Tea tree oil's antibacterial effects may help control underarm odor related to perspiration.Sweat itself does not smell. However, when secretions from your sweat glands combine with bacteria on your skin, a moderate to strong odor is produced.Your underarm area contains a large concentration of these glands and is mainly responsible for what is commonly referred to as "body odor." Tea tree oil's bacteria-fighting properties make it an ideal natural alternative to commercial deodorants and antiperspirants.
- 3 Tbsp Coconut Oil
- 3 Tbsp Shea Butter
- 1/4 Cup Arrow Root Powder or Cornstarch
- 1/4 Cup Baking Soda
- 1 Tbsp Bee's Wax Optional: works well if using an old deodorant container
- 20-30 Drops Tea Tree Essential Oil or Lavender if you don't have tea-tree on hand
Melt the coconut oil and shea butter (and bee's wax if using) in a glass jar. To do this, sit the jar in a pot of boiling water--this will create a double-boiler affect. I use the same jar everytime I make deodorant because it's very hard to clean the jar after this process.Once they have melted together, remove from heat, and stir in the baking soda, arrow root powder and tea-tree oil.Pour the misture into silicone molds, a jar, a small container or an old deodorant stick. If using an old deodorant stick, wait a few minutes until the mixture has thickened a bit--this will make it easier to work. As you can see, I've used all three options, so just choose what you think will work best for you. The mold was formed by pouring the mixture into mini-silicone-muffin 'tins.'Let the mixture set for several hours or overnight before using.Depending on how you made it, you can apply the deodorant directly to your underarm, or with your fingers. If you get some on your hands just rub it in, it's just like lotion.
