Super simple, effective DIY deodorant

By Sari Huhtala

One of the best odour eaters for your fridge doubles as a deodorizer to keep your armpits smelling fresh and clean all day. This two-ingredient DIY deodorant is about 20 times cheaper than any store-bought pit stick, is 100 per cent natural, and likely works better than most natural deodorants on the store shelves.

Sodium bicarbonate (aka baking soda) and a touch of coconut oil is all you need to create this fabulous deodorant. It’s super simple, and effective. Here’s why.

The alkalinity of baking soda, when it comes in contact with acidic odours, like body odour caused by bacteria breaking down acids in sweat, neutralizes the odours. Changing the pH under the pits helps get rid of the smell.

Sodium bicarbonate is a form of crystalline salt found in natural mineral deposits. All brands of baking soda are free from aluminum. How can you tell? Read the ingredients. The only ingredient should be sodium bicarbonate. Baking powder, on the other hand, most often contains aluminum, but not baking soda.

Coconut oil is a fabulous antibacterial and antifungal agent. Pair it with the odor-eating power of baking soda and it makes a perfect deodorant.

Simply combine baking soda and coconut oil in a ratio of about 2:1. The consistency shouldn’t be oily, yet easy to smooth over skin. To use, scoop a pea-sized drop of deodorant onto your fingertip and spread over armpit.  

Store in a covered jar at room temperature.

Sari Huhtala is the creator, publisher and editor of Alive and Fit Magazine, which was created in 2007.  She has over 25 years of experience in journalism and over 15 years of experience as a certified personal trainer and fitness instructor, and is a holistic chef, offering holistic cooking and edible wilds workshops. She is an organic farmer, wild-crafter and grandmother, who has spent over 20 years navigating a holistic, healthy path for her family. Reach her at friends@thelaughingforest.ca