Have you ever wondered whether the medicinal properties of herbs survive saponification? Saponification is the chemical reaction that occurs when fats and oils are mixed with a strong alkali, such as sodium hydroxide or potassium hydroxide, to produce soap and glycerol. The question of whether the medicinal properties of herbs are preserved during this process is an interesting one, and the answer depends on several factors.
The extent to which the medicinal properties of herbs survive saponification depends on various factors, such as the specific herb being used, the concentration and type of active compounds present in the herb, and the conditions under which the saponification process takes place. While saponification can alter the chemical composition of herbs, it doesn't necessarily mean that all medicinal properties are lost during the process.
Studies have shown that certain medicinal properties of oil, can be preserved during saponification, however not herbs. For example, soap made from olive oil retains some of the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of the oil. Similarly, soap made from coconut oil has been found to have antimicrobial properties, likely due to the presence of lauric acid in the oil.
However, medicinal properties are also lost during saponification. Infusions of herbs normally take place at low temperatures. In soapmaking volatile compounds are lost due to the high temperatures used during the process. Additionally, some compounds are rendered completely inactive due to chemical changes that occur during saponification.
In conclusion, while saponification can alter the chemical composition of herbs, it doesn't necessarily mean that all medicinal properties (including those from oil) are lost during the process. The extent to which medicinal properties survive saponification depends on several factors, and it's important to consider these factors when making herbal soap.