Make Your Own Deodorant

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The first question you might ask is, why would you want to make your own deodorant? In the US, after all , 95% of the adult population use deodorants and antiperspirants. Why bother to make something that can be so easily purchased?

My answer, my reason for trying this Do It Yourself project, is simple. While I am in the process of increasing my health and well being by changing my diet, fighting viruses with plant based foods, and detoxing from heavy metals, it seems counterproductive to keep using a product that contains unhealthy chemicals and additives.

Make Your Own Deodorant title meme

 

Unhealthy Ingredients

My research shows that most deodorants and antiperspirants contain these ingredients that are not good for us:

* aluminum-a primary ingredient, this metal has been linked to breast cancer and increased risk of Alzheimer’s. Aluminum clogs the pores to prevent sweat from reaching the skin’s surface.

* parabens-a synthetic preservative that can disrupt hormonal balance. This chemical has been linked to birth defects and organ toxicity.

* propylene glycol-a petroleum based material that can cause damage to the central nervous system, heart and liver.

* phthalates-another chemical that has been linked to health issues, including birth defects.

* triclsoan-a substance classified as a pesticide that is a known carcinogen.

As I am seeking improved health, I have made the decision to stop using products that can compromise my well being. When I ran out of the antiperspirant I have used for years, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to switch to a healthier version. I felt inspired to make my own!

Make Your Own Deodorant

Make Your Own Deodorant

I used this simple recipe, from Thank Your Body:

1/3 cup arrowroot starch (available from health food stores or click link below)

2 tablespoons baking soda

1/3 cup coconut oil

10-15 drops of essential oil (optional)

Combine arrowroot starch and baking soda in a small bowl. (You can substitute pure cornstarch if you want. Just make sure it doesn’t have aluminum in it.) Add coconut oil (I softened the oil for 20 seconds in the microwave) and blend, using a spoon. Add essential oil, if desired. I added 10 drops of orange oil and 5 drops of rosemary, creating a light, clean scent. Combine, pressing mixture with back of spoon, until well mixed and smooth. Use by smoothing small amount on underarms with fingertips.

Make Your Own Deodorant

Does It Work?

Making my own deodorant only took a few minutes. I tried a dab on my inner wrist and tested it under my right arm. I have been using this DIY deodorant for a couple of months now, and it is working wonderfully!

I feel good about this unique creative endeavor, and good about further eliminating my body’s contact with chemicals and toxins. Healthy living, for me, involves more than diet and exercise, although those are crucial. What I don’t allow to interact with my body is important too, even if it puts me in a category considered outside the norm.

The second question you might ask, and I get this one frequently, is…are you a hippie? That’s a simple answer as well.

Yes…yes I am!

Make Your Own Deodorant

You can order arrowroot starch below:

 

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Saying HELLO to Healthy Me

It has been seven months since I switched to a plant based lifestyle and became very diligent about taking back my health. I was mindful of my healing journey as I showered this morning, checking in with myself as I assessed where I am right this moment. 

Because I was working in my creative studio this morning, after I stepped out of the shower, I felt inspired to wrap up in a beautiful sarong that I picked up on a trip to Phoenix. As the steamed over full length mirror cleared, I caught sight of myself. 

Hello, healthy you! I greeted myself. I was being silly. Yet instantly, my eyes filled with tears. 

Saying HELLO to Healthy Me

I looked at myself, not in a critical way as I used to, but with appreciation for the amazing changes that have occured in seven short months. I have clear skin, and a glow that emanates from within. I am smaller and more fit. Best of all, my pain level was at a ZERO. Swirling like a little girl in a frilly dress, I moved freely. No limp. No cane. So many ailments have disappeared completely. Most amazing of all, my sciatic nerves are no longer inflammed. 

I feel healthy, strong and fit. I feel good, creating a sense of euphoria. My journey will continue. Plant based is a lifestyle for me, not a diet. I am still clearing viruses and toxins from my body. As I do, my legs are regaining flexibility and strength. The muscles around my knees tighten up if I sit or sleep with my legs bent for too long, however, there is improvement every day. I feel healing continuing. 

Saying HELLO to Healthy Me
During my life, I have hidden so many aspects of myself. For years and years, I hid my intuitive side, confused by my ability to receive information in non traditional ways, afraid people would think I was a freak. I hid my voice and my thoughts, my ideas and my desires to create and grow and challenge myself, choosing to remain silent and play small. 

After the car accident 22 years ago, I hid the daily pain, and the increasing difficulty I had walking, until I could no longer deny it. I hid behind excess weight, and baggy clothes and oversized hoodies, and an I don’t care attitude. 

No more. 

My little impromptu photo shoot, after I figured out how to use the timer on my iphone, is a beautiful declaration that I am no longer hiding, no longer sick, no longer in pain, no longer silent. I love my healthy body and I am tuned in to what I need and what I don’t need. I am getting to know myself in fresh new ways, and I am so grateful for this journey and this opportunity. 

Hello, healthy me! I am so glad to know you.

Saying HELLO to Healthy Me