Natural Deodorant Options

Finding a non-toxic deodorant was my first venture into the world of alternative grooming products.  Antiperspirants and deodorant often contain synthetic chemicals, heavy metals such as; aluminum, and parabens. Antiperspirants also prevent the body from eliminating toxins through the sweat glands. 

Homemade deodorant; effective and economical.

You wouldn't think that your morning ritual of grooming was dangerous, but I have learned the average woman exposes herself to between 135 and 515 different synthetic chemicals each day with the application of grooming products. 

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Chemicals applied to the skin in cleansers, lotions, and make up are absorbed and enter the blood stream directly, unlike chemicals in food and drink that are first processed through the digestive system.

Limiting our exposure to harmful chemicals can seem overwhelming, but replacing your deodorant is a very easy step in the right direction.


It took some time and research before I found an effective alternative to commercial deodorant.


I first tried the Tom's brand and was not satisfied with its ability to prevent pit odor.  Next I spent big bucks for a product called Lavilin, whose paste like creme was effective, but too expensive for my budget at $17 for 12 grams.

A friend told me that she made her own deodorant which inspired me to research recipes.  I found a recipe that I like because it not only prevents odor, but is cost effective and super easy to make.  I tweaked it a bit and am very satisfied with the results.

It is fun to open your kitchen pantry and pull out most of the ingredients for this recipe!

I used a lavender, rose petal, and red clover salve instead of coconut oil.

Homemade Deodorant

Mix together thoroughly;

1/3 C coconut oil  (or a salve made from herbs infused in olive oil and thickened with bees wax)

1/3 C arrow root powder

2 TBS baking soda

Essential Oils - optional

Stir the baking soda into the arrow root powder, then add the oil/salve.

Add 10 -15 drops essential oil if you like your deodorant scented then place in several small jars. Store the extra jars in your refrigerator until you are ready to use or share them.  I have used lavender essential oil and also a combination of cinnamon and sweet orange, but use any scent that you like.

The finished product.

Coconut oil has a low melting point and tends to get runny when room temperatures rise above 80 degrees.  For summer use I would recommend using infused and thickened oil in place of coconut oil.  You can check out my blog posts, Herbal Oil Infusions and Making an Herbal Salve for instructions.

I especially like to use a salve that contains oil infused with red clover buds.  Red clover is known for its ability to promote breast health.

Veriditas lavender and Women's deodorant can be safety applied undiluted.

Sometimes I use undiluted lavender essential oil as a deodorant (please note that not all brands of essential oils are safe to apply to your skin undiluted), but found a blend that I really like; Veriditas Botanicals Women's Deodorant.  This blend has a strong scent that I enjoy, and according to their website it is beneficial for breast health. Here is information copied from their website:


To use, simply apply 3-5 drops undiluted to fingertips and rub under each arm as needed. Our woman's deodorant features the feminine smells of ylang ylang and rose geranium.......These oils stick around and do their job from anywhere to 6-12 hours. When beginning, start with less and add more to find out how much you need for an effective dose.

*For Breast health
These therapeutic formulas have more than just anti-bacterial effects. Both deodorants are high in limonene - anticarcinogenic monoterpenes, and other lymph cleansing and cell protective properties. After underarm application, use a second application of your deodorant to the breasts and sides of body to increase lymph-cleansing and circulation (combating the constriction of the bra!). This method of daily breast massage with oils will support breast health and vitality.



I use three drops in an infused herbal oil and find that quantity effective for both arms.  This essential oil blend has a strong smell and some may find using 5 drops a bit overwhelming.

Combating body odor is not limited to an external application, but can be accomplished by consuming substances high in chlorophyll.  

I like to drink nettle infusions and found that daily consumption not only stops body odor before it starts, but also provides a big boost of vitamins and minerals.  

There are many other sources of chlorophyll that can be included in your diet.  When thinking about chlorophyll rich foods, think green such as; dark leafy greens, fresh green herbs, blue-green algae, wheat grass, matcha green tea, green vegetables and seaweed.

Stinging nettles in early spring.

I hope you have the chance to explore natural alternatives for body odor.   It is so empowering when you can stop using products that have the potential to harm you and start using natural products that enhance your health.