Republished from March 21, 2008. Updated to include FAQ’s, photo, and video tutorial.
Did you know that nearly all commercial deodorants contain aluminum salts, usually aluminum chlorohydrate? Manufacturers like aluminum because it effectively suppresses perspiration but the metal has a dark side once it makes its way into our body. Aluminum toxicity It has been linked to cancer, Alzheimer’s Disease, and other health issues. It is especially important for women to take thought to the harmful aluminum materials in deodorant as it has been linked to breast cancer, being that the breast tissue extends up into the armpits.
Most commercial deodorants also contain parabens, which act as preservatives and stabilizers, but which like aluminum can be absorbed into the skin. Parabens mimic estrogen, and though the amounts we absorb on a daily basis might be small, over time, the accumulation can be significant.
Did you know you can make your own wonderful effective deodorant with just a few completely natural ingredients? This recipe is awesome! It’s even edible! It is frugal and very effective! Aaron & I have been using it for over two years now, and it has worked wonders. It smells wonderful, but very faint. For years I tried every natural alternative on the market without much success. It has been successfully tried by hundreds of readers! Coconut oil is an all natural oil that has wonderful anti-bacterial and immune boosting qualities. It can effectively nourish and moisturize the skin. This recipe is also very frugal, costing less than a dollar per batch.
Ingredients:
6-8 Tbsp Coconut oil (solid state)
1/4 cup baking soda
1/4 cup arrowroot powder or cornstarch (arrowroot is preferred)
Directions:
- Combine equal portions of baking soda & arrowroot powder.
- Slowly add coconut oil and work it in with a spoon or hand blender until it maintains a firm but pliable texture. It should be about the same texture as commercial deodorant, solid but able to be applied easily. If it is too wet, add further arrowroot powder/cornstarch to thicken.
- You can either scoop this recipe into your old deodorant dispensers or place in a small container with lid and apply with fingers with each use. Makes about 1 cup. This recipe lasts about 3 months for two people with regular daily use.
For a picture tutorial placing this recipe in an old deodorant container, visit here.
Check out my video tutorial for a visual guide through this recipe. Excuse my nervousness….yes, this is the first time I have gotten behind the camera for this site!
Frequently Asked Questions
Since the original publication of this post, I have received numerous repeated questions. I have compiled them all here.
1. I am having issues with an itchy rash under my armpits. Any solutions?
Baking soda can be an irritant for some people. Try decreasing the baking soda by 1 Tbsp and replacing with more cornstarch/arrowroot powder. Itchiness can also often be related to applying this too soon after shaving. Wait an hour or two after shaving to apply. Add 1/4 cup shea butter or cocoa butter to the recipe for its healing benefits is another alternative. You also can try using arrowroot powder as it is more natural on the skin or make sure to choose a talc-free cornstarch. The final option is to apply a thin layer of aloe vera gel/juice to your skin for its healing benefits before applying the deodorant. It will help cool, refresh, and prevent irritations to the skin.
2. Can you use any other oils for this recipe?
It is possible to use other oils on this recipe, such as sweet apricot oil, but we do not recommend other oils simply because they are not as effective as coconut oil with its anti-bacterial benefits. Apricot or olive oil also remain liquid in form, and thus make this messy to apply. Coconut oil remains solid under 76 degrees, so it is perfect for deodorant. You can use palm oil as it is another natural oil that is solid at room temperature, but again not as effective as coconut oil.
3. Will this deodorant stain my clothes?
Not likely or not any more than a standard deodorant or antiperspirant. I have only noticed slight staining on white garments, but this can be avoided by soaking with soap after wearing and before washing. Dishwashing soap and hot water are very effective stain removers.
4. What kind of coconut oil can I use? Is there a recommended brand?
It is recommended to use a high quality coconut oil purchased from a health food store, if possible. I recommend Mountain Rose Herbs coconut oil for its superior quality and benefits. Other recommended brands include Nutiva, Tropical Traditions, and Wilderness Family Naturals. You can also use refined coconut oil, as that version is suitable for the skin but not recommended for consumption. Refined coconut oil will be cheaper in price.
5. Can I add essential oils to this recipe?
Yes, feel free to add various essential oils for the added scent, but beware that essential oils can cause irritations. Start with making a small batch to make sure you do not react. Tea tree oil is an excellent oil to add for its pleasant scent (men and women alike enjoy it), and it has great antibacterial qualities.
6. Is there any solution for preventing this from melting? (Note: coconut oil melts at 76 degrees).
If you live in a particularly warm climate, add a little melted candelilla wax or beeswax to the mixture. Store in your fridge, if necessary. For summer travel, I recommend storing in a cooler. Remove from cooler or refrigerator 10 minutes before use to allow it to soften slightly for application.
7. What’s the benefit of using arrowroot powder over cornstarch?
Standard commercial cornstarch contains talc, which debate continues over its safety for use in body products. Arrowroot is a more natural thickening agent alternative. I use arrowroot powder as an alternative to cornstarch in all my cooking. You can also purchase talc-free cornstarch at your local health food store. Arrowroot powder is available through your local health food store, Whole Foods, Azure Standard, or Bob’s Red Mill.
8. I am allergic to coconut oil, is there any alternatives?
I have heard people experiencing success by replacing coconut oil with equal quantities of shea butter and cocoa butter. You can also use palm oil because it remains solid like coconut oil. Add a few drops of tea tree essential oil for the antibacterial properties.
9. I am heavy sweater? Is this an antiperspirant?
No, this is not an antiperspirant, so you will sweat but it will definitely be decreased quantities. Sweating is a natural bodily process that is necessary for health in removing toxins from your body. I am definitely a heavy sweater myself, but this deodorant works to remove the smells like nothing else I have ever tried. I do recommend multiple applications if you are doing strenuous work or exercise for it to be effective.
Learn more about the benefits of coconut oil and all its wonderful uses here.
To read all the reviews on this recipe, check out the original post here.
I used rice powder/flour instead of arrowroot or cornstarch and it worked great.
I had to mention your website today – on my new website (www.ekofriendly.com). I must say, I am sooooooo grateful for this deodorant recipe! I eat lots of curry type food…and it tends to seep through my underarm pores (sorry for yucky description). Anyway, I now have my friends and even husband using this deodorant. They all love it! God bless you. I love the rest of your site too! Thank you for being such a blessing!
I am getting a yellow stain on white clothes, within mins of applying. If I used a refined coconut oil (instead of raw) would it help? How can i get this not to happen? It’s kinda a deal breaker for me
This stuff is amazing. I have really sweaty arm pits and I haven’t gotten funky all day. I’ve tried the store bought natural ones like toms of maine and jason organics, both didn’t do much for me. This recipe works wonders. My arm pits smell like maccaroons and I love it. Thanks!
Hi – I tried your recipe (just today) and love the idea and had a lot of fun making it and scooping it into a little container… but while i am really interested in the benefits of the coconut oil, i really don’t like smelling so coconutty… i used an organic unrefined expeller-pressed coconut oil from spectrum organics that says it is suitable for medium heat cooking and use as a moisturizer – i know it is not the best oil, but i wanted to make a trial batch right away… could i use another oil, or a combination of oils to minimize the coconuttiness? or is there a brand that smells less like coconut that you can recommend?
thanks so much for any advice and for your blog, which i love
I would recommend simply adding a few drops of your favorite essential oil to give it whatever scent you like.
i used lavender but it still smells coconutastic.. maybe i just need a few more drops – thank you for your reply!
Isobel, from what I understand, the refined coconut oil (for the Spectrum brand, it says ‘suitable for high heat cooking’ or something like that) smells less coconutty. It’s been a while since I bought the refined version, but I remember not liking it as much for cooking because it didn’t smell & taste as coconutty as the unrefined variety. HTH!
I came across this deodorant recipe a little over a year ago. It works wonderfully! I even turned my mother on to it shortly after I started making it. Neither of us have purchased store bought deodorant in over a year! I do have to echo some other comments however and say that if you shaved in the shower, wait a little while to put on the deodorant. I have had several less than pleasant feeling experiences by not waiting. Great recipe!
I’ve never used arrowroot so, I need to know are there brands to avoid? Which brands of arrowroot are preferred or recommended?
Besides using arrowroot in DEO what else would I use it for? In place of cornstarch, ex. to make gravy?
Thank you
arrowroot can be substituted for cornstarch in all your baking/cooking. it works beautifully and is so nutritious for you because it is an herb as well! I don’t have a particular brand to recommend.
Sadly, this recipe broke my underarms out into a rash. I was so disappointed; I really wanted it to work. But, I did see where someone suggested the Crystal stick deodorant – which I bought from Amazon – & have been very pleased with the results! I hope this homemade recipe works for others, but for those of us who aren’t able to use it & still want a natural alternative to name-brand antiperspirants, I highly recommend the Crystal!
Thanks for this – My husband just whipped some up for us and has it setting in the fridge. We also made your Cranberry Orange Coconut Cookies tonight. =)
In Mexico people used to put some fresh rosemary in rubbing alcohol and use that as a natural deodorant. My uncle was very allergic to “modern” deodorants, so he used rosemary-infused alcohol instead. After 3 months, his armpits would not stink, even after exercising! I came across your website and decided to use rosemary essential oil in this recipe and it is FABULOUS! Thanks for the recipe!
I melted my oil before mixing so it was easier. I used low temp and it hardened back up when it cooled. It works really well. Also my husband had very bad foot problems so I told him to try that on his feet and it cleared it up fast. He has tried lots of things too. I was wondering though, do you think if I add peppermint oil to the deoderant it would make a better foot powder.
Wow!
I currently buy deodorant for $11 per stick because it’s the only thing that even resembles working properly. I am very curious to try this.
I know you said it’s mostly a deodorant and not an antiperspirant, but does it work somewhat as an antiperspirant?
Just curious, thanks.
Also, I just found your site and am enjoying it very much. Thanks for sharing.
Yes, I would say so.
I too am a believer in this recipe. I never have B.O. now, and that’s saying a lot. When I first tried it, I got a rash after about 1 week. After reading some of your tips, I cut the baking soda in half, and added a few drops of tea trea oil. I think I may have had to add a little more arrowroot to make it a little stiffer to make up for the lack of baking soda. But, so far, no rash! Here’s to hopin’!
Sorry, I meant that I replaced some of the coconut oil with a little shea butter and cocoa butter.
Love it, love it, love it! Thank you for this recipe & for all you do here. I’ve been using this deodorant for a year now, and it’s even been effective here through the Texas summer. I replaced some of the shea butter with cocoa butter. I cleaned out used applicators (2.6 oz each) and filled those with this natural mixture. I calculated the cost to be only $1 per applicator! WOW!
looking forward to trying this.
This is on my list of things to try!
Great post with several fascinating suggestions! Can’t say I totally agree with everything you have said here, but there are a few critical recommendations you have highlighted that can be quite usable on natural health and related topics. Please keep providing more recommendations on this topic and related issues, as there are quite a few folks who are trying to understand the costs and benefits.
My husband I are almost ready to make our third batch. We went to Disney World this last week and this recipe held up through the heat and humidity perfectly!! I was worried because last time I took my Secret and it failed miserably on me. I will never use anything else but this and will be making batches to give to family and friends.
I actually don’t think you can do better on price, even with homemade, than the “Crystal Deoderant Stick” (found on Amazon, and maybe Target). It’s just a chunk of mineral salts, who knows where it’s mined – no other ingredients. I put it on while I am still dripping wet from the shower and it is very effective for at least 24 hours. One stick lasts my husband and me for a good year or so!
The price is definitely lower that way. But I’ve found that his recipe actually works much better than the crystal type I have been using for years.
I really like this deodorant recipe. After my son was born in February of this year, I decided I wanted to try a natural deodorant (to maybe help prevent any chemicals from possibly soaking right through to my breasts. Don’t know if this was a legitimate worry or not, but better safe than sorry.) Anyways, this recipe worked great for me. He is now 8 months old and I’m making my second batch today. It lasted so long and I never had odor issues. And I am happy to be using more natural products without breaking the bank. Thanks again!
Hi Lindsay, i’m excited about your recipe! thank you for posting.
i noticed you said on the video you preferred arrowroot over cornstarch because of talc.
but cornstarch doesn’t contain talc. ???
Yes, cornstarch does contain talc, unless it specifically states that it does not. Talc would not be listed on the ingredients.
I made a batch of this in the original form and so far, I have been pleased with the scent and the effectiveness. However, I did not like putting my finger in the jar and rubbing it on my underarms so I was aiming at a solid form like the commercial sticks. I experimented with the formula, adding yellow beeswax pastilles (from Mountain Rose Herbs. Thank you again for the information source) to make it more solid. I GOT IT!!! Use Lindsay’s original formula (reduced the coconut oil a tad), however add 2 tablespoons of yellow beeswax pastilles. So: 1 part arrowroot, 1 part baking soda, 1 part coconut oil, and 1/2 part beeswax pastilles. It needs to be heated for the beeswax to melt. You can use a pyrex cup in a double boiler or in the microwave on medium power. I pour it while hot into an empty deodorant container. Make sure your dispensers have a solid bottom and not holes. I used 2 large Arm and Hammer empty deodorant containers. When completely cooled, it has the texture of lipstick and rolls perfectly without crumbling or “rubbing off” too much. I will use this forever for TY again!!!
Hi =)
Thanks so much for posting this alteration to the recipe! I had tried the deodorant recipe before, but it required just a bit of rubbing to get it on, which irritated my sensitive skin. I had to discontinue use for that reason alone…the actual deodorant worked really well for 24 whole hours until my next shower (many natural deodorants have left me waking up feeling a little too natural…not the case with this;)…plus, I didn’t want to have to scrub under my nails “again” every time I applied deodorant. Also, when I put it in a deodorant stick before, it just crumbled. I just happened to have ONE beeswax tart left and immediately made this recipe up. If it works as well as I’m hoping, I’ll probably be making another batch to tuck in Christmas presents this year. =) TFS!
Sometimes my deodorant (this recipe) will melt, such as during travel. Does this change how effective it is? I have applied it when melted and after it has resolidified.
Thank you!
No, it is still as effective.
Haven’t read the comments, just felt compelled to share with anyone who might feel the same as me on this. Life is finite, we’ve only got a certain number of hours on this planet, so if we can save time, that’s a very good thing. I spend a lot of worthy time on DIY stuff, a firm believer in it. I use almost no mainstream products, use all homemade cleaners, never eat at restaurants, never go to mainstream docs, healthfood freak, borax enthusiast, and all that…
But, thankfully, I’ve discovered a few things that are easy in this arena. I no longer waste time with all this business of mixing up homemade deodorant. Years ago, I had tried baking soda and was not happy with it, got white powder-y stuff on my clothes and didn’t seem like it worked on odor at all. Now I know why…
I recently tried baking soda again, did it right this time. And now it’s a joy–how easy it is
I saw a youtube on it that helped.
But here’s what I do and it works like a charm. First, I never use any type of soap, leaves a film, alters pH and is likely the main culprit of odor (among so many other issues). I bathe with salt/soda/borax mix — mostly salt (exfoliating and anti-bacterial). Right out of the shower I swab underarms with witch hazel followed by a swab of hydrogen peroxide (not sure the HP is necessary every day), which I see as a double-whammy in keeping bacteria at bay. I keep a tiny little jar filled with baking soda (’cause you don’t need to use much), moisten finger with water or witch hazel and just dab tip of index finger in it. That’s all ya’ need, just rub it on underarm, rub it in well. Done
You don’t need a bunch of residue hanging out under your arm for it to be effective. The small amount works and consequently it won’t come off on your clothes. First time I did it like this, I was amazed that I had zero smell at the end of the day. I love it.
Dove
Dove,
Thank you so much for this. I tried your method and it works. And works quite well. I haven’t had any issues. Granted it’s winter time so I’m anxious to see how it works in the heat but no issues up to this point. Also, I use soap (Dr. Bronners or Kirks Castile) and haven’t had any issues with this not working.
Question…..do you still use this method when traveling? I was thinking the coconut deodorant might be the way to go for travel because it is less to pack but was curious what your experiences were.
Hi Chris,
For me, I don’t like the thought of oil being in my deodorant–especially in summer. I’d be worried about getting an oil stain on my clothes. And I just don’t feel it’s necessary. Although I adore coconut oil and use it inside and out daily.
So yes, I would take my tiny jar of baking soda when traveling. Witch Hazel is also a staple–a wonderful product. I generally swab it all over body after shower, and I would not leave home without it. Same with hydrogen peroxide. Just so many uses for it. But if for some reason, I forgot or simply couldn’t take those products with me (in smaller containers–note, never put HP in glass), then I’d still just use the fingertip of baking soda for deodorant. You could always dab it a second time during the day if you felt it might be necessary.
I know many people say they have bad reactions to baking soda and tea tree oil. So did I initially. I now feel my reaction to them was a kind of detox. With the baking soda from residue still in pores from previous mainstream deodorants. My thoughts are similar about tea tree, but I also originally used too much of it straight. It is a powerful substance and a little (just a drop or two) goes a long way. But also, I feel it may do a type of detox on the skin. If you can get through that initial reaction/detox, these products are wonderful and very effective.
Dove
I TOO HAVE BEEN USING THE COCONUT OIL, ARROW ROOT POWDER, BAKING SODA DEODORANT RECIPE (WITH THE ADDITION OF TEATREE OIL AND ESSENTIAL OIL FOR FRAGRANCE) FOR ABOUT 3 WEEKS AND FOR A WEEK NOW I HAVE DEVELOPED AN IRRITATING RASH I WASNT SURE IF IT WAS THE SOAP I SWITCHED TO BUT AFTER TALKING WITH MY MOTHER WHO IS ALSO USING THIS RECIPE DEVELOPED THE SAME RASH AND USES A COMPLETELY DIFFERENT SOAP THAN ME I FIGURED ITS THE RECIPE (WHICH IS A MAJOR BUMMER BECAUSE I LIKED THE RECIPE A LOT UNTIL THE RASH). I USE COCONUT OIL TO COOK A LOT OF MY FOODS SO I FIGURED IT CANT BE THAT (TO BE SAFE I HEARD SHEA BUTTER IS A GOOD SUBSTITUTE) SO I WAS WONDERING IF THERE WAS A SUBSTITUTE FOR THE BAKING SODA (SINCE I HEARD IT CAN ALSO CAUSE A RASH) OR WOULD THE RECIPE WORK JUST AS GOOD OR SIMILAR WITH OUT THE BAKING SODA? ANY ADVICE?
I’m a huge stinker, so I was a little scared to give it a try, but I’m hooked! I’ll be buying some oils to start adding to it and will work on getting the nerve to give it as Christmas gifts! : ) I cut the recipe in half and keep it in a tiny jar in the bathroom. I, too, live in Phoenix, so the coconut oil isn’t very solid.. soft but manageable. Thanks for the recipe!
Now that winter has hit and the coconut oil has solidified, I’ve decided I like it MUCH better softer/melted! Now, I warm it up with a blast from the hair dryer for better smearing. I use a craft stick to smear it on, and never get my hands dirty. Thanks again for the easy recipe!
I have used Salt Crystals as a deoderant for over a year now and love it. But I like a nice smell too, so I’ve been using another organic deoderant spray in conjunction. It’s pricey, so I’ve been looking into how I can make my own. The ingredient list is very simple and straightforward, and I think I could copy it very easily (because I LOVE the smell… it’s like a spa).
Anyway, the number one ingredient is alcohol (you could use isopropyl rubbing alcohol or vodka!) followed by a list of essential oils (lemon peel, sage, patchouli, and tea tree to be exact). I’m going to try it! Obviously it makes a liquid deodorant spray, which I happen to prefer, and that’s nice because I can reuse my current spray bottle! Sweet. 
I’ve been using this for the past month with great results – I’ve never had such an effective deodorant! Thanks!
Hi Lindsay, I made myself a batch as per your recipe and I am most pleasantly surprised! I love the fact that the baking soda and cornstarch absorb the moisture, and peppermint and tea tree essential oils in combination with the coconut oil really do a good job at keeping odour forming bacteria at bay. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge!
I can’t wait to try this! I am allergic to coconut oil, has anyone tried Mango butter? It is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and an antioxidant. I will have to melt it to add everything, but then it stays solid and melts at body temp so it should work well in an old deo stick. I love the stuff so I think I will be using Mango butter, just wondering if anyone else has tried it!
This is an amazing deodorant recipe!
My daughter and her family came from Germany to visit this summer and she had found this recipe and wanted to try it. I was a little skeptical, but went along with her in finding all the ingredients. We used Bob’s Mill -no aluminum brand baking soda.
I have now been using the product for over 2 weeks and have had no BO smell, even after working outside on a very hot day. Also, in the morning of the next day, I still noticed no smell and then I wash up and put on a fresh application for the day. I am so excited and amazed at how great this deodorant recipe works… better than any commercial or natural product on the market that I have tried.
Thank you so much!
I am looking forward to sharing it with others.
I have to say, I was a little skeptical when making this. I have tried may natural deoderants, and always ended up a little stinky by the end of the day. I LOVE this recipe. I used followed it exactly with a few drops of tea tree oil. I did use cornstatch, I couddn’t find arrowroot powder, even at my natural stores. My armpits look so pretty, I just want to wear sleeveless shirts to show them off. No clumpy deoderant, even my razor is appreciating the switch.
I have not stunk once since switching, even in the heat and humidity I come out smelling nicely. And I haven’t even noticed an increase in sweating since not using and anti-prespirant.
Thank you so much for sharing this alternative to store bought natural deoderants. I am so happy to find somethign that finally works for me, and is safe to use.
Still loving this deoderant recipe. I think I may try adding in the beeswax and attempt to put it in a deoderant container again. Right now we are using a wide mouth short canning jar. Tried it in the deoderant applciator but it just clumped, and smeared and hurt our armpits.
My husband switched over to this as well, however he is now able to go without deoderant 95% of the time with no odor at all. He’ll use it for a busy day at work but most of the time he is now able to go with out deoderant at all!
Thanks again for a great recipe!
Thank you, thank you, thank you, Lindsay this is by far and wide the BEST deodorant ever, my Hubby loves it and I have even caught him talking about coconut oil benefits with his Buddies. This has been a wonderful blog for the wellness of my family and I do so look forward to such useful info put into a very family centered blog. Thank you for sharing when I know the time you take must be precious.
Hi thank you for sharing this.
. i started to then get some redness. one day it ended up melting and i had to get it more solid again, and i have to say it works pretty great still but i have very red underarms! my fiance is telling me to quit using it, and i keep saying it will go away. i am using it every other day right now. i am also swabbing with witch hazel and my shower soap is dr bronner’s lavender. my underarms dont itch and they really arent all that painful unless they start rubbing on clothes or something. do you think this is some type of reaction? my body getting used to it (i used dove for years before).? or possibly because it liquified, then solidified again, changing chemistry?
the first couple days after i started using it, everything was great. So i thought i would have no issues. then i started getting a little irritation. then i had some dark patches, and little dark spots i could scrape off.
thanks for your help! and your recipe!
(oh and i used arrowroot, aluminum free baking soda, unscented coconut oil, just a couple drops tea tree and peppermint (its a very mildly scented))
It’s likely you’re reacting to the baking soda. Try remaking it using less baking soda and more arrowroot powder (or just adding more oil and arrowroot powder to what you have now to dilute the baking soda). If you still react, you may be allergic to one of the ingredients (try applying a small amount of each to the underside of your wrist at different times to see if one causes a reaction).
You could also try applying aloe vera gel to your underarms and letting it soak in before applying, shaving the night before and applying in the morning, or both. I’ve done this when I’ve had reactions to it (although not as badly as you’ve described).
I’ve had a similar problem. At first I thought it was really bad razor burn, but now I think I might be reacting to the baking soda. It’s such good stuff though! I want to keep using it. Are you having better luck now?
It is the peppermint oil. Menthol, a volatile oil, and the main ingredient in the mints, also is in peppermint. Different oils (brands) have different concentrations of Menthol. I would suggest comparing menthol percentages, and get a lesser concentration of it. Should take care of it, since it sounds more like you are having burns from the menthol.
I use a similar product but it’s predominantly coconut oil.
I melt or semi-melt about 3/4 C coconut oil, mixed with a few tablespoons of baking soda and organic corn starch (enough to keep the coconut oil from solidifying completely when cold). I also mix in one drop each combined of cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, lemon, rosemary essential oils. Love the smell and they have good anti-bacterial/anti-fungal qualities.
I pour this mixture into a 1/2 pint wide-mouth mason jar and let it cool to room temp. Depending on the time of year, it will be more solid or liquidy. I apply by scooping (or lightly digging) out a finger-full for each side and rubbing it in. For all but the few days before my period starts, I can usually get by with one application for 2 days; always at minimum, a whole day.
Be aware that what you eat has a LOT to do with body odors/under arm odor, so if you’re eating a lot of processed foods/sugary foods, you’ll probably notice more odor, sooner.
Also, I hardly sweat much anymore. I think it has to do with the body balancing things out, once you’re no longer inhibiting normal function of the sweat glands with antiperspirant (similar to the principle of your hair being less oily once you’re no longer stripping it every day with shampoo).
I am loving your site. Such a wealth of information and you are so young. I’m 40 and thought I was doing pretty okay with being health conscience, but now am realizing…um…not so much. As I was reading about the soap nuts (which I can’t wait to order some and try them) I found on one site something called a Mineral Salts Deodorant Stone. It supposedly leave a thin film of natural minerals that not only helps control perspiration, but odor as well. It also claims that it lasts a year! I was just wondering have you heard of this type of product and what are your views about it?
I have a tub of coconut oil in my bathroom that I use as an overall body moisturiser. When I am done showering, I simply melt about half a teaspoon of coconut oil between my palms and add a drop of two of lavender oil and rub that into my armpits. It really couldn’t be easier. The lavender oil is antibacterial and soothes your armpits after you have shaved, but most importantly it really works!
Liesl,
I LOVE lavender oil… i was wondering with your recipe (love the simplicity) if it leaves any residue or staining on your clothes. if so, how do you remove?
No. Only possibility is on white garments, but no more than any other commercial deodorant. I find it normally washes out just fine. A little oxygen bleach is a natural stain remover if you have any problems.
what kind of lavender oil do you purchase?
I love this recipe and for a few days it worked great! But now halfway through the day I get smelly. I don’t consider myself a heavy sweater, but I do live in humid Oklahoma. I noticed that other people commented that they don’t smell anymore…I want that! Any suggestions? Is this just an adjustment my body is going through?
Hi Debra,
I think the key in home made deodorant is the right oil (essential) which kills sweaty bacteria on a surface of your skin.
I just made another batch for my husband with peppermint and it’s even better then with orange essential oil.
I have been using homemade deodorant for a few weeks and it’s amazing: no smell during a day (after applying in a morning), going to a gym afterwards makes me sweat but no smell again, taking shower before bed and not applying it usually gives me some smell by morning but not anymore, day application is enough even after washing it off.
Store deodorant used to give me smell, had to freshen up 2 times a day but not anymore.
I suggest kokum butter, beeswax and grape seed(walnut) oil plus peppermint. If it’s too salad, melt it and add career oil (walnut, grape seed).
Thanks, but I just use Lindsay’s recipe and add tea tree oil. Maybe I need more tea tree oil?
I live in GA and due to our budget we keep our thermostat set around 78 degrees. I’m thinking I’ll have to refridgerate my oil to get it to a solid state to make my deoderant and then keep it in the fridge so it doesn’t melt. Is this really worth it? Will I really have to take it out of the fridge for 5-10 minutes before applying it? Thanks for the help/encouragement.
You can apply it when it is solid and firm but it just takes more effort. This may be totally fine if you are using an old deodorant dispenser.
we live in nor Cal and boy its hot this summer, I find keeping it in a wide mouth jar even when melted works wonderfully .
Hubby and I are getting ready to make our second batch and I just had to thank you again. This is the best stuff we have ever used- far above all store brands and natural brands we have tried. It took a bit of time for our bodies to adjust to it, but once they did, there was no more odor at all. I sweat terribly working out at the gym and I NEVER have stinky underarms anymore. Secret didn’t even take care of that in the past. I’m so happy we are using something natural on our bodies! I’m off to make us more, and my sister-in-law and mother-in-law have asked to try a batch also. Thank you so much!
I tried to modify this recipe a little bit because I am in Phoenix and everything melts, including skin
2 TBS beeswax
2 TBS Kokum butter
3 TBS Baking soda
2 TBS Arrowroot powder
3 TBS Almond sweet oil
3 TBS Baobab oil
10 drops Orange oil
10 drops Ylang Ylang oil
Melt in double boiler beeswax and Kokum butter, mix in soda and powder until they dissolve. Add baobab, almond oils, orange, ylang ylang essential oils. Pour into deodorant container, wait for an hour. Kokum butter is the hardest available on the market. Since I live in AZ, I need something that wouldn’t melt quickly. So far I am really happy with this deodorant.
I find this interesting, because your recipe doesn’t have any coconut oil in it! The main point of using coconut oil as the base for the deodorant is because coconut oil has anti-microbial properties. Hmm. So, the orange oil is antibacterial enough to keep the bacteria down so the sweat doesn’t turn stinky? I know people add beeswax to the basic recipe to help harden it even more…I wonder how adding some beeswax AND this Kokum butter stuff to the coconut oil would work.
Now I have to go look up what, exactly, Kokum butter is! *giggle*
Thank you for sharing your recipe!!
I made this about a couple of months ago and I will never use anything else!!! It is amazing how well it works…even better than the chemical filled stuff from the store! LOVE it!!! Thanks so much for sharing this recipe!
I made a batch several months ago, and am now on my second batch. I’ll never use anything else! I keep one jar for the majority of the deodorant, then use another jar for mixing in essential oils based on what I’m in the mood for – lemon, tea tree, lavender, etc. I LOVE it, and am very impressed with its ability to eliminate odor ALL day, even in the hot seasons.
I did find that through time, a charcoally stain emerged on my lighter-colored clothes. I used H20-At-Home’s Netepur natural stain remover soap, and it came right out. If you haven’t heard of them, H20 is a France-based company that uses all natural ingredients for home cleaning (mostly specially designed chiffonettes & water), and personal care. I recommend them if you’re frustrated with toxic store-bought stuff and aren’t making cleaners at home. http://us.h2o-at-home.com/.
Thanks Lindsay for all of your awesome information!
This sounds really cool! Actually, my sister makes deodorant too, and it sounds very close to what she does! I might have to try it sometime! As a matter of fact, I am a true lover of coconut oil and find many uses for it. My sister makes chapstick which I love, and hand lotion(which isn’t as great since it’s rather greasy)and their main ingredient is coconut oil. I’ve also heard of it used for a sunscreen(I think I tried it once). I use it in cooking sometimes as well. It’s great stuff!! =]
I also have a question. You said you can put the mixture into an old deodorant container; how would you recommend doing so? Could you melt the coconut oil and pour it in? If you melt it, does it maintain it’s bacteria fighting properties? Or just spoon it in? Can’t wait to try it! And whoever suggested the amount of lavendar – thanks! I was curious about how much to add. Would that be true for Tea Tree Oil?
No, just scoop it into and level it out with a nice or spoon. Melting it with disrupt the texture. Add only a few drops of essential oil.
i have a question – i made this deodorant and have been having occasional burning armpits! i stop using immediately, give my pits a day or so off, and then try again. sometimes it’s fine, others, it still burns. i had this problem w/ tom’s of maine, too…any thoughts?
thanks!
It could be that your body is stripping itself of the toxins from the standard deodorant. This is not an uncommon process of adapting to the all natural method.
I have this problem too, but it’s only after I shave. It happens with both Tom’s and this recipe. It usually helps to wait awhile (if possible)- 15-30 min after shaving, but sometimes still burns. I just have to suck it up, and it goes away in a few minutes.
Love it! Thank you so much! Such an easy recipe and works GREAT! I added 8 drops of Lavender oil and it has been going wonderfully!
Thank you for posting this! I made some the other day and it works great as well as I had fun making it, thanks for the video too!
I wanted to let you know how very thankful I am that you shared this recipe! I have been searching for a long time for a deodorant that actually works and have spent a LOT of money trying everything. After all my searches, I made this deodorant and it REALLY works!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!