The Girl Who Eats Soaps And Detergents

A rare medical condition has left Tempestt Henderson, from Florida, eating up to five bars of soap a week – and washing powder too. ‘I always knew I loved the smell of washing detergent,’ she explained.

I remember the brand my Mum always used to use – I remember the smell vividly, it was the smell of her cardigan when she hugged me, and the smell of my bed sheets as a child.

‘I used to love smelling the powder, but when life got so stressful I found only eating the soap would help. ‘It is an addiction, I can’t stop, and I have sought the help of a doctor who specialises in addiction. The doctor told me I must empty my house of all washing detergent and soap, anything that triggers my addiction.’