wilma legault

How have different West African regions adapted and modified black soap-making techniques, and what factors have influenced these variations?

Started Dec. 20, 2024

Abstract or project description

My research will focus on the soap-making process of African black soap in West Africa, examining how its composition and production methods have evolved across different regions based on locally available ingredients and cultural practices. This project will explore how various West African communities—and beyond—have adapted and modified black soap-making techniques over time.

For example, in Nigeria, black soap is traditionally made with shea butter, while other regions may incorporate cocoa butter, palm oil, or other locally sourced fats. In Algeria, olive oil is a key ingredient, reflecting the region’s agricultural resources. While the base of black soap often remains the same—ashes derived from plantain peels, banana skins, or other plant materials—the variations in oils and additional ingredients raise important questions:

How do different ingredients affect the soap’s cleansing properties and benefits for the skin?

Do these variations stem purely from resource availability, or do they hold deeper cultural or spiritual significance?

This research will examine the historical, chemical, and societal factors that have shaped black soap-making traditions, analyzing how different formulations impact both skincare and cultural identity.