vegetables and fruits. Do not add leftover meat, bones, manure, etc.

Dilution is necessary. Below are the recipes of eco enzyme dilution for different uses
(info source from Zero Waste Indonesia and others)

So, that’s it! By creating your own soapnut cleaner or eco enzyme, not only that you save pennies but you also save the world (through minimizing the organic waste built up in the environment and lessening the gas emissions).

Cheers!