Gentle Soapwort Soap

4 cups (950 ml) distilled or filtered water
2 cups (43 g) chopped fresh or 1 cup (43 g) dried soapwort
1/4 cup dried (12 g) lavender, optional

Soapwort is an herb your grandmother may have used to launder her favorite delicate linens, and it may be making a comeback as more and more people turn to natural cleaning methods around the home. It contains saponins, which when mixed with water, create a light, foamy lather. Soapwort is an easy to gro perennial ground cover, so you could easily have your own supply from your garden. Bring the water to a gentle boil. Add the soapwort and lavender, if using. Steep the herbs, covered for 15 minutes. Allow to cool to room temperature, then strain the mixture through a small sieve lined with a coffee filter or cheesecloth. Swish the water to create gentle. sudsy foan and use as you would any soap for delicate, washable fabrics.