LYE/SOAP....How to Make Lye from soap ashes...

[Morningstar88]

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Lye

[Morningstar88]

The Basics of Making Lye Lye is an alkaline solution that is used to make soaps, as a cleaning product, and sometimes as a solution to cure foods. It is potassium hydroxide, sometimes called caustic soda, and has a pH of about 13. This level of alkalinity can burn your skin and corrode some materials so you need to take precautions when making lye.

[Morningstar88]

One way to produce lye in your home kitchen is with rainwater and hardwood ash, which you will have to collect. You need a wooden barrel, metal containers for the ashes, a rain barrel to collect the water, and safe containers to capture the leached lye water. The process involves boiling the ashes from a hardwood fire (soft woods have too much resin to mix with fat) in a little soft water—rainwater is best. Boil for about half an hour, let the ashes settle to the bottom of the pan, and then skim the liquid lye off the top.

[Morningstar88]

What is Wood-Ash Lye? Wood ash contains potassium hydroxide and sodium hydroxide, commonly known as lye or caustic soda. When water is poured over the ashes, these compounds dissolve into the water to make a strongly alkaline lye solution. This lye water reacts with fats such as lard or tallow to trigger the chemical process of making soap.

[Morningstar88]

https://www.bing.com/search?pglt=41&q=woodash+lye+make+reddit&

[Morningstar88]

https://www.bing.com/search?q=what+color+should+wood+ash+to+make+lye+water+be&FORM=AWRE

[Morningstar88]

Well, wood ash is a byproduct of burning wood and contains compounds such as potassium carbonate and potassium hydroxide. When mixed with lye water, which is made from dissolving lye in water, it can create a basic solution that is commonly used in traditional soap making. The reaction between the wood ash and lye water creates a chemical reaction that produces glycerin, which is a common ingredient in soaps and other cleaning products. The glycerin produced from this reaction can also be used in other applications, such as moisturizers and laxatives.

[Morningstar88]

Yes, tamarind seed ash can be used as a substitute for wood ash in making lye water for traditional soap making. Tamarind seeds contain a high concentration of potassium hydroxide, which is the primary alkalizing agent in the process. However, it's important to note that tamarind seed ash may not be as pure or concentrated as wood ash, so it may require a higher quantity to achieve the desired results. Additionally, it's important to handle both tamarind seed ash and lye water with caution, as they can be harmful if not handled properly.

wow, very cool... what color ash has the most lye? white or black?

Both white and black ash can be used to make lye water, as the color of the ash does not necessarily affect the amount of lye present. The lye content in wood ash is primarily determined by the mineral composition of the wood, rather than its color. Black ash tends to have higher levels of minerals and impurities such as carbon, which can affect the purity and quality of the lye produced. White ash, on the other hand, tends to have fewer impurities and can produce a purer form of lye.

[Morningstar88]

aha, getting it... ash is black first, then white, correct?

[Morningstar88]

Yes, that's correct. Wood burns from the outside in, so the outer layers of the wood burn and produce ash first, which appears black in color. As the wood continues to burn, the ash beneath the outer layers becomes exposed to more oxygen and turns white as it oxidizes. This white ash is often considered to be of higher quality and purity for making lye water. However, it's important to note that both black and white ash can be used to produce lye, but the white ash is typically considered higher quality.

[Morningstar88]

Yes, you can say that this is a form of redneck alchemy, as the process of transforming wood into lye involves the classical alchemical principles of nigredo (blackening) and albedo (whitening). In traditional alchemy, these stages represent the initial phase of transformation, where impurities and impurities are removed to reveal the purity of the final product. So, in terms of wood ash and lye, the process can be seen as an expression of this alchemical principle.

[Morningstar88]

why do cultures and civilizations who drink lye water stay secretive about this practice?

[Morningstar88]

There are various reasons why cultures and civilizations that practice the consumption of lye water may be secretive about it. Some of these reasons include:

1. Safety concerns: Lye water is highly alkaline and can cause burns and damage to the digestive tract if consumed in high concentrations or improperly prepared.
2. Cultural taboos: The practice of consuming lye water may be associated with cultural taboos and superstitions, making people reluctant to discuss it openly.
3. Legal restrictions: In some countries, the consumption of lye water may be banned or heavily restricted, leading people to keep it a secret.

[Morningstar88]

good... but the lye solution from a little woodash in water is very diluted, and virtually a microdose of lye, right?

(ANSWER HEAVILY MODERATED< NOT WORTH PASTING)

[Morningstar88]

Lye is a chemical compound that is used in cooking for various purposes. It is especially known for its ability to break down tough connective tissues in meat and vegetables. Some examples of its uses in food preparation include:

1. Making pretzels: Lye is used to give pretzels their distinctive dark color and chewy texture.
2. Making alkaline noodles: Lye is used to increase the pH of noodle dough, which results in a chewier texture and a longer shelf life.
3. Processing olives: lye is used to remove the bitter taste from black olives through a process called "laching".

[Morningstar88]

Sure! Lye is often used in the traditional preparation of pretzels, giving them their distinctive dark brown exterior and chewy texture. The pretzels are first boiled in a solution of water and food-grade lye, which gives them their distinct flavor and color. The lye solution also helps the pretzels to puff up and form a blistery surface when they are baked. After boiling, the pretzels are sprinkled with coarse salt, sugar or other toppings, and baked in a hot oven.

[Morningstar88]

cool.. how do you know if lye is present in a woodash and water solution?

[Morningstar88]

To test for the presence of lye in a wood ash and water solution, you can perform a pH test. Lye, also known as sodium hydroxide or caustic soda, is a highly alkaline substance, and has a pH level above 7. To perform a pH test, use litmus paper or a pH meter to measure the acidity or alkalinity of the solution. If the pH level is above 7, it suggests the presence of lye in the solution. However, it's important to note that a chemical test or laboratory analysis is the most reliable way to confirm the presence of lye.

[Morningstar88]

very good... what is even simpler than litmus paper? is there such a thing as litmus drops? what is litmus?

[Morningstar88]

Yes, there are non-lichen based litmus alternatives. Some alternative indicators include phenolphthalein, bromothymol blue, and thymol blue. These synthetic indicators change color in the presence of acidic or alkaline substances similar to litmus, and are commonly used in chemistry and laboratory settings. Additionally, some plants, such as red cabbage, can also be used as natural indicators by extracting and testing their colors.

[Morningstar88]

https://www.one-tab.com/page/BoS3pTIDQ2ezRkh4fj_t9Q

[Morningstar88]

cheers... can wood ash start to purify water?

[Morningstar88]

Yes, wood ash can help to purify water. This is because wood ash contains a high concentration of alkalizing substances such as potassium hydroxide, which can neutralize acidic compounds in water and raise the pH level. Wood ash can also act as a natural filtration medium and remove solid impurities in water through a process called adsorption. However, it is important to note that the efficiency of wood ash in purification depends on its chemical composition and the type of contaminants present in the water. Additionally, wood ash may also introduce some impurities into the water if it is not properly filtered and cleaned prior to use.

[Morningstar88]

thanks.. how does potassium hydroxide in wood ash purify water?

[Morningstar88]

Potassium hydroxide, which is found in wood ash, has strong alkalizing properties and can neutralize acidic substances in water through the process of proton exchange. When it comes to water purification, potassium hydroxide can neutralize acidic impurities and raise the pH level of the water, creating a more neutral environment. This can neutralize harmful contaminants such as heavy metals, hydrogen sulfide and acidic organic compounds that may be present in the water. Additionally, the presence of alkalizing substances in the water may improve the taste and odor of the water, making it more palatable to drink.

[Morningstar88]

wow.. what cultures drank wood ash drinks as a general tonic?

Wood ash mixed with water has been used throughout history as a general tonic or remedy in different cultures. Some examples include:

1. Ancient Rome: Wood ash was reportedly used as a curative in ancient Rome, where it was mixed with wine and consumed to relieve joint pain, muscle aches and digestive issues.
2. Native American: Wood ash was also used as a cure-all by some Native American tribes, mixed with water and used to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, stomach aches and skin conditions.

[Morningstar88]

Wood ash mixed with water has been used throughout history as a general tonic or remedy in different cultures. Some examples include:

1. Ancient Rome: Wood ash was reportedly used as a curative in ancient Rome, where it was mixed with wine and consumed to relieve joint pain, muscle aches and digestive issues.
2. Native American: Wood ash was also used as a cure-all-- Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all Wood ash was also used as a cure-all by some Native American tribes, mixed with water and used to treat a variety of ailments such as fever, stomach aches and skin conditions.

[Morningstar88]

The highest lye content and most purest wood ash typically comes from wood with high levels of mineral content and low levels of impurities. Woods with a high concentration of potassium hydroxide, such as hardwoods like oak and ash, tend to produce the highest quality lye. Additionally, the process of burning the wood must be done in the right conditions to ensure maximum lye production. For example, the wood should be burned at high temperatures for a relatively short period of time, and the ash should not be exposed to water until after the burning process has completely finished.

[Morningstar88]

good.. is it best to through the ash in the water while there are embers, or after it has cooled?

[Morningstar88]

It is generally recommended to add the ash to water after it has cooled. Adding ash while there are still embers present can introduce additional impurities and char into the water, which can affect its taste and smell. Additionally, the heat from the embers can cause the ash to lose some of its alkalizing properties, reducing its effectiveness as a water treatment agent. So, it's best to let the ash cool completely and then add it slowly and carefully to the water, stirring it gently as you add it to ensure an even distribution.

[Morningstar88]

Additionally, the heat from the embers can cause the ash to lose some of its alkalizing properties, reducing its effectiveness as a water treatment agent.

[Morningstar88]

cheers.. why did the romans put ashes in wine?

[Morningstar88]

In ancient Rome, it was common to mix wood ash with wine and drink it as a general tonic or medicine. This practice was reportedly used to treat a variety of ailments, including joint pain, muscle aches and digestive issues. Wood ash has alkalizing properties that can neutralize acidic substances in the body, which may have contributed to its medicinal value. Additionally, the alcohol in the wine may have helped to preserve the ash and make it easier to consume. It's worth noting that the effectiveness of this remedy has not been scientifically proven and the practice is no longer common.

[Morningstar88]

a : a substance that burns or destroys organic tissue by chemical action b : a strong corrosive alkali (such as sodium hydroxide)

[Morningstar88]

cool....very good, thanks...

if you have an ash and lye solution, can you agitate it? or is stirring plus leaving it some time better

[Morningstar88]

Yes, you can agitate or stir the ash and lye water solution, as this can help to ensure that all the lye is dissolved and distributed evenly in the water. However, it is important to avoid stirring too vigorously or creating too much agitation, as this can cause the lye solution to aerate and create dangerous fumes. It is generally recommended to stir the solution gently and in a well-ventilated area, and to avoid allowing the solution to come into contact with your skin or eyes.

[Morningstar88]

thank you.. what are the fumes?

The fumes produced by the mixture of ash and lye water are primarily made up of hydrogen gas and ammonia gas. These gases are produced through a chemical reaction between the lye and the water. Hydrogen gas is highly flammable and explosive, while ammonia gas can be toxic and irritant to the eyes and respiratory system. The fumes can also contain other by-products from the chemical reaction, including carbon dioxide and lye vapors. It's important to note that inhaling these fumes can be harmful and even deadly, so always use protective equipment and work in a well-ventilated area.

[Morningstar88]

does the ash make any perceivable sound as it reacts with the water.... for example, baking soda and citric acid will make a slight fizzing sound...

Yes, the reaction between ash and water can cause a fizzy or sizzling sound as the alkaline compounds in the ash start to dissolve in the water. This sound is due to the release of carbon dioxide gas as the reaction occurs. The strength and length of the fizzing sound will depend on the amount of ash and water used and the reaction rate. Additionally, it's important to note that if the reaction is not controlled and the lye solution becomes too concentrated, it can release excessive amounts of carbon dioxide gas, which can be dangerous and potentially explosive.

[Morningstar88]

https://healthbenefited.com/health-benefits-of-eating-wood-ash/

[Morningstar88]

https://practicalselfreliance.com/wood-ash-uses/

[Morningstar88]

Wood ash has been used as a food supplement for centuries, and it has a wide range of health benefits. Eating wood ash can improve the digestive system, reduce inflammation, and even provide some essential minerals and nutrients.

Wood ash is especially beneficial for those who are looking for an alternative to traditional supplements, as it is naturally occurring and doesn’t contain any artificial ingredients. To incorporate wood ash into your diet, you can add it to smoothies, soups, and other dishes, or simply eat it on its own. Doing so can provide your body with a number of essential minerals and vitamins, including calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron.

Additionally, wood ash is high in antioxidants, which can help your body fight off disease and improve overall health. Eating wood ash is a great way to get all of the health benefits of traditional supplements without any of the added chemicals.

[Morningstar88]

Many readers have commented that they use wood ash for toothpaste, and that it results in the whitest teeth and prevents cavities. The theory is that it works just like modern baking soda toothpaste.

Most people who use wood ash as toothpaste simply dampen their finger, dip it in wood ash and scrub their teeth with it before rinsing. No other ingredients and no toothbrush involved. Here’s one example,

“I am from South Africa, 64 years old, and grew up on a farm where we could not afford luxuries like toothpaste, and toothbrushes, so we had to use wood ash to clean our teeth. Today I still have most of my teeth left, and my dentist confirmed that they are in a healthy state.”

Several other people that grew up during the depression in the US said the same thing. They just used wood ash and their finger, no special recipe involved. It’s just a solution for keeping your teeth clean either before modern methods, or when modern methods just aren’t available or are too expensive.

[Morningstar88]

Traditional Aleppo soap is made by the "hot process". First, the olive oil is brought into a large, in-ground vat along with water and lye. Underneath the vat, there is an underground fire that heats the contents to a boil. Boiling lasts three days while the oil reacts with the lye and water to become a thick liquid soap.

[Morningstar88]

When shea butter, which is primarily composed of triglycerides of fatty acids, is mixed with lye (sodium hydroxide) during soap-making, it undergoes a chemical reaction known as saponification. This process involves the hydroxide ions from the lye attacking the ester linkages in the triglycerides, breaking them down into soap molecules (glycerol and fatty acid salts). The end product is a new molecule, a soap, which typically has cleaning and surfactant properties.

[Morningstar88]

Soap, particularly liquid soap, can act as a preservative agent due to its ability to destroy or inhibit the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. Soap works by breaking down the lipid membranes of these organisms, disrupting their cell walls and causing them to disintegrate. This property makes soap effective in cleaning and sanitizing, as it helps to reduce the number of germs on surfaces. Additionally, the presence of surfactants in soap can contribute to its preservative abilities by disrupting and disrupting the cell membranes of pathogens.

[Morningstar88]

Yes, there are other traditional liquid soaps made from various natural ingredients. One example is castile soap, which is made from olive oil, water, and lye. Another example is liquid Marseille soap, which is made from a blend of olive oil, coconut oil, and Palm oil. Additionally, some cultures have their own unique recipes for liquid soap, using ingredients such as ash, herbs, and oils obtained from local plants and trees.

[Morningstar88]

The simplest liquid soap that can be made at home is a basic Castile liquid soap. The ingredients you will need are: 1 cup (236ml) of water or other liquid of your choice (e.g., milk, tea, or hydrosol) 1 cup (225g) of liquid olive oil 0.5 cup (96g) of liquid coconut oil 1.5 ounce (39.6g) of sodium hydroxide (lye) Optional: essential oils or herbs for fragrance.

[Morningstar88]

The process for making Castile liquid soap is as follows:

1. Put on protective gear (goggles, gloves, and long sleeves) and ensure you work in a well-ventilated area.
2. Heat the water or other liquid of your choice in a pot over low heat.
3. In a separate pot, gently melt and combine the olive oil and coconut oil, remove from heat.
4. Slowly add the lye to the melted oils while mixing continuously. Be careful to avoid splattering.
5. Gradually pour the lye-oil mixture into the heated liquid.

[Morningstar88]

Lye, or sodium hydroxide, is vital in soap-making to start the process that changes fats and oils into solid soap bars in a process called saponification. If lye isn’t used, you’d pretty much just have a bunch of loose oils floating about in a runny solution. Soap can’t be made without lye, as it’s the key alkaline substance needed for this change. While there are alternatives like potassium hydroxide for liquid soaps, all solid soaps need some type of lye for this chemical change. Working with lye requires strict safety precautions because it can cause harm. Wearing protective clothing, gloves, and eye gear is crucial to avoid contact with this harsh substance. Good ventilation and a tidy workspace also help lower the chances of accidents.

If that all sounds a bit too much, you can follow this recipe and do what I did: opt for melt-and-pour soap bases. These can be a safer choice since they already contain lye, removing the need to deal with the caustic substance directly. These bases offer a simple and convenient option for soap makers, as the lye is already mixed in. Many different bases are available online; I went with a goat’s milk base for mine. By choosing bases with ingredients like goat’s milk or oils, you can customize soaps for desired effects like moisturizing, lather, and skin benefits, all while avoiding the risks of raw lye.

[Morningstar88]

It includes just four relatively common soap making oils, including coconut oil, olive oil, castor oil, and lush mango butter. You’ll also melt half of the mango butter and add it after trace as a superfatting oil. This step makes all the difference in how the soap feels when you use it—a creamy yet well-lathering bar of soap perfect for hands, body, and even face.

[Morningstar88]

Curing Hot Process Soap In standard cold-process soapmaking, saponification is mainly complete in the first 48 hours, but it can take up to a month to finish. The exception is handmade dish soap, which you can technically use after two days. However, if you use cold-process body soap before the cure time is up, then it can feel harsh on your skin, or not have the bubbles and lather that it could have if you wait for the minimum 28-cure time to complete.