Time To Freshen Up

Perspiration is normally odorless, but bacterial growth and fermentation of perspiration causes odor and there are hundreds of bacteria types thriving in "vibrant communities" on healthy skin.  Antiperspirant affects our sweat glands via the absorption of aluminium.  Aluminium, present most often in antiperspirants has been established as a neurotoxin.  So to neutralize odor I like to use deodorant instead of antiperspirant.  I could use salt to create an unfriendly environment for bacteria under my arms, but I like to also have drying qualities to my deodorant.

Recipe:  2 TBSP Baking Soda, 2 TBSP Corn Starch, 1 to 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, one empty 4 oz deodorant container, optional essential oil. 

Mix the starch and soda, removing any clumps.  Add one tablespoon of oil, mix and test for consistency.  You don't want it too moist which will make it messy to apply, but add a bit more if needed.  Next, if you'd like, add essential oil for fragrance.  Lastly, pack into your container.

I choose lavender essential oil for scent and for its calming, antiseptic and anti-fungal qualities.  However, you can use chose different essential oils.  I believe there is little chance of a 'hot' oil burning with all the other ingredients in the paste.

Now the cost breakdown for 4 oz of deodorant . . . homemade $0.95 vs. store $2.50; nearly 1/3rd the cost!

2 TBSP baking soda	$0.007
2 TBSP cornstarch	$0.192
5 drops essential oil	$0.680
1 - 2 TBSP shortening	$0.072
	$0.951

Also, two things I've noted . . . first, I was able to overfill the container and break it so if you end up with extra don't press too hard, just save it for later.  Second, next time I travel I will put my deodorant in a plastic bag.  The heat of a car trunk can melt the mixture making a pleasant smelling mess.