Arghand: Pretty Soaps, Beautiful People

Terri Bly — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 19:19:19 +0000

As I have mentioned before, when I find a brand or product that is not only green but also helps women and communities thrive, I feel like I have struck gold. After all, we might like to think that chemicals are separate from greed, war, crime, poverty, and all of the other evils in the world. But it’s all connected, and when I can offer my customers a way to help people and the planet, well, to me, that is the truest definition of Eco-Friendly. So here is my latest find: Arghand Soaps, made in Afghanistan by a co-op of farmers working with former NPR journalist Sarah Chayes. In 1995, after going to southern Afghanistan to report on the war, Chayes decided to remain in the country to help the people rebuild their community. She knew that the land was good for more than growing opium, and that Afghanistan would never free itself from instability unless it could find a new export. So she began working with a handful of brave men and women, taking advantage of the growing demand for natural products by growing almonds, apricots, pomegranates, and the precious blossoms of Rosa damascena, and turning them into gorgeous soaps and luxurious body oils. Perservering despite constant danger of being attacked (Afghans are assissinated regularly for trying to rebuild the nation through efforts such as these, and women are particularly at risk), as well as unreliable electricity and scarce resources, they have made tremendous progress. Wanna see the fruits of their labor (pun totally intended)? :

Green Options » Arghand

Arghand: Pretty Soaps, Beautiful People