In response to someone's comment on my most recent entry regarding neem lotion (a message I can't figure out how to respond to directly and so therefore am just adding the response as a post), here is the recipe I use to make neem lotion. Other types of soap can be used than the one listed here. But, changing the type of soap does change the proportions a little (mainly the proportion of water), so keep that in mind if you use a different kind. I've tried out several different types of soap available in Senegal and this one works the best- it produces the most neem lotion for its cost and is also scented, which people like a lot in the lotion and covers up the neem smell.
1 lg (400-500g) bar of "Fanico" soap (also known generically as 'savon de marseille')
Nearly 1.5L of water (I boil this much water, but usually end up leaving a slight amount in the pot)
Broken Neem leaves (approx. one coffee cup full)
1/10L oil (100cfa worth in Senegal)
Directions:
-Grate the bar of soap into small pieces (grating works better than cutting as larger pieces have a harder time dissolving into the water- using a metal lid with nail holes poked into it works well).
-Collect the neem leaves and break them several times (it helps release the oils)
-Add the cut up neem leaves to the water and boil. The water will start to turn green and will start to smell. This is good. Leave the water to boil for 5-10min.
-Strain out the neem leaves, adding just the water to the grated soap.
-Stir until everything is dissolved (this may take a while)
-Add the 100cfa (1/10L) oil and mix well
-Wait for the mixture to cool, stirring periodically to make sure it is still well mixed
-Distribute as you see fit (plastic bags, small containers, etc)
I hope this helps!
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1 comment:
Thanks so much. I plan on growing neem in Belize and want all the "recipes" for this amazing tree.
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