The wonder of woodlands

Make your own laundry soap — and it could be from your very own woodland

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WOODLANDS.CO.UK EXPLAINS HOW TO MAKE ECO-FRIENDLY LAUNDRY SOAP FROM ENGLISH IVY.

When looking for an eco-friendly way to tackle laundry stains, look no further than your local woodland. English Ivy (Hedera helix), a plant often found growing in abundance around the UK, can be transformed into an effective, natural laundry soap that's as gentle on the environment as it is tough on stains. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make your laundry soap from this versatile plant, as shared by Nicola Kelleher for Woodlands.co.uk.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE FORAGING

Before you head out to collect your English Ivy, it's essential to take precautions:

• Wear Gloves: English Ivy can cause skin irritation for some people, so always wear gloves when handling it.

• Foraging regulations: Before collecting Ivy, check any local regulations, as there may be restrictions on gathering plants in certain areas.

A common myth about Ivy is that it stresses trees by putting pressure on their branches. However, Ivy does not actually cause them any harm. It's a resilient plant that thrives in many conditions and is found in woodlands, gardens, and hedgerows throughout the UK.

English Ivy contains a substance known as Saponins, plant compounds with natural soap-like properties. These Saponins help to break down dirt and grime, making English Ivy a perfect ingredient for homemade laundry soap.