Washing sponge - Fina Dalmata

Mediterranean Sea, Greece. About 100mm - 120mm in size. Sold by the piece.

Sponge sponge (Spongia officinalis) is a sponge that belongs to the horn sponges (Demospongiae) and is found mainly in the Mediterranean. The sponge has been used as a washing tool since ancient times. Aristotle mentioned its use as early as 350 BC. The history of the sponge goes back to ancient Greece, from where its use spread to almost all of Europe in the Middle Ages. Sea sponges are a rapidly renewable natural resource that is collected from the sea by diving. Research has shown that responsible and reasonable thinning of sponges actually promotes the well-being and growth of sponge colonies. However, most of the washing sponges sold are ethically farmed. Sponges prevent the growth of bacteria and mold, are long-lasting, high-quality and durable.

Symbol meaning

The sponge symbolizes purification, rebirth, holiness and a new beginning. For the Cherokees, the indigenous people of the United States, sponges represented spiritual purification and purity, while the Hopi believed in their ability to absorb negative energy. The Navajo saw the sponge above all as a symbol of a new beginning, as natural sponges were used to wash babies in ceremonies related to the naming ceremony. In the conquests of Central and East Asia, sponges have also symbolized rebirth and regeneration. In the same way that a sponge can absorb large amounts of water, a person can absorb new experiences and lessons.

Ritual use

Sponges have been used throughout history in ceremonial purification rituals. The sponge can be used for ritual washing of the face or the whole body, cleaning the altar or space, pouring holy water over objects or on the altar to symbolize your goals and aspirations. In addition to acting as a washing tool, sponges have been used for thousands of years as padding in the helmets of Roman soldiers, as an absorbent material in surgical operations and surgeries, as a medicine in the treatment of digestive problems, and as an early contraceptive, the so-called as a "contraceptive mushroom".

How to use a sponge

Squeeze the mushroom lightly under warm water. At first, the sponge may feel a bit stiff and hard. However, it softens with use. Rinse the sponge after each use by gently squeezing, do not twist. Store in an airy place. Clean the sponge about once a month in a bowl of warm water with a tablespoon of baking soda. Rinse and let dry completely.

Note! Washing sponges are natural products, j so each of them is its own unique individual. Because of this, colors, shapes and brightness may vary. Trust that the songs selected by intuition for you resonate best with your personal purpose. The sponges we sell are ethically and ecologically grown sponges.