Homemade on the Homestead: Deodorant and Apple Cider Vinegar

A few things have kept me from posting this week.  For one, Joseph has needed my help in the shop more than usual.  Getting more hours there is a good thing.  Our sweet pup, Guinness, had a bit of (routine) surgery as well.  He's not quite his spunky self just yet, but is doing very well.  There's a new item I've been working on for my shop, which I'll share once I've taken pics.

Thanks to generous neighbors, there are apples drying in the dehydrator, and a batch of apple cider vinegar started.  In the past, I've juiced the apples to begin.  Today, I'm trying this, using just the cores and peels.  I did add some of the "mother" from the previous batch, and will be adding more peels and cores to it over the next few days.  I was happy with the way the last batch turned out, but if I can do without using the juicer, that'll be one less gadget to clean, which is always a good thing.

This homemade deodorant has passed every test with flying colors.  Hot, humid days doing manual labor in the shop is about as much as I can throw at it, and it kept me non-stinky :o)  Can't ask for more than that.  The original recipe came from Heather at Beauty that Moves.  Her lovely blog has been a favorite of mine for a couple of years, so it's no surprise this recipe is now a favorite too.

Heather's Coconut Oil Deodorant

1/4 cup arrowroot powder
1/4 cup baking soda
4 tablespoons coconut oil (the recipe called for extra virgin; I substituted regular)
10 drops lavender essential oil
3-4 drops patchouli essential oil

In a medium bowl, sift arrowroot and baking soda.  Add coconut oil and essential oils.
Using a fork, combine well (as if you were cutting butter into flour).
Next, using the back of a large serving spoon, press the mixture together to work it into a smooth paste.
Pack mixture into a glass jar (a 4 oz canning jar is perfect) and it's ready to use.  Store at room temperature.

To use:  Scoop a small amount onto your fingertips and apply to underarms.  Your body heat will almost instantly melt it and you can easily rub it in.    Note: there is the faintest hint of white when you first apply.

So many essential oils have antibacterial properties, I'm sure you could substitute others if you're not a fan of patchouli.  I'm thinking I may try sandalwood next time, possibly rosemary another.  It's such a good product, I've pondered adding the deodorant to my shop, for those who don't care to make it themselves.  I'd appreciate any input on that.  Have a beautiful, late summer weekend, friends!