Natural skincare is no longer a trend—it’s a return to our roots. One ancient Ayurvedic ingredient that continues to shine in holistic beauty care is Aritha, also known as Reetha or soapnut. Revered for its gentle cleansing properties and skin-healing benefits, Aritha has traditionally been used in homemade shampoos and facial cleansers. But did you know you can also use it to create a natural body scrub soap?
At Dirghaanshi, we’re passionate about rediscovering the power of Ayurvedic herbs. In this guide, we’ll teach you how to create a DIY Aritha body scrub soap that not only exfoliates but also deeply nourishes your skin—without any chemicals, parabens, or artificial fragrances. This article will cover its benefits, a step-by-step recipe, best herbal combinations, and pro tips for glowing skin.
📖 Long Description
🌿 What is Aritha (Reetha)?
Aritha is the dried fruit of the Sapindus mukorossi tree, native to India. When soaked in water or boiled, it releases saponins, which act as natural cleansers that create a mild lather. This makes Aritha ideal for sensitive and acne-prone skin.
In Ayurveda, Aritha is believed to balance Kapha and Pitta doshas and is recommended for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and cleansing properties.
✨ Why Use Aritha Soap for Body Scrubbing?
Unlike commercial body scrubs filled with microplastics and chemical exfoliants, Aritha-based soap offers a holistic and natural alternative for exfoliating dead skin cells and detoxifying the skin.
🌟 Key Benefits of Aritha Scrub Soap:
Benefit Description
Natural exfoliation Gently removes dead skin without harsh abrasives
Deep cleansing Clears clogged pores and sweat residue
Prevents acne and body pimples Its antifungal properties help prevent breakouts
Improves skin texture Promotes smoother, more radiant skin
No harmful ingredients Free from SLS, parabens, artificial dyes, and synthetic fragrance
🧴 Ingredients for DIY Aritha Body Scrub Soap
Here’s what you’ll need to create your homemade soap:
🧪 Base Ingredients:
Aritha powder (soapnut powder) – 2 tablespoons
Multani mitti (Fuller’s earth) – 1 tablespoon
Gram flour (Besan) – 1 tablespoon
Coconut oil or olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Shea butter or Aloe vera gel – 1 tablespoon
Essential oils (optional) – 5–10 drops (like lavender, neem, or tea tree)
🌿 Add-Ons for Scrubbing Texture:
Oats powder – for gentle exfoliation
Crushed orange peel or rose petals – for fragrance and smoothness
Brown sugar or coffee grounds – for a more intense scrub
🔧 DIY Recipe: Step-by-Step Preparation
✅ Step 1: Create Your Soap Base
If using melt-and-pour soap base (natural glycerin or shea butter base), melt it in a double boiler. Otherwise, proceed with a fully herbal version.
✅ Step 2: Mix the Powders
In a mixing bowl:
Add 2 tbsp Aritha powder
Add 1 tbsp multani mitti
Add 1 tbsp besan
Add exfoliants (oats, coffee, sugar, etc.) as per preference
✅ Step 3: Add Oils and Moisturizers
Pour in 2 tbsp coconut/olive oil
Mix in 1 tbsp shea butter or aloe vera
Add 5–10 drops of essential oil if desired
✅ Step 4: Combine and Mold
Mix all ingredients into a thick paste
Pour into soap molds or cupcake trays
Refrigerate or air dry for 24–48 hours until firm
✅ Step 5: Store and Use
Once hardened, store in a dry container
Use 2–3 times a week as a body scrub soap bar
🧼 How to Use Aritha Scrub Soap
Wet skin under warm water
Gently rub Aritha soap bar on damp skin in circular motions
Focus on rough areas like elbows, knees, back, and feet
Rinse thoroughly
Pat dry and moisturize with natural oil (like almond or sesame)
🌸 Best Herbal Ingredients to Combine with Aritha
Herbal Add-On Benefit
Neem Powder Fights acne and fungal infections
Turmeric Brightens and heals inflamed skin
Manjistha Improves skin tone and clears pigmentation
Rose Petals Soothes skin and adds fragrance
Amla Powder Rich in Vitamin C, tightens skin
🗓️ Weekly Routine Using Aritha Soap Scrub
Day Routine
Monday Aritha body scrub soap in morning shower
Wednesday Aritha soap + oil massage post-use
Friday Scrub soap + turmeric paste before bath
Sunday Full-body scrub with Aritha soap and rose water rinse
✅ Who Should Use It?
Ideal For:
People with oily or acne-prone body skin
Those with sensitive skin avoiding chemicals
Users seeking natural exfoliation
Individuals with pigmentation or rough texture
⚠️ Precautions and Tips
Patch test before use on sensitive skin
Avoid direct contact with eyes
Store in a dry place to avoid melting
If you have very dry skin, limit usage to once a week
For added moisturization, use aloe vera gel or almond oil after bathing
🧪 Ayurvedic Insight
In Ayurvedic texts, Aritha (Reetha) is recognized for Shothahara (anti-inflammatory) and Krumighna (antimicrobial) qualities. It is particularly helpful in managing Kapha skin disorders, like clogged pores, acne, or fungal infections.
Combining with oil-based and cooling herbs balances Aritha’s naturally drying property, making it ideal for regular skincare.
🤔 FAQs
❓ Can I use Aritha body scrub soap every day?
For oily skin, 3–4 times a week is safe. For dry skin, once a week is enough. Always follow up with moisturizer.
❓ Does it foam like regular soap?
Aritha produces mild, natural foam. It won’t be like chemical-based soaps, but it cleanses effectively.
❓ Can I use this soap on my face?
You can, but avoid near the eyes. Make a gentler version with more aloe vera for facial use.
❓ How long does homemade Aritha soap last?
If stored in a cool, dry place, it lasts 2–3 months. Keep away from excess moisture to prevent softening.
❓ Is Aritha safe for kids?
Yes, but make a milder version without scrubbing ingredients and do a patch test.
✅ Conclusion
Aritha Soap for Body Scrub is a simple yet powerful way to cleanse, exfoliate, and rejuvenate your skin naturally. By combining the detoxifying properties of Aritha with nourishing herbs and oils, you can enjoy radiant, smooth, and healthy skin—free from toxins and chemicals.
At Dirghaanshi, we encourage embracing natural, Ayurvedic self-care rituals for daily wellness. This DIY scrub soap recipe brings together ancient wisdom and modern convenience in a cost-effective, eco-friendly solution.
