Have you ever tried a natural deodorant?
I became concerned about using antiperspirants (which reduce or block perspiration), after several allergic bouts. So I began testing various recipes.
I settled on this simple deodorant recipe:
1/4 cup plus 1 tablespoon Coconut Oil (this is the solid, 76 degree coconut oil, not the fractionated liquid)
Baking Soda 1/4 cup (Bicarbonate Soda)
1/4 cup Arrowroot Powder or Cornstarch
10 – 11 drops of essential oils
The essential oils that I chose were based on their antiseptic, skin-soothing, and cooling properties: 3 drops Patchouli, 3 drops Lavender, 3 drops Ylang Ylang, and 2 drops Peppermint.
I purchased a deodorant applicator from a supply distributor, but to save money, you can carefully wash an empty deodorant applicator, re-use it for this recipe. Before you do so, I warn you, you may be surprised by the sticky mess that ensues, even when washing the containers using a lot of hot water and soap detergent.
Mixing Procedure:
Gently heat the coconut oil on the stove top or in the microwave (on a low setting), just until melted.
Add the baking soda, arrowroot powder, mix by hand (you can use a fork or a whisk). Add in the essential oils, mix again. Stir until all of the ingredients are dissolved.
Pour the mixture into a deodorant applicator.
Note: you can add a tiny amount, approximately 1/4 teaspoon, of bees-wax to firm up the deodorant.
Do not attempt to pour the mixture into the deodorant container if it is too hot. Burns can occur, and the applicator can be destroyed.
Once poured, allow the mixture to sit for several hours to harden.
That is it.
You will not get the exact same results as you would with a strong commerically-made antiperspirant, but I can say the natural deodorant has not caused any allergic problems for me (always keep your own allergies and medical conditions in mind when selecting these types of products and ingredients). The formula has worked well for the purposes intended.
Note, if you do not wish to use a deodorant applicator or container, you can pour the warm deodorant mixture into a jar with a wide mouth. Allow to cool for a few hours. To use, simply dip your fingertip into the deodorant to remove a pea sized amount and apply it to your underarm area (the deodorant softens via skin temperature).
There, you have it, worry free deodorant, and very easy to make.
Annie’s Goat Hill Handcrafted Soaps – Smell and Feel the Goodness
Annies Goat Hill Handcrafted Soaps 