Homemade Deodorant (without the Aluminum!)

So, Melissa and I  have been talking about how we'd like to stop using store bought deodorant/antiperspirant. We know we are protected children of God, however, why do we need to keep putting chemicals under our arms every day? I mean, didn't God design us to sweat? Preventing our bodies' ability to get rid of toxins and cool itself just doesn't seem that smart! 

Obviously, no one wants to stink either or smell like a hippie soaked in patchouli oil!! So, I found a super easy recipe to try that several bloggers have sworn by! It might not work for 90 degree days in July, but hopefully it will for most days! I'll keep you all posted as I try it out!

INGREDIENTS

1/4 C baking soda
1/4 C corn starch
6 TBSP coconut oil (I love this stuff)

I just warmed the oil a bit until it wasn't solid anymore, combined the dry ingredients, and then mixed it all together! It smells like the beach and should be really good for anyone with sensitive skin! I put it in a mason jar and use a tongue depressor to apply! Fingers crossed!

Homemade Body Wash

Last year after studying ingredient lists and spending a lot of money on natural care body care items, I decided to start learning to make my own body items.  Body wash is the easiest and cheapest thing I have ever made!  It only takes a few minutes to whip up a batch.  You can make it from things you have on hand right now.  A bar of soap, water and olive oil.  This recipe doubles as a hand soap as well!  Once you use this you will never go back to buying body wash or hand soap filled with toxins and chemicals. Save your last pump bottle and reuse it for your very own mixture. (I take off the labels first.)

1.  Grate a bar of soap.  I have been told that moisturizing soaps like Dove do not work well.  You might want to use the brand you have on hand already this time.  Then next time you can pick a natural soap.  You can work on this recipe until it is just like you like it. 

2.  Bring four cups of water to a boil.

3.  Once it boils, turn off the heat and add the grated soap. Continue to stir until the soap is completely melted. Add a teaspoon of olive oil.

4.  Let it sit to cool for at least 15 minutes.  Stir again. You should see that the mixture has started to become thicker.

5.  Allow it to cool for several hours or overnight.

6.  Stir to check the consistency.  You can adjust it even at this point.  If it is too thick you can reheat and add more water.  Same goes for if it is too thin, reheat and add more soap.  But keep in mind the finished product is a little thick, test it in your bottle if you aren't sure.

7.  Pour into jars or containers.  Enjoy!!

Melissa