Happy Hippie Housewifery

I am always on the lookout for good recipes
for something I can make at home instead of buying at the store. Today’s
experiment was homemade deodorant. Here was the basic recipe I used.

1/2 cup coconut oil

3 Tbsp. beeswax pellets

3Tbsp. baking soda

1 Tbsp. arrowroot powder or cornstarch

3-4 drops essential oil

Heat ingredients together in a small pan over low heat until dissolved. Stir until thoroughly mixed. Pour into an old deodorant stick or a small jar and let set overnight or put into refrigerator to harden.

Some specifics of the recipe I used:

I used Spectrum refined organic coconut oil. Any brand/type should work the same. Unrefined will smell like ummmmm, coconuts. So if you do not want a slightly tropical smell go with refined.

I used Bob's Red Mill aluminum free baking soda. Again any brand/type should work.

I used Lavender and Tea tree oil to scent mine.

I recycled an empty deodorant stick
container. I just washed it out and turned the dial until it was all the way
back down and refilled it. If you do not have an empty one a baby food jar or small condiment jar works well if you don't mind applying it with your fingers.

The verdict

It smells great. I am a big fan of lavender.
I think it could be made with any essential oil. I think I will try a bergamot
or lemongrass the next time around.

It is not an antiperspirant. I was a bit
sweaty when doing sweaty type stuff. That might be more of an issue in the hot
weather but I live in Minnesota, so in all honesty, nine months of the year it
is not a big concern for me. Coconut oil does liquefy when warm so you need to keep this at room temperature or less. Some people store it in the fridge.

My arm pits have never felt softer.