The truth from the market, for the peopleHow much does laurel soap cost in Syria?
According to sellers in the episode, a single bar cost from about $0.7 (100 new Syrian pounds) up to about $5.6 (800 pounds) in Damascus in November 2026. By the kilo, prices started at about $3.5 (500 pounds), and at about $7 (1,000 pounds) for soap with a standard share of laurel oil. The main reason for the gap is how much laurel oil is in the bar.
How do you tell real laurel soap from a fake?
Cut or break the bar. Real laurel soap is green inside, even when the outside has turned brown or yellow with age. Sellers say the final test is using it, but two checks work in the shop: the green core, and a strong laurel smell.
"Real or fake, you only know by using it. But break the bar: inside it has to be green."A seller in the episode
What is Aleppo soap made of?
Two oils: olive oil and laurel (bay) oil. One seller said some makers add oud or ambergris for scent, but the base stays the two oils.
Why is it linked to Aleppo?
Laurel soap making is an old craft of the city of Aleppo, which is why it is called "Aleppo soap". Sellers link this to the laurel trees that grow around Aleppo, so the raw material was close to the makers.
What does the stamp on the bar mean?
The stamp shows the maker's name and the grade, meaning the share of laurel oil. A higher grade means more laurel oil and a higher price, so read the stamp before you compare prices.