Homemade Deodorant: A Natural Way to Stay Fresh!

I began my transition to “homemade life” several years back, but it’s taken me quite awhile to attempt the deodorant. I switched to all natural deodorant years ago, but was never satisfied. I tried lots of brands (Toms, Jasons, Alba, etc) in lots of varieties and scents, but bottom line was that at the end of the day I was still stinky. So last spring I decided it was time. I Googled and Pinned several different recipes and ended up using a mismatch of a few. Now before you go thinking I’m crazy, I have to tell you that I started using this in April of this year, and it’s now September…that means I used it through the Arizona summer which is not for the weary of heart (or stinkiest of armpits). Even my husband has made the switch!

Most of the recipes call for using cornstarch or a mix of cornstarch and arrowroot. I just use the arrowroot because it’s suppose to be gentler on the skin, and since corn is one of the leading foods that is often genetically modified I feel safer putting the arrowroot directly on my skin versus the cornstarch. Coconut oil has lots of benefits, but an important one in regards to deodorant is it’s antibacterial properties. I use peppermint oil because we like the smell, and I use the essential oil in this recipe merely for scent so it’s completely optional. We have been storing this deodorant in a small jar with a screw on lid because the coconut oil becomes liquid in warmer weather (ie. most of the year in Arizona) and we apply it like it’s a lotion. I have heard that you can pour it in an old deodorant container or you can order these to fill. If you choose this latter route, you’ll want to store it in the fridge so that it doesn’t leak out.

What You Need:

• 1/4 c. Arrowroot (found in the baking aisle at any health food store)
• 1/4 c. Baking Soda
• 4-6 Tb Coconut Oil
• 3-6 drops Essential Oil (optional)
• Container to store deodorant in

*Simply mix all ingredients together and scoop into the container of your choice. Apply as needed. This will fill a small container that will last 3-4 weeks.

Would love to know if you have tried other deodorant recipes.

Or if you try this one, I’d love to know what you think.I don’t think you’ll be disappointed!