Happy Monday y’all! OK, so most of you know the dangerous effects of regular antiperspirants. If not, do a quick Google search and you will be bombarded with information. Some folks claim that the aluminum is harmless in antiperspirants, but it’s definitely not something I care to mess around with. Also, sweating is a natural way our body detoxes… Trying to stop that seems unnatural to say the least!
So for all of my Floridian friends, now that it’s finally cooled off here in The Sunshine State, I thought I would post my deodorant recipe. There are loads of recipes online but I like to stick to the simplest ones (that work). Now remember, this is a deodorant recipe–not an antiperspirant–but over time I think you will find that you will sweat less once your body adjusts.
Note: This is not for Gerson persons.
Ingredients:
1/4 cup organic coconut oil (I use Artisana or Nutiva–make sure it’s organic and cold-pressed)
1/4 cup arrowroot powder (I use Bob’s Red Mill–use this instead of cornstarch since most cornstarch is GMO)
1/8-1/4 cup baking soda (I recommend Bob’s Red Mill)
Optional: Essential oils (I enjoy using Peppermint (sparingly) and lavender. Tea tree is also a great anti-bacterial/anti-fungal choice if you like the scent. There are several great ones to choose from depending on what your nose prefers.)
How To Make:
Mix all of the ingredients together in a glass or stainless steel bowl. Be patient! You may feel like you need to add more liquid but you don’t. Just stir until it is all mixed together. Voila! It doesn’t get much easier than that. Keep in mind, that the coconut oil changes consistency depending on the temperature outside (It starts to melt at 76 degrees.) However, I’ve found that it doesn’t really matter if the coconut oil is a paste-like consistency or liquidy. It tends to mix better if it is melted or at least a bit soft. Be sure to put it in a small, shallow glass jar with a tight lid (another great use for a Ball Jar) or you can pour it into a new deodorant container (or better yet, reuse an old one).
Once you’ve finished mixing, if your final product is more liquid-like in texture, then the deodorant mixture may need to sit for a bit before using it. I tried putting mine in the refrigerator but it made it too hard. It was perfect when just left on the counter. After a few hours, if the final product is too hard, then add a bit more coconut oil. If is it too runny, then add a bit more arrowroot powder.
Application:
Take a pea-size amount or a couple of strokes (depending on your container) and apply to your armpits. Easy peasy! Wait a couple of minutes before putting on your shirt to avoid any white marks.
I do want to caution you that baking soda can cause some irritation over time if you have very sensitive skin. That is why I mentioned adding a little less (or you could even try leaving it out all together). Most people don’t have a problem, but if you do, then you may want to tweak the ratio. Also, consider leaving out the essential oils if you are experiencing any sensitivity or burning. Also, wait a few hours before applying if you’ve just shaved the ‘ol pits.
So there you have it. This is so inexpensive and the whole fam can use it. So try having a deodorant making party and leave a comment below letting us know how it goes!
Blissfully Yours,
Heather*
