Maragheh Soap

Soap is one of the most widely used substances in the health and cosmetic industries, but in most soaps produced, such chemical substances are used the production of which not only cause great harm to the environment but also cause damage to the skin if consumed in excess. However, there are still types of old soaps that do not have these undesirable characteristics. Maragheh soap, which is known as one of the souvenirs of this city, is one of these types of soap that is produced in a traditional method.

Maragheh, which is the second largest and most populated city of East Azarbaijan Province, has many historical and natural sites. In addition to these attractions, some agricultural and livestock products of this city are also very famous, one of which is the Maragheh soap.

History and Properties of Maragheh Soap

Maragheh has been known for making natural soaps since at least 150 years ago. Due to the production method and materials used in its production, these soaps maintain their properties for more than 10 years. According to the people of Maragheh, the longer Maragheh soap is left, the better it becomes and has a better cleaning effect. The use of Maragheh soap is recommended for those with very oily skin. The skin becomes very soft after using this soap.

Maragheh soap is made in three colors: white, yellow, and black. Black soap is made from the waste of other soaps and is cheaper. Of course, sometimes cedar and henna are added to black soap to increase its properties. These types of soaps are used as alternatives to chemical shampoos in washing hair and are useful in strengthening hair follicles and eliminating dandruff and hair loss.

Among the different types of Maragheh soaps, yellow soap is more popular due to its proper PH and controlled amount of acids. This type of soap causes the least skin sensitivities, even in people who have sensitive skin.

Using Maragheh soap to wash the depth of the hair will remove excess fats from it and remove the pollution that causes damage to the hair. Unlike prevalent shampoos, Maragheh soap opens the pores of the scalp so that its normal glandular secretions can happen in a better way.

The health and unique properties of Maragheh soap have made this product find many customers in neighboring countries and regions of Iran, such as Turkey, Caucasus, Central Asia, and Iraq.

Maragheh Soap and Sangak Bread!

Sangak bread is one of the traditional Iranian breads that is baked in the oven the floor of which is covered with hot pebbles. This bread is used in serving many traditional Iranian dishes, such as Abgoosht and Khash. The cooking method of Sangak bread has made its taste special and popular.

In order to make the surface of the pebbles inside the oven suitable for spreading and baking the dough, Sangak bakers apply a very thin layer of Maragheh soap on a heavy wooden board and rub it on the pebbles. This makes the surface of the pebbles even, prevents the pebbles from sticking to the dough, and makes the dough roast well. Since Maragheh soap is made from completely natural ingredients, it is known as one of the healthiest options among Sangak bakers.

How Is Maragheh Soap Made?

In the production of Maragheh soap, animal fat is the most important raw material. Since Maragheh is known as the center of soap production, animal tallow (waste fat) is collected from all surrounding cities and transported to this city. Then they heat the collected tallows in large cauldrons and add caustic soda to it. Caustic soda or sodium hydroxide is a white solid substance that can cause chemical burns in contact with human skin, but it is widely used in the soap-making industry. This material was discovered by soap makers from the beginning and used to produce it.

Maragheh, which is the second largest and most populated city of East Azarbaijan Province, has many historical and natural sites. In addition to these attractions, some agricultural and livestock products of this city are also very famous, one of which is the Maragheh soap.