The Elaeocarpus sphaericus fruit, also known as the banyan fruit, has long been revered for its exceptional cleansing properties. Traditionally, people used banyan fruit to make dishwashing liquid and laundry detergent. However, with the advent of industrialization, these natural products were gradually replaced by chemical alternatives that offered convenience, speed, and affordability.
But if you’re seeking a dishwashing liquid that’s kind to the environment and your skin, it’s time to ditch the chemical-laden options! The following article will guide you through the simple process of making your own banyan fruit-based dishwashing liquid.
1 Is Banyan Fruit an Effective Dishwashing Agent?
Banyan fruit contains a powerful cleansing agent known as saponin, which effectively removes stubborn stains and grease. When combined with water, this natural surfactant creates a rich lather that is gentle on the skin, even for children.
While it may not match the grease-cutting power of chemical detergents, banyan fruit dishwashing liquid can remove up to 70% of grime and oil. Nevertheless, it is a safe and eco-friendly alternative. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create your own natural dish soap that is kind to both your hands and the planet.
2 How to Make Dishwashing Liquid from Banyan Fruit
Ingredients for Banyan Fruit Dishwashing Liquid
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20 dried, seedless banyan fruits, approximately 1 cup or 200ml
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1 liter of water
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1 cinnamon stick
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2 lemongrass stalks
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1/3 of a grapefruit peel (alternatively, you can use orange or lemon peel)
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50-70g of natural sweetener, such as honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)
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A large plastic bottle with a spout for easy dispensing
Instructions for Making Banyan Fruit Dishwashing Liquid
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Choose seedless banyan fruits, or remove the seeds yourself if necessary. Soak the fruits in a glass or stainless-steel container with 1 liter of water for approximately 12 hours.
For the citrus peel, use a zester or a sharp knife to create thin strips of grapefruit peel. You can also use orange or lemon peel, or a combination of all three. Soak the peel in boiling water (about 100ml) to release the essential oils.
Step 2: Cook the Banyan Fruit
After the soaking period, pour the banyan fruit water into a saucepan and add the cinnamon stick, lemongrass, and sweetener. Bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer for 45 minutes.
Next, add the citrus peel-infused water to the pot and stir well. Turn off the heat and allow the mixture to cool. Once cooled, strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids and pour the dishwashing liquid into your dispensing bottle.
The Final Product
Your homemade banyan fruit dishwashing liquid will have a subtle fragrance from the cinnamon and lemongrass, with a hint of citrus. Like its chemical counterparts, it will produce a rich lather when used. Simply apply a small amount to a sponge or scrubber and watch it cut through grease and grime with ease.
3 Important Notes
- When using a 1-liter container for soaking, opt for a larger bottle to allow for gas release during the process.
- Maintain a ratio of 3 parts banyan fruit to 1 part sweetener to prevent the mixture from becoming too gooey.
- Feel free to experiment with different essential oils to create your desired fragrance.
- Avoid over-reducing the liquid, as it may hinder the formation of a rich lather during use.
If you’re a fan of natural cleaning solutions, why not give this banyan fruit dishwashing liquid a try? It’s an effective and gentle alternative to conventional detergents. Good luck, and happy cleaning!
This article has provided you with a simple, yet effective, method for creating your own dishwashing liquid using banyan fruit. We wish you success and hope you enjoy the process!
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