Natural Deodorant

I have been spending time finding a good natural deodorant recipe. There are many out on the internet but I feel like the simpler, the better.

Most of the recipes call for baking soda, cornstarch and coconut oil. This basic recipe did its job very well, however, by that afternoon I felt like I had razor burn. I washed that night and the next morning and tried it again. As the pain and the burn got worse I looked at my new recipe.

After some research, I discovered that many women seem to have this same reaction to baking soda. OK, so there went that idea. Instead of starting my search over again I decided to try to revamp the recipe with items that I have on hand, and with the knowledge of what they do.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil can be used in so many products including hair, and skin. It can also be used for stress relief, cholesterol maintenance, weight loss, immune system boost, digestion and so much more. In the deodorant, coconut oil works as a moisturizer. 

Arrowroot Powder

Arrowroot Powder can be used for cooking and for skin care. It help to thicken the deodorant, plus it has the added benefit of helping to eliminate toxins. 

Cornstarch

This is also another form of thickener for this recipe.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE)

Diatomaceous Earth can be used in so many areas of the house. DE can be used in the garden, to take care of pests, like fleas and in homemade toothpaste and deodorant. This is an item that is almost entirely made up of silica, a trace element throughout the body. It also helps to eliminate toxins from the body as it moisturizes this sensitive area. It is important to get food grade DE

Here’s where things may really get a bit different than what you typically see in homemade deodorant recipes. 

The Recipe - Sensitive Skin Deodorant

5-6 T. Coconut Oil

1/8 c. arrowroot powder

1/8 c. cornstarch

1/4 c. Diatomaceous Earth

5 drops of Vitamin E is also helpful 

Several drops of essential oil for fragrance (opt.)

Mix arrowroot powder, cornstarch and DE in a jar, then slowly add the coconut oil until it is the desired consistency and the powders are pretty much dissolved. Add the vitamin E and the essential oil. 

To use this, scoop out a fingertip amount and then rub this between the fingers to help melt and to help make it smooth. Apply to the underarms. 

Enjoy!

https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/oils/health-benefits-of-coconut-oil.html

http://www.scratchmommy.com/effective-easy-homemade-deodorant/

Arrowroot

Arrowroot

Arrowroot is used as a thickener is some cooking recipes and in natural cosmetics.

It is harvested from a number of plants including the roots, tubers, or rhizomes of Maranta arundinacea

, or 

Zamia pumila.

 

To create a powder from these tubers, they must be washed first, then the paper-like skin needs to be removed. After removing the skin wash the root again and then let it drain thoroughly. Next the roots are placed in a mortar and mashed into a pulp. The milky liquid that is obtained needs to be passed through a coarse cloth and then the pure starch should be allowed to settle at the bottom. Place this in the sun to dry. When it is finished a light, white powder is the product which is odorless when it is dry. If moist it has a peculiar odor. 

If you don't want to make the powder, it can be purchased at Amazon.

Deodorant

The powder is great when made into a deodorant. The recipe is very simple

combine 1/4 c. baking soda; 1/4 c. arrowroot powder; 5 T. coconut oil until it makes a firm texture, similar to that bought in a store. If desired, a few drops of essential oil can be added, depending on the desired results, I have added up to 10 drops of lavender oil to create a calming scent. When finished the mixture can be transferred to a lidded container and then store in a fridge. This should last a couple of months. 

Foundation

I also enjoy using arrowroot in a homemade foundation for my makeup. Many days this is all that I put on my face. The shade can be varied by changing the amounts of some of the ingredients. 

For example for lighter skin:

1 Tablespoon arrowroot powder should be slowly added to up 4 tablespoons cocoa powder, 1/4 t. nutmeg, 1/4 t. ginger until it is the desired tone.

After playing around with this recipe I have also added about 10 drops of vitamin E.

If you have a darker complexion begin with less arrowroot powder. 

I have also seen, but have not tried, recipes that use bentonite clay and essential oils. I don't know the amounts or how this works out, but if you try it and like it, let me know the amounts and if you like it. 

I also prefer a powder foundation, but have heard that by adding a drop or two of olive, jojoba or sweet almond oil, you can have the creamy foundation you are looking for. Maybe I will become brave enough to try this some time. If I do I will let you know how it works. 

If you have any other ways that you enjoy using arrowroot, please let me know.

Why Natural???

I was diagnosed with arthritis when I turned 40. After this it seemed like I started falling apart.....Two knee replacements, two shoulder replacements, neck surgery, severe arthritis in my hands and feet, obesity, depression, and high blood pressure.

I decided to try to take a gradual natural approach to dealing with each of these. In addition to looking for natural ways to help my body heal, I am also looking into going natural with cosmetics, natural shampoos, deodorants, etc and natural cleaners.

I invite all to follow my trek as I try to go natural and as I explore the uses that can be made of different items.

Welcome all!!!!!