Originally published March 17 2010
Make Natural, Harmless Deodorants with Essential Oils
by Fleur Hupston
(NaturalNews) Using deodorants and antiperspirants are considered by many to be essential in order to prevent body odor. Finding a good deodorant that does not contain aluminum oxide, aluminum compounds, synthetic fragrances and stabilizers makes for a tough search. Brands advertised as organic, all natural or herbal often contain the same chemicals, either with lesser quantities or with certain additives removed but others added. Alternative, natural deodorants can be home-made, are cost effective and very simple to make. Best of all, they are not damaging to health.
Natural Alternatives to Chemical Laden Deodorants
- By mixing corn starch and baking soda with a few drops of essential oil, an effective and natural dry deodorant can be created.
- A wet deodorant can be created by mixing witch hazel and glycerin combined with essential oil of choice.
- Blending pure essential oils with a base oil such as olive oil or jojoba oil or blending a few drops of essential oil to use directly on the skin can make a delightfully scented, natural deodorant.
- Crystals or salt rocks that leave an almost unnoticeable residue when applied can take care of underarm odor. Salt rock crystal deodorants are safe, even for people with allergies and skin sensitivity, and they do not leave behind any noticeable residue on skin or clothing. Though there are several brands available, the only thing to really watch for is that a pure salt crystal is chosen and does not have additives or artificial fragrances added.
Essential Oil Blends - What to Consider
For body odor, use essential oils that will limit the bacterial growth that causes odor. Be careful of oils that may irritate the skin, however, especially the sensitive skin under the arms. Try lavender, peppermint, eucalyptus and patchouli, cinnamon and clove essential oils.
Be sure to use very good quality essential oil, since some oils are poorly processed or contain additives that may irritate the skin. Look for organically sourced oil, pressed at low temperatures and safe to use topically.
Recipe for Deodorant Powder Using Essential Oils
Deodorant powder
1/4 cup cornstarch
1/3 cup bicarbonate of soda
3/4 teaspoon pulverized lavender flowers
15 drops pure lavender essential oil
Mix lavender oil with the pulverized lavender flowers
Mix with the other ingredients and allow it to sit in an airtight glass container away from any light for a day or two.
To use, lightly dust the underarms using a shaving brush or blush brush and/or apply to any other area of your body you wish to feel fresh.
Recipe for Natural Spray Deodorant Using Tea Tree Oil
Pour 2 ounces of clean water
4 drops of tea tree essential oil
Mix together, shake up and spray whenever necessary for a natural deodorant that can even double up as a mosquito repellent.
Sources:
http://ecobites.com/eco-news-articles/holist...
http://www.desertessence.com/skin-care/bath-...
http://www.natural-homeremedies.org/homemade...
About the author
Fleur Hupston is a professional freelance writer. She is passionate about natural, healthy living and is currently studying to be a naturopath. She divides her time between writing for Natural News and various other sites, home schooling her children and studying part time.
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