Everyone knows that eating fresh fruits and herbs can enhance both health and beauty, but you may be surprised to learn that they also make excellent ingredients for beauty products.

Handmade soap is one of the nicest gifts you can give yourself or a loved one, and with Florida's rich agricultural bounty, there are almost always fresh ingredients at hand.

Melt-and-pour soap is fast and easy to make, if you have fruit or herbs that are nearing their expiration date.

Here are some of the most common local fruits and herbs, along with their additive health and beauty benefits:

• Citrus peels or oils give a sweet aroma.
• Blueberries are packed with antioxidants that are good for the skin
• Strawberries aid in exfoliation
• Raspberries are vitamin rich and make a good astringent
• Lemon is naturally antiseptic and works well as a kitchen soap
• Grapefruit helps to induce positive feelings, contains antioxidants and makes a good facial toner as well.
• Thyme oil is soothing to the skin and muscles. (Note: When making soap with thyme use the whole leaf.)
• Basil provides a great aroma. Be sure to steep it for a little while then add the oils or whole leaves to your soap base. Only use the steeped oil for perfume or aromatherapy.
• Mint helps to relieve itching. You can use the whole leaf when making soap.
• Sage can be pureed and has a calming effect.