Homemade Deodorant

This isn’t the first time I’ve made my own deodorant…

The first time was a couple of years ago. I was so excited and whipped up a big batch and gave it a whirl. Within less than a week, it was a complete failure! Apparently I am allergic to arrowroot powder. I was an itchy, rashy, sweaty girl… I had to use nothing for a week just to recuperate.

Thankfully, a friend gave me her arrowroot-free recipe! I made a few modifications and found one that works. No rash and no stink either! Oh, and no toxic ingredients!

This recipe filled my deodorant container twice, but I only have one. So I molded the rest in a little food container and just melt it in a double-boiler when I’m out. Works pretty slick!

March 2013 update- I have once again perfected my recipe and my updating it to my new favorite formula. Not only does it glide on better, it is more invisible, and I’m pretty sure it aided in the speedy healing of the nasty cut I gave myself while shaving… Yeah, don’t ask. ;o)

You don’t have to use the chamomile olive oil (it is quite a bit more work) but I really think it makes a difference on the soothing and healing part! Chamomile is also a disinfectant! Bonus!!!

Here is my recipe. It made enough for two deodorant containers. Unfortunately I only had one…

1/4 cup coconut oil minus 1- 1 1/2 Tablespoons

1 – 1 1/2 Tablespoons of shea butter

2  Tablespoons beeswax pellets

1 Tablespoon olive oil with chamomile (see note below)

1/4 cup baking soda

scant 1/4 cup cornstarch (it’s ok if you don’t completely fill the measuring cup)

20 drops tea tree oil

20 drops of essential oil of your choice, for scent (optional) *I don’t add scent

*Chamomile olive oil: heat about 1/8 cup of olive oil on low heat for about 10-15 minutes (don’t let it boil). Add 1/2 teaspoon of dried chamomile flowers and stir for about 10 minutes more. Strain out flowers through a coffee filter or cheesecloth. Save the remainder of the olive oil for a lovely sugar scrub!

Melt all the oils and beeswax together in double boiler. Stir in cornstarch and baking soda. Mix in essential oils.

Quickly pour into your mold or deodorant container. *If your container has a hole in the bottom, wad up a piece of plastic wrap and shove it down to plug up the holes before pouring in the deodorant.

Place directly into the fridge to set up. Once set you can store in your bathroom. I suppose if it gets too soft, you can pop it back in the fridge. But I don’t think it will be a problem.