Aleppo soap is widely considered the world's oldest soap, with a history stretching back over 3,000 years to the ancient city of Aleppo in modern-day Syria. Long before modern chemistry created synthetic cleansers, soapmakers in Aleppo perfected a simple two-ingredient formula: olive oil and laurel berry oil.
Today, authentic Aleppo soap is still made using the same cold-process method, though production has expanded to France and other countries due to the Syrian conflict. The soap we carry at Sampson Eco Shop is made in France following the traditional Aleppo recipe.
The History Behind Aleppo Soap
Aleppo was a major stop on the Silk Road, and its soap became one of the region's most famous exports. Crusaders brought it back to Europe in the 11th century, where it inspired the creation of Marseille soap in France, Castile soap in Spain, and eventually most of the soap traditions across the Mediterranean.
The formula hasn't changed: 3,000-year history, olive oil + laurel berry oil, Syrian/French made. No synthetic fragrances, no preservatives, no colorants. Just two oils, water, and lye (which is fully consumed during saponification).
What Makes It Special: Laurel Berry Oil
The key differentiator of Aleppo soap is laurel berry oil. This oil, pressed from the berries of the bay laurel tree, has documented antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal properties. The percentage of laurel oil determines the soap's therapeutic strength:
- 1% laurel oil: Gentle daily cleanser, suitable for all skin types
- 5% laurel oil: Moderate therapeutic benefit — good for mild skin issues
- 25% laurel oil: Intensive care — best for chronic skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis
We carry all three strengths at Sampson Eco Shop, priced from $8.95-$13.95.
Benefits of Aleppo Soap
- Eczema and psoriasis relief: The laurel berry oil's anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe chronic skin conditions
- Gentle cleansing: The olive oil base cleanses without stripping your skin's natural oils
- Moisturizing: Both olive oil and laurel oil nourish the skin while cleaning
- Chemical-free: Zero synthetic ingredients means zero chemical irritants
- Versatile: Use it as face wash, body soap, shaving soap, or even shampoo
How to Use Aleppo Soap
- Wet the soap and your skin with lukewarm water
- Rub the soap between your hands to create a rich lather
- Apply to skin with gentle circular motions
- For extra benefit, let the lather sit for 30-60 seconds
- Rinse thoroughly and moisturize
Pro tip: The outer layer of Aleppo soap is typically green-brown (oxidized). Cut into it and you'll see the original green color inside — this is normal and a sign of authenticity.
Try It Yourself
At Sampson Eco Shop, we carry authentic Aleppo Soaps starting at $8.95-$13.95. Every product we sell meets our strict standards for purity and sustainability.
Shop Aleppo Soaps — from $8.95-$13.95
Full transparency: We sell the products discussed in this article. We write these guides because education is part of our mission — informed customers make better choices.
