Patent Grant
11130932
The present disclosure generally relates to anti-microbial organic pet and body wash soaps, and in particular to environmentally friendly, anti-microbial, organic plant-based compositions for use in a recyclable portable foaming soap dispenser.
The product names used in this document are for identification purposes only. All trademarks and registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Wholly organic liquid human and pet body wash soap compositions are desirable because naturally occurring ingredients are more healthful to the human body when absorbed into the dermis and present no harmful or “toxic residual effect” within or around the bloodstream. Contrarily, non-organic, traditional soaps comprise chemicals that are harmful to both the user and the environment, such as: Triclosan, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS), Diethanolamine (DEA), Parabens, Synthetic Colors, Synthetic Fragrance, Urea, Propylene Glycol, 1,4-Dioxane, Ethyl Alcohol (Ethanol) and Benzalkonium Chloride (BAC).
Triclosan: In 2016, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a rule stating that over-the-counter consumer antiseptic wash products containing many potentially harmful antibacterial active ingredients—including triclosan and triclocarban—can no longer be marketed to consumers. These products include liquid, foam and gel hand soaps, bar soaps, and body washes. Research has shown that triclosan: alters hormone regulation in animals; contributes to the development of antibiotic-resistant germs; and is harmful to the immune system. The compositions of the present invention do not comprise triclosan, triclocarban, or any other non-organic, plant-based ingredient.
Environment: Organically derived ingredients provide not only an effective body washing experience, but also, provide a less toxic avenue for potential environmental hazards. Liquid soap compositions to date use harsh preservatives, such as formaldehyde, urea, parabens and sulfates like cocamidopropyl betaine, which can get into lakes and waterways and cause allergic reactions and derma irritation. Use of these harsh preservatives require drinking water processing facilities to remove them, resulting in more waste elimination work.
Soaps require preservatives to: help prevent microbial growth and rancidity in the soap, maintain its effectiveness, and increase the shelf-life of the soap. In the past, soap compositions have relied upon non-organic, chemical means of extending a soap's shelf-life because harm to the user from exposure to the chemical preservatives was not well known or understood, and because alternative non-chemical preservatives were ineffective or too costly.
For example, organic soaps have a shelf-life of 18 through 24 months, while commercial chemical soaps can be stored for up to 3 years. Additionally, Deb Soap™ and AntiBac FH Pure Foam™ chemical soap lasts up to 30 months, and castor oil-based soaps have a shelf life of approximately one-year time, and sunflower oil-based soaps have a shelf life of 3 to 6 months. When the product expires, the oils go rancid, change in odor and color (e.g. brown), become moldy and also tend to separate.
Pet Wash: Pets also require a body wash that is able to prevent and treat lice, fleas, flies, parasites, ticks, etc. The body wash is also non-allergenic and non-toxic to the pet (e.g. cats and dogs).
What is needed within the soap industry is an organic plant-based liquid or foaming soap for use as a human and pet body wash that does not comprise any non-organic chemical preservatives, but which has strong anti-microbial properties and a shelf-life that is equivalent to, or superior to, chemical soaps; and a wall mounted soap dispenser for use with the composition, wherein the dispenser and its refillable soap cartridge are environmentally friendly, e.g. made entirely from recyclable materials. The body wash should be effective against human and pet skin infections (e.g. prevent acne, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-parasite, etc.) while moisturizing and hydrating the skin and/or fur.
Anti-Microbial Organic Foaming Soap Compositions
Liquid and foaming soap compositions according to the invention can be made wholly organic with a long shelf-life because of a newly-derived combination of organic ingredients processed in certain ways. These organic blends are highly preferable because they contain a synergistic combination of “naturally occurring antibacterial agents” in addition to vitamins and minerals known to protect the skin's surface.
The various embodiments of anti-microbial, foam-able composition of the present disclosure comprise the following anti-microbial active ingredients, all of which are oils certified to USDA Organic Standards: organic shea butter; organic or natural spearmint oil; USDA approved natural lime oil; organic thyme oil; and organic rosemary extract.
As used herein, the term “natural” refers to an ingredient that is approved under the USDA National Organic Program (7 CFR Part 205) that establishes specific provisions for the use of non-organic agricultural ingredients in processed products labeled “organic” or “made with organic (specified ingredients or food group(s)).” Sections 205.105 (e)(f)(g) prohibit excluded methods, ionizing radiation and sewage sludge, as defined in 205.2. In an embodiment, “natural” means it is USDA non-organic certified for not being irradiated or exposed to chemicals of any kind.
In an embodiment of the organic soap composition, the organic shea butter is in a range from about 0.5 weight percent to about 5% weight percent.
In an embodiment of the organic soap composition, the organic or natural spearmint oil is in a range from about 0.50 weight percent to about 5.0 weight percent.
In an embodiment of the organic or natural soap composition, the United States Department of Agriculture (U.S.D.A) approved natural lime oil is in a range from about 0.4 weight % to about 5.0 weight %.
In an embodiment of the organic soap composition, the organic thyme oil is in a range from about 0.04 weight % to about 2.0 weight %.
In an embodiment of the organic soap composition, the organic rosemary extract is in a range from about 0.01 weight % to about 0.13 weight %.
In an embodiment, the composition further comprises a base soap composition of: saponified organic coconut oil; organic olive oil; organic sunflower oil; organic jojoba oil; organic aloe vera; and glycerin. In an embodiment, the composition may further comprise glycerin as a base soap ingredient, wherein the glycerin is a by-product of the manufacturing product from combining the organic essential oils with water and alkali, and then glycerin is added back into the composition.
Scented or Unscented Base Soap Composition: In an embodiment, the present disclosure comprises the base soap composition alone without the anti-microbial active ingredients, with or without at least one organic scented oil.
The compositions disclosed herein do not comprise sulfites, non-organic plant-based chemicals, or synthetic compounds. In an embodiment, the compositions are 100% organic; and another embodiment, the compositions are certified with organic ingredients, wherein all ingredients are organic, with the exception of the natural lime oil.
Formulations: the anti-microbial composition of the present disclosure is stored in a liquid formulation that based upon the type of soap dispenser may be dispensed as a liquid (e.g. pump dispenser) or a foam (foaming dispenser). In smaller quantities, the anti-microbial composition is left on the skin as a foamed or liquid “hand sanitizer” that is absorbed into the skin without leaving a sticky or tacky residue.
Shelf-life: the anti-microbial composition of the present disclosure has a shelf-life of about three years, which is equivalent to non-organic liquid and foaming soaps.
Anti-microbial: the compositions of the present disclosure exhibit anti-microbial properties.
Foaming Soap Dispenser
In an embodiment, the entire dispenser housing, and the refillable soap cartridge are made entirely of recyclable material, such as recyclable plastic material that comprises at least one of: polyethylene terephthalate (PET); high density polyethylene (HDPE); polyvinyl chloride; low density polyethylene (LDPE); polypropylene (PP); polystyrene (PS); and ABS
In an embodiment the dispenser is a fixed dispenser, such as a wall mounted dispenser, or a sink mounted dispenser.
In an embodiment, the dispenser is portable (e.g. a bottle), and a top manually pump activated by pushing downward.
In all embodiments, the soap dispenser comprises markings to indicate that the soap is an environmentally friendly, organic plant-based, such as: a “got green?®” trademark; a Got Green® website address that lists the compositions' anti-microbial active ingredients; and/or one or more green or partially green colored leaves on the front of the dispenser.
Foam Producing Soap Product
In an embodiment, of the present disclosure comprises a foam producing soap product comprising: a) a foam-able organic liquid soap composition comprising the anti-microbial active ingredients of: organic shea butter; USDA approved natural spearmint oil; USDA approved natural lime oil; organic thyme oil; and organic rosemary extract; b) a foam soap dispenser for dispensing the organic liquid soap composition as a premeasured amount of foaming soap, wherein the foam dispenser comprises: a recyclable plastic; a portable bottle with a manual top downward pump and a front label indicating the composition is an organic soap; and c) wherein the soap is able to be effectively used as a pet and/or human body wash to prevent and/or treat infections while moisturizing the hair and skin.
In an embodiment of the foam producing soap product, the foam soap dispenser is a portable manual soap dispenser, and comprises a top downward pushed manually operable pumping means.
In an embodiment of the foam producing soap product, the foam soap dispenser further comprises a liquid soap filled reservoir that is operatively connected to the pumping means for supplying the organic soap composition to the dispenser via a vertically mounted tube extending between the reservoir and a dispenser nozzle connected to a close/open valve.
In an embodiment of the foam producing soap product, the organic soap composition further comprises the base soap composition ingredients of: saponified organic coconut oil; organic olive oil; organic sunflower oil; organic jojoba oil; and organic aloe vera.
In an embodiment of the foam producing soap product, the organic soap composition further comprises glycerin that is produced during the process of making the base soap composition, that is remixed into the composition. In an embodiment of the foam producing soap product, the shelf-life of the organic soap composition is about three years.
In an embodiment of the foam producing soap product, the organic soap composition is able to eradicate about 74.6% through 77.6% of the bacterial strain Staphylococcus aureus after at least one minute of direct contact with the composition.
In an embodiment, the foam producing soap product is useable to clean and disinfect pet toys and bowls.
A detailed description of a preferred embodiment and process is provided herein. It is to be understood, however, that the invention may be embodied in various forms and processed using other methods. Therefore, specific details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but rather as a basis for patent claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to employ the present invention in virtually any appropriately detailed system, structure or manner.
As used herein, the term “essential oil” refers to an essential oil as a product made by distillation with either water or steam or by mechanical processing of citrus rinds or by dry distillation of natural materials. Following the distillation, the essential oil is physically separated from the water phase. For an essential oil to be a true essential oil, it must be isolated by physical means only. The physical methods used are distillation (steam, steam/water and water) or expression (also known as cold pressing, a unique feature for citrus peel oils). There is one other method of oil isolation specific to a very limited number of essential oil plants. This is a maceration/distillation. In the process, the plant material is macerated in warm water to release the enzyme-bound essential oil.
As used herein, the term “by weight” or “wt. %” refers to the amount of the stated composition ingredient as a percentage of the entire composition: base soap ingredients (Table 2), or base soap ingredients plus scented essential oils, or base soap ingredients plus anti-microbial active ingredients (Table 1). For example, if the entire foaming soap composition disclosed herein has by weight 100 grams, then the composition comprises, in an embodiment, organic rosemary extract from 0.01 grams to 0.1 grams.
Wholly organic liquid hand soap compositions according to the invention are the first “organically formulated” hand soaps to be crafted without the use of chemically altered, man-made preservation methods. The natural preservation methods described herein extend the duration of shelf life beyond that of what many inorganic preservatives can achieve. These compositions maintain stability with use the of rosemary organic extract and the process used to incorporate it into the compositions.
In accordance with 7 CFR § 205.301, the soap compositions of the present disclosure are “made with organic”, which contains (by weight, excluding water and salt) at least 70 percent to 94 percent organically produced ingredients. The soap compositions of the present disclosure are also certified to USDA Organic Standards.
As used herein, the term “anti-microbial active” and “active” are used interchangeably herein and refers to the soap composition ingredients that act in an unexpected synergistic manner (e.g. Table 1 ingredients) to render the soap composition able to reduce at least one type of bacterial infection or presence on the user's skin, such as a gram positive bacterial infection.
It is important to note in this context there is a distinction between pure rosemary essential oil and that of rosemary extract as a plant extract. Liquid that is distilled or separated from plant extract is commonly referred to as the “plant essence” and the minimal amount of “volatile liquid” left behind is the essential oil. Rosemary extract specifically is very different from “rosemary essential oil,” as the extract has a very high level of antioxidants when absorbed or ingested. Antioxidants are known to fight “free-radicals”; therefore, when the extract is used as a method of preservation, it prevents the breakdown of natural products such as the wholly organic liquid hand soap compositions described herein. Rosemary oil, on the other hand, is used for a variety of medicinal purposes and does not contain the preservation level of an “extract” (e.g. see List of References infra (1, 2)).
The rosemary extract is added to the blended oils prior to the soap composition being mixed and created. This process results in doubling shelf-life by using the antioxidant properties of the rosemary extract to slow the breakdown of the other natural ingredients in the soap composition.
One preferred liquid hand soap composition according to the invention contains organic thyme oil, spearmint oil, and rosemary extract; and USDA approved natural lime oil; and shea butter.
Thymol wards off gram-positive bacteria on the skin's surface. This particular anti-microbial active oil also aids to create a residual barrier of protection on the hand's surface to prevent the spread of germs and parasitic matter, such as scabies and lice, from one person to another. Thyme essential oil also contains naturally occurring antibacterial properties that help prevent bacteria build-up in the sink drain by coating the metal pipe on the way down. In the future, this aspect will help prevent bacterial C. Duff sewage back-up, which is a current phenomenon occurring in hospital wash sinks.
Spearmint oil, certified to USDA Organic Standards, is used to mask the scent of thymol used in the composition, and provides an energized “uplifting” aroma. Spearmint also has natural antiseptic properties (due to the presence of menthol, myrcene and caryophyllene) that are effective against bacteria (3, 4). Additionally, both thymol and spearmint have been studied scientifically to stimulate the nerves and brain function, which is beneficial for users. A main factorial of this is thymol's ability to have an instant effect on brain activity, which has been revealed by monitoring brain activity via electroencephalograms. The mood encouraging nature of the composition is also being explored (5, 6, 7).
USDA approved natural lime oil is used to create a pleasing “spearmint-lime” scent. This also provides a novel twist on the scent. Just like the previously mentioned organic oils, lime oil also contains antiseptic, antiviral and antibacterial properties. A spearmint-lime scent appeals to both fans of citrus and of mint. Due to the natural “spearmint-lime” scent, which disperses in the air with the foaming dispenser disclosed herein, other air fresheners are not required. Additional organic plant-based scents may be added to the composition. And, the composition may be scented, or unscented.
Shea butter is used as a moisturizer, which helps the skin retain moisture after hand washing, but when utilized minimally as a “leave-on”, helps transport the formula into the deeper layers of the derma and turn the once “wet” formula into a soft, silky feel after several minutes time. Additionally, due to the shea butter's cinnamic acid, it works as an anti-inflammatory and is found to reduce skin inflammation. Thus, the compositions of the present disclosure can be used to relieve the “aches and pains” symptoms of disorders and conditions, such as carpal tunnel syndrome and rheumatoid arthritis, by inducing a natural anti-inflammatory effect. Some previous and soap compositions comprise pharmaceutically-produced non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) that are used as the inorganic means for anti-inflammatory properties listed in the compositional makeup. This is not only dangerous, but due to the fact that a large amount of pharmaceutically produced NSAIDS contain formaldehyde and/or, this raises the risk of increased “premature” illness rates, e.g. nausea, headaches, respiratory problems and cancer (see U.S. Pat. No. 5,635,469 A that issued to TJ Fowler on Jun. 3, 1997).
Glycerin: in additional embodiments of the present disclosure, glycerin, which is a by-product of the manufacturing process using plant oils, is added back-into the final soap composition to produce a milder hand soap with enhanced moisturizing effect. Glycerin is a humectant, meaning that it attracts water. When glycerin is applied to the skin as an optional ingredient of the composition, it seals in moisture that might otherwise escape. Glycerin may also contribute to the anti-microbial activity of the soap composition (10).
Anti-bacterial Active Ingredients: A preferred version of the composition comprises the following combination of anti-microbial active ingredients: organic shea butter; USDA approved as natural spearmint oil; USDA approved as natural lime oil; organic thyme oil; organic rosemary extract; and glycerin. In another embodiment, glycerin is an additional ingredient.
The various compositions of the present disclosure exhibit strong, anti-microbial effects due to the unexpected synergistic effects of combining the ingredients of Table 1, which alone have some anti-microbial properties.
In an embodiment, the organic shea butter is in a range from about 0.5% (by weight) to about 5% (by weight).
In an embodiment, the natural spearmint oil is in a range from about 0.50 wt. % to about 5.0 wt. %. In an embodiment, the spearmint is natural-meaning it is USDA non-organic certified for not being irradiated or exposed to chemicals of any kind, (e.g. in the soil). In another embodiment, the spearmint is organic.
In an embodiment, the USDA approved natural lime oil is in a range from about 0.40 wt. % to about 5.0 wt. %.
In an embodiment, the organic thyme oil is in a range from about 0.04 wt. % to about 2.0 wt. %.
In an embodiment, the organic rosemary extract is in a range from about 0.01 wt. % to about 0.13 wt. %.
Table 1 provides a list of the weight percent range for each anti-microbial active ingredient within one exemplary foaming soap composition that is a preferred embodiment.
Base Soap Ingredients: the remainder of the foaming soap composition of the various embodiments of the present disclosure further comprises other organic oils, such as: saponified organic coconut oil; organic olive oil; organic sunflower oil; organic jojoba oil; and organic aloe vera (see Table 2). In an embodiment, the total of the base soap ingredients comprises at least about one of the following: 55%, or 60%, or 65%, or 70%, or 75%, or 80%, or 85% of the total composition. In another embodiment, the total base soap is about 89% of the total composition.
Due to the anti-microbial properties of the composition of Table 1, it can also be used as a leave on hand sanitizer when dispensed in smaller doses, wherein the composition is absorbed into the skin without leaving a sticky residue on the user's skin.
Unscented Versus Scented Soap
The various soap compositions of the present disclosure comprise the base soap ingredients of Table 2, which is an unscented version of the soap composition.
Scented soap: The soap composition of the present disclosure may further comprise at least one of the following oils, or any combination thereof, to scent the soap: orange essential oil, lemon essential oil, lime essential oil, citrus blend essential oil, kiwi oil, strawberry essential oil, raspberry essential oil, elderberry essential oil, juniper berry essential oil, cranberry essential oil, pomegranate essential oil, vanilla essential oil, lemongrass essential oil, rosemary essential oil, patchouli essential oil, thyme essential oil, spearmint essential oil, peppermint essential oil, wintergreen essential oil, cinnamon bark and leaf essential oil, sage essential oil, basil essential oil, sweet basil essential oil, pine blend essential oil, frankincense essential oil, ginger essential oil, mandarin essential oil, tangerine essential oil, grapefruit essential oil, floral fragrance, lavender essential oil, rose essential oil, gardenia essential oil, geranium essential oil, sweet marjoram oil, nutmeg essential oil, bergamot essential oil, cardamom essential oil, chocolate fragrance oil, benzoin essential oil, and coconut fragrance oil.
Method of Making the Foaming Organic Soap
The organic liquid and/or foaming hand soap compositions according to the various embodiments of the present disclosure are made according to the following exemplary method.
Base Soap: The process begins with pre-mixing the rosemary extract with the non-anti-microbial active oils prior to its addition into the whole soap composition. In an embodiment, the base soap composition of Table 2 is utilized to make the unscented soap (one embodiment), to which at least one scented oil may be added (second embodiment), or to which the naturally occurring anti-bacterial ingredients of Table 1 are added (third embodiment).
For all embodiments, the rosemary extract and the base soap ingredients of Table 2, such as coconut and other plant-based oils (i.e. saponified organic coconut oil; organic olive oil; organic sunflower oil; organic jojoba oil; and organic aloe vera) are pumped into kettles. Then fluids (i.e. water at about 81 wt. %) are combined along with alkali (e.g. potassium hydroxide at about 3.48 wt. %) into the kettles. Following this, the certified base soap ingredients comprising the organic oils of Table 2, water and alkali combine to form liquid soap and glycerin. To create a “milder” soap, the glycerin is added back into the composition. This differs largely from generic, chemically-created liquid hand soap because they do not add the glycerin back into the finalized product during production. Failing to take this extra step results in a harsh hand soap formulation that can be very drying and irritating to skin.
After the cooking process has completed (e.g. duration of heating about 4 to 5 hours up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit), the base soap composition (with glycerin, or with the glycerin removed) is then pumped into tanks and cooled. The anti-microbial active organic oil ingredients (e.g. see Table 1 for exemplary weight percent amounts of each anti-microbial active ingredient) are then added into to the base soap composition, which creates the natural effect of the antiseptic and preserving properties in the hand soap
Formulations and Methods of Use
Formulations: the anti-microbial compositions of the present disclosure are stored in a liquid formulation that based upon the type of soap dispenser may be dispensed as a liquid or a foaming dispenser. In the portable mini-bottle of
The compositions of the present disclosure are primarily used to reduce the amount and proliferation of pathogens: microbes, germs, parasites, viruses, fungi, ticks, bacteria, etc. on the user's hands, although all skin epidermis can also be sterilized.
In an embodiment, the compositions of the present disclosure should not cause user immune response resistance to pathogens, e.g. bacterial, viral, etc.
The compositions of the present disclosure can also be used as an anti-inflammatory and a topical analgesic due to the shea butter's cinnamic acid.
The compositions of the present disclosure can also be used to moisturize and deeply condition dry skin due to the shea butter.
The compositions of the present disclosure can also be used as a room air freshener because the plant oils in the anti-microbial active ingredients eradicate the airborne bacteria.
The compositions of the present disclosure can also be used as a bug repellent, such as to deter mosquitoes and ticks due to the thyme oil (8,9).
The compositions of the present disclosure can be used as a human body wash (e.g. for the shower or bath), and as a pet wash.
Experimental Data Demonstrating Anti-Microbial Activity
The anti-microbial properties of the composition of Table 1 were tested against the bacterial strain Staphylococcus aureus, with the American Type Culture Collection identifier (ATCC 6538).
Experimental Design: a suspension of the test organism Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 6538) was exposed to the test substance of the composition of Table 1 for the specified exposure times. After exposure, an aliquot of the suspension was transferred to neutralizer (D/E Neutralizing Broth) and was assayed for survivors. Appropriate culture purity, neutralizer sterility, test population, and neutralization confirmation controls were performed.
Results: As illustrated in
Per
Staphylococcus aureus
And as illustrated in
Shelf-Life Extended
Normally, organic liquid soaps have a short shelf-life of about one year because of the lack of a preservative. A sunflower oil-based liquid soap has an even shorter shelf-life of about 3-6 months. Chemical liquid hand soaps with artificial preserving agents have a shelf-life of about two years. Yet, the anti-microbial compositions of the present disclosure have a shelf-life of about three years, which is due in part to the unexpected synergistic effect of the combination of the oils of Table 1 for preserving the soap composition, especially the rosemary extract.
The organic rosemary extract is added to the base soap composition of Table 2 prior to the base soap composition being mixed, heated, and cooled. This process results in doubling shelf-life by using the antioxidant properties of the rosemary extract to slow the breakdown of the other natural ingredients in the soap composition.
Foam Producing Soap Product
The present disclosure further comprises a foam producing soap product comprising: a) a foam-able organic liquid soap composition comprising the anti-microbial active ingredients of Table 1: organic shea butter; USDA approved natural spearmint oil; USDA approved natural lime oil; organic thyme oil; and organic rosemary extract; and, b) a foam soap dispenser for dispensing the organic liquid soap composition as a premeasured amount of foaming soap, wherein the foam dispenser comprises: a recyclable plastic; a bottom front tab comprising a green color and a front label indicating the composition is an organic soap. The foam-able organic liquid soap composition further comprises the base soap composition of Table 2.
In another embodiment, the foaming soap composition comprises the base soap composition of Table 2, and with or without the addition of at least one scented oil; and without all of the oils of Table 1.
Cost Effective: The foam producing soap product of
Liquid and Foaming Soap Dispensers
The soap compositions for the present disclosure are housed in a soap dispenser that pumps out the soap in a liquid form, or as a foam, based upon the mechanical components of the dispenser.
The dispensers of the present disclosure are also either automatic, so that the user does not need to touch the dispenser (e.g.
In all embodiments of the present disclosure, the soap composition is housed within a dispenser that comprises markings to indicate that the soap is an environmentally friendly, organic plant-based soap, such as: a “got green?®” trademark 120 (Registration No. 4904158, issued on Feb. 23, 2016), with a green color of pantone shade 2427 C; and a green colored lower push-tab 140-146 on the bottom front of the dispenser. The push-tab in all embodiments is colored green per the dispenser color mark registration of
The front of the soap dispenser may further comprise a leaf-shaped clear or opaque window that displays the level of the soap composition remaining within the dispenser (e.g.
The front of the soap dispenser may further comprise the Got Green® website address 150 that lists, for example, the composition's anti-microbial active ingredients, as well as, the intellectual property protection of the composition. The website may further list the intellectual property protection of the dispenser of
As illustrated in
As illustrated in
As illustrated in
Recyclable Dispenser: And in an embodiment, the entire dispenser, and the refillable or replaceable soap cartridge that it houses, are made entirely of recyclable plastic material, such polyethylene terephthalate (PET); high density polyethylene (HDPE); polyvinyl chloride; low density polyethylene (LDPE); polypropylene (PP); polystyrene (PS); ABS; and polyurethane.
Liquid Versus Foam Soap Dispensers
The soap compositions for the present disclosure are also housed in a soap dispenser that pumps out the soap in a liquid form, or as a foam, based upon the mechanical components of the dispenser. Foaming soap dispensers that mix the liquid soap with a gas, such as air or ozone, before dispensing are well known in the art, such as for air U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,409,050 B1; 8,091,739 B2; 8,113,388 B2; and 8,413,852 B2, to Ophardt et al.; and for ozone see US Patent Application 20130119083 A1 to Ophardt et al.
In an embodiment, as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,409,050 B1 to Ophardt et al., a pump assembly provides for direct replacement of volumes of the organic liquid soap from a reservoir with equal volumes of air preferably at substantially atmospheric pressure. A slide arrangement preferably positively displaces liquid from the soap reservoir and air into the soap reservoir. The pump draws air from the atmosphere into a chamber from which the air either is available for passage to replace liquid from the reservoir, or is pressurized to assist dispensing liquid soap, preferably, admixing with the liquid to provide foaming soap. Gravity separation of air and liquid to be dispensed is used to replace liquid with air in the reservoir and to selectively place air and liquid into communication with passageways for ejection.
In another embodiment, the soap dispenser is an over-the-counter, portable product comprising a collapsible housing made from a recyclable plastic that contains from about 12 to about 56 fluid ounces of the organic soap composition of the present disclosure. A push down pump action handle enables the user to push down to receive a unit of liquid or foaming organic soap with each pump. For a body or pet wash, each pump should release a sufficient amount of the composition of the present invention to cover a reasonable area of a pet or human body part so that the user does not need to repeatedly pump out the composition to cover the entire body.
In an embodiment, as illustrated in
The dispenser further comprises a recyclable dispenser refill container holding the soap composition of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, the refill container is shaped to be about: 8.5 inches in height, 5.5 inches in width, and 3 inches in depth, and holds about 1000 mL of the soap composition, e.g. as per Table 1.
In another embodiment, the soap dispenser comprises a rigid housing that is affixed to, or within the sink, and adjacent to the faucet (e.g. see U.S. Pat. No. 8,991,657 to Ciavarella et al., and US Patent Application 20170027390 A1 to Maercovich, wherein the entire contents of both are incorporated by reference in its entirety).
Manual Soap Dispensers
Manual Activated Dispensers are well known in the art, and for use in the present disclosure generally comprise internal components and mechanisms comprising: a manually top operable pumping means; and a liquid soap filled reservoir that is operatively connected to the pumping means for supplying soap to be dispensed with air to make a foaming soap. In an embodiment, the dispenser further comprises a vertically mounted tube extending between the reservoir and a dispenser nozzle with a close/open valve to let air enter the pump.
Exemplary manual activated dispensers for use with the bottle housings of
Body Wash for Humans
The compositions of the present invention can be used as a human body wash, such as in a shower, to clean, moisturize and hydrate a user's entire surface skin on their body. Other benefits for using the compositions disclosed herein comprise one or more of the following. The composition is: anti-acne on the face and body to prevent and treat acne by reducing the bacteria on the skin that causes it (11); and, anti-aging, primarily due to the thymol & rosemary that helps to preserve the skin and ward off pre-mature aging. When the composition of the present invention is used as a leave-on sanitizer or conditioner, it reduces the appearance of fine lines on the user's skin surface (12). When used as body wash or bubble bath, also prevents mold from growing in the tub and drain.
The composition is also good for preventing facial hair growth in woman due to the spearmint oil that has been proven to reduce growth of unwanted facial hair caused by elevated hormone levels (13); and it is good for cellular healing in pre-cancerous or skin cancer cells (14).
The composition also removes and helps to heal eczema and other skin afflictions from the surface of the skin. It is also highly moisturizing body wash by preventing and washing away bacterial build-up on the skin's surface before and after workouts; and the shea butter and other base ingredients are used as emollients, boosting the skin's hydration and also contains anti-inflammatory properties.
The composition also helps to remove and prevent parasitic infection with the composition's oil blend. And it helps to prevent and treat tinea (e.g. ringworm, athlete's foot and jock itch) on the body skin surface by using an antimicrobial ingredients that kill or slow the spread of microorganisms which include bacteria, viruses, protozoan and fungi such as mold and mildew (15, 16, 17). And it has been shown to prevent athlete's foot in an experiment in which after several days of applying as a “leave-on” wash and after cleaning the infected area, there was almost a 100% improvement in the infection. It is also effective for treating skin rashes and calming all inflammatory skin conditions (18).
It has also been tested at the Lymphedema Alliance of New York for being used as a leave-on product before a patient that is wrapped. Composition was shown to reduce inflammation, swelling, and bacteria from the moisture, etc.
It can also be used as a bubble bath or soak for many holistic purposes to calm the body and mind. Thymol reduces oxidative stress.
In the present invention, the hand soap is in a portable dispenser of about 8 to about 12 fluid ounces, per
Pet Wash:
The compositions of the present invention can also be used as a pet wash, such as bath to clean the pet's fur, especially when the pet is a mammal. The composition can also be used to wash pet toys and food dishes to remove built-on residue and reduce bacteria on the object's surfaces. Other benefits for using the compositions disclosed herein as a pet wash (e.g. dogs and cats) comprise one or more of the following: to soften the pet's fur coat, while keeping it very healthy (22); is chemical free, therefore reducing the pet's allergies, this then reduces the amount of pet hair that is shed (19); prevents tick and fleas and can be used as a wash for flea baths. A smaller amount can be left on the pet's fur coat as a non-toxic bug repellent (20). The wash can also help prevent parasitic skin afflictions. Tiny parasitic mites can burrow into the pet's skin. The composition helps to prevent this, as the odor of essential oils acts as a repellant to many bugs.
The composition as a pet wash is able to wash away impurities on the surface of the coat, while also reducing bacteria, and treating dry skin, impetigo, dermatitis, folliculitis and dandruff (21).
The composition can work in aromatherapy. The essential oils in the composition are therapeutic and healing for the animal by reducing the stress levels in animals, especially those with PTSD. The composition's thymol has powerful, proven, anti-anxiety effects and is able to soothe and calm the pet, while providing anti-bacterial and anti-itch properties (23).
The composition is non-toxic to animals. Flea control chemicals can build up in a pet's system and cause health problems. Flea sprays and dips that contain “all natural Pyrethrin” can be toxic to some pets, and Pyrethroids, synthetic derivatives of pyrethrins, expose your pet to more chemicals (24). The compositions of the present invention do not contain pyrethrin or other toxic synthetic chemicals.
As used herein, “substantially” refers to possible relatively small deviations (if any) of the stated shape. Other features that are considered as characteristic for the various embodiments are set forth in the appended claims. As used herein, the term “about” refers to The term “about” as used herein refers to a value within 10% of the underlying parameter (i.e., plus or minus 5%), and use of the term “about” at the beginning of a string of values modifies each of the values (i.e., “about 1, 2 and 3” refers to about 1, about 2 and about 3). Further, when a listing of values is described herein (e.g., about 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 85% or 86%) the listing includes all intermediate and fractional values thereof (e.g., 54%, 85.4%). Thus, it should be understood that although the present technology has been specifically disclosed by representative embodiments and optional features, modification and variation of the concepts herein disclosed may be resorted to by those skilled in the art, and such modifications and variations are considered within the scope of this technology.
The transitional term “comprising”, which is synonymous with “including,” “containing,” or “characterized by,” is inclusive or open-ended and does not exclude additional, unrecited elements or method steps. The transitional phrase “consisting of” excludes any element, step, or ingredient not specified in the claim. The transitional phrase “consisting essentially of” limits the scope of a claim to the specified materials or steps “and those that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristic(s)” of the claimed invention.
Or, the technology illustratively described herein suitably may be practiced in the absence of any element(s) not specifically disclosed herein. Thus, for example, in each instance herein any of the terms “comprising,” “consisting essentially of,” and “consisting or” may be replaced with either of the other two terms. The terms and expressions which have been employed are used as terms of description and not of limitation, and use of such terms and expressions do not exclude any equivalents of the features shown and described or portions thereof, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the technology claimed.
Although the various embodiments are illustrated and described herein as embodied in organic soap compositions and dispensers, it is nevertheless not intended to be limited to the details shown, since various modifications and structural changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit of the invention and within the scope and range of equivalents of the claims.
It is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes disclosed is an illustration of exemplary approaches. Based upon design preferences, it is understood that the specific order or hierarchy of steps in the processes may be rearranged. Some of the steps may be performed simultaneously. The accompanying method claims present elements of the various steps in a sample order and are not meant to be limited to the specific order or hierarchy presented.
A phrase such as “an aspect” does not imply that such aspect is essential to the subject technology or that such aspect applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an aspect may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. An aspect may provide one or more examples of the disclosure. A phrase such as an “aspect” may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa. A phrase such as an “embodiment” does not imply that such embodiment is essential to the subject technology or that such embodiment applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to an embodiment may apply to all embodiments, or one or more embodiments. An embodiment may provide one or more examples of the disclosure. A phrase such an “embodiment” may refer to one or more embodiments and vice versa. A phrase such as a “configuration” does not imply that such configuration is essential to the subject technology or that such configuration applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to a configuration may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A configuration may provide one or more examples of the disclosure. A phrase such as a “configuration” may refer to one or more configurations and vice versa.
Furthermore, to the extent that the term “include,” “have,” or the like is used in the description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprise” as “comprise” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.
The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments.
A reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically stated, but rather “one or more.” The term “some” refers to one or more. Underlined and/or italicized headings and subheadings are used for convenience only, do not limit the subject technology, and are not referred to in connection with the interpretation of the description of the subject technology. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various configurations described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to be encompassed by the subject technology.
All publications and patent applications cited in this specification are herein incorporated by reference as if each individual publication or patent application were specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Although the foregoing invention has been described in some detail by way of illustration and example for purposes of clarity of understanding, it will be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in light of the teachings of this invention that certain changes and modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit or scope of the scope of the appended claims.
The present application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Pat. No. 10,765,620 that issued on Sep. 8, 2020, which claim priority to U.S. Provisional Ser. No. 62/571,310, filed Oct. 12, 2017 by E. Fedyna, the entire contents of both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in the entirety.
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| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20200407666 A1 | Dec 2020 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62571310 | Oct 2017 | US |
| Number | Date | Country | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parent | 15903074 | Feb 2018 | US |
| Child | 17013792 | US |
