Soap nuts are a wonderful eco-friendly option for laundry detergent! Soap nuts contain saponin, a natural detergent that has been used in India for centuries. The soap nut shell absorbs water and releases the saponins which circulate as a natural surfactant in the wash water, freeing dirt, grime, and oils from clothing. This 4 oz bag will wash approximately 77 loads of laundry which is 11 cents a load. It can be ground to a powder as well and mixed with water to be used as a natural cleanser.