Borax (Na2B4O7.10H2O) is a mineral, a boron compound, a salt of boric acid and as one of the 109 elements that make up the planet, it's everywhere. First discovered in the 8th century BC, it only became popular for common use much later, in the early 19th century. Today borax has many varied uses, including (but certainly not limited to) fire retardant, anti-fungal soak, the making of flubber, in blacksmithery forge-welding, as a neutron absorber, and, of course, soap. We use Borax in both our Shop Soap and Ranch Hand bars! #borax #naturalingredients #organicchemistry #guystuff #handmademanmade #useranchhand #useshopsoap #usesoap #madeincalifornia (at B&C Mfg Workshop)