What is Persian Maragheh Soap and Benefits
- Rooshoor London
- Nov 25
- 3 min read
Maragheh soap (Persian: صابون مراغه) is one of Iran’s oldest traditional soaps, made through a natural process using sheep tallow, alkaline water, and plant-based lye. It contains no artificial chemicals, fragrances, or synthetic additives.
Maragheh Soap: A Natural Persian Treasure With Timeless Benefits
If you walk through the old bazaars of Tabriz or Maragheh, you will still find stacks of golden, oval-shaped soaps known as Maragheh soap. With a history of over 200 years, this traditional Persian soap has survived the rise of modern cosmetics because of its simplicity, purity, and effectiveness.
In this article, we’ll explore how Maragheh soap is made, its different types, benefits for skin and hair, and tips for using it correctly.
How Maragheh Soap Is Made
Maragheh soap is produced using a classic, chemical-free method:
Boiling pure sheep tallow
Mixing it with alkaline water (derived from ash and water)
Adding natural lye in precise amounts
Long slow cooking until the mixture becomes uniform
Pouring into molds and drying naturally under sunlight
This traditional process results in a completely natural soap rich in healthy animal fats.
Types of Maragheh Soap
1. Yellow (most popular)
Contains natural fats
Best for hair care
Suitable for dry or sensitive skin
Lighter and less oily
Good for oily or combination skin
Benefits for the Skin
● Preserves natural moisture
Tallow creates a protective layer that prevents dryness.
● Helps reduce inflammation and irritation
Suitable for people sensitive to synthetic fragrances and detergents.
● Safe for babies and children
Because it contains no chemicals, dyes, or artificial scents.
Maragheh soap has remained a trusted natural cleanser for centuries, and much of its popularity comes from its impressive range of benefits for both skin and hair. Made from pure sheep tallow and alkaline water, it is free from synthetic chemicals commonly found in modern soaps. Below are the key benefits that make this traditional Persian soap stand out:
1. Completely Natural and Chemical-Free
Unlike mass-produced soaps that contain artificial fragrances, preservatives, and harsh detergents, Maragheh soap is made from only three simple ingredients. This makes it ideal for those with sensitive skin, allergies, eczema, or anyone seeking a natural skincare routine.
2. Nourishes and Softens the Skin
The natural fats in sheep tallow create a gentle moisturizing layer on the skin, helping to prevent dryness and irritation. It cleanses without stripping away essential oils, making it suitable for daily use.
3. Strengthens and Conditions Hair
The yellow variety of Maragheh soap is especially valued for hair care. Its rich, fatty composition naturally softens hair, reduces frizz, and can help decrease breakage and hair fall. Many users also notice increased shine and smoother texture with regular use.
4. Helps Reduce Dandruff and Itchiness
Thanks to its natural alkaline balance, Maragheh soap can calm an irritated scalp and reduce dandruff without the need for harsh anti-dandruff chemicals. It gently cleanses while maintaining scalp health.
5. Long-Lasting and Economical
Maragheh soap is dense and dries slowly, which means each bar lasts significantly longer than most commercial soaps. This makes it not only a natural choice but also an economical one.
6. Versatile for Home Use
Beyond personal care, Maragheh soap is excellent for washing clothes, carpets, wool fabrics, and delicate handwoven items. Its strong cleaning power removes dirt effectively without damaging fibers.
Benefits for the Hair
● Softens and strengthens hair
The natural fats act as a gentle conditioner.
● Helps reduce split ends
The fatty layer smooths and protects damaged strands.
● Supports a healthy scalp
Its natural alkalinity can help reduce dandruff and itching.
How to Use Maragheh Soap for Hair
To get the best results:
Wet your hair thoroughly.
Rub the soap between your palms to create a rich lather.
Apply the foam to your scalp and hair.
Massage for about 2 minutes.
Rinse well with warm water.
Finish with a mild acidic rinse (e.g., diluted apple cider vinegar) to balance pH and improve softness.
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