Beat the Stink Naturally

Herbs & Essential Oils to Keep You Fresh When It's Hot

Summer sun

Summer is almost here, yet the heat waves have already started. I spent the past weekend working outside and sweating buckets.  I am not a fan of sweating, but I respect it; sweat is a natural body process, one of the ways our bodies expel waste and toxins, along with exhaling and going to the bathroom. That is why using antiperspirants is not ideal: they block the sweat instead of letting it do its job.

Still, sweat often comes with odor, and most of us would rather not carry that around. So what are the options? You could grab a commercial deodorant, but most are packed with questionable ingredients. You could also go completely natural and just live with the funk. But here is the good news: you do not have to choose between chemicals and B.O.

You can make your own deodorant—something that actually works with your body instead of against it.

You can be as cute as a skunk without smelling like a skunk

Why Go Natural?

Your skin is your largest organ, and it absorbs a good deal of what you put on it. Conventional deodorants and antiperspirants often include ingredients like:

• Aluminum compounds: are linked to hormone disruption, clog your sweat glands, and may also clog lymph nodes

• Parabens: synthetic preservatives linked to potential hormone disruption

• Synthetic fragrances: can trigger sensitivities, allergies, headaches, and disrupt hormones

• Triclosan: an antimicrobial agent with ties to thyroid disruption, hormone imbalances, and antibiotic resistance

When you switch to natural deodorants, you support your body's natural detox process while still maintaining social acceptability: win-win!

Mint and sage

Herbs That Help with Odor & Sweat

Let’s review some herbs that help you stay naturally fresh and odor-free:

• Sage (Salvia officinalis) - herbalists have long used sage for excessive sweating; it helps regulate moisture without blocking your pores

• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) - not limited to just a pretty scent, lavender has genuine antimicrobial properties that help fight odor-causing bacteria while being gentle on sensitive underarm skin

• Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) & Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus) - culinary herbs that are antimicrobial powerhouses; they tackle the bacteria that create odor at the source

• Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) & Spearmint (Mentha spicata) - beyond just a refreshing cooling sensation, these mints offer antimicrobial benefits and leave you feeling fresh

Essential Oils for a Fresh Boost

These essential oils offer deodorant properties while bringing delightful aromas:

• Citrus Oils (lime, lemon, mandarin) - uplifting, antibacterial, and naturally deodorizing; just make sure to use distilled versions to avoid sun sensitivity

• Evergreen Oils (cypress, Siberian fir, black spruce, cedarwood) - these woodsy scents are incredibly long-lasting and have strong antimicrobial properties, perfect for active days

• Tea Tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) - the gold standard for fighting bacteria and fungus naturally

• Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) - gentle enough for daily use, effective enough to keep you fresh

• Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin) - do not dismiss this earthy oil; it is surprisingly effective, and has delightful staying power

Coconut oil is naturally deodorizing

Carrier Oils & Butters for Deodorant Bases

Your deodorant base provides both odor control and skin nourishment:

• Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera) - naturally antimicrobial and solid at room temperature, making it perfect for stick deodorants

• Babassu Oil (Attalea speciosa) - a lighter alternative to coconut oil that melts beautifully on skin without feeling greasy

• Shea Butter (Vitellaria paradoxa) - creamy, nourishing, and helps create a smooth application

• Cocoa Butter (Theobroma cacao) - adds firmness to your deodorant while contributing a subtle, pleasant scent

Simple Recipes to Try

Basic Solid Deodorant

Holds up well in warmer weather and works great in a stick or small jar

• 2 Tbsp coconut oil

• 1 Tbsp cocoa butter

• 1 Tbsp jojoba or almond oil (optionally, create an herbal-infused oil using aromatic herbs such as sage and lavender)

• 1-2 Tbsp tapioca flour or cornstarch

• 1 Tbsp beeswax

• 10-12 drops of essential oil(s) of choice

In a double boiler over low heat, melt cocoa butter and beeswax, then add in coconut oil and melt, finally, stir in the jojoba oil. Remove from heat, then add tapioca flour (use 2 Tbsp for more moisture absorption if needed) and essential oil. Stir well to blend all ingredients, pour into an empty deodorant tube or a small jar. Let cool completely. Keeps for up to 12 months stored in a cool, dry place.

Essential Oil Suggestions:

• Fresh & Clean: 4 drops lavender, 3 drops lemon, 3 drops cypress

• Citrusy: Mandarin, 4 drops distilled lime, 4 drops lemon, 3 drops tea tree

• Earthy/Woodsy: 4 drops patchouli, 3 drops black spruce, 3 drops tea tree

Creamy Formula for Sensitive Skin

No baking soda, no beeswax—just gentle, nourishing ingredients

• 2 Tbsp babassu oil

• 2 Tbsp shea butter

• 1-2 Tbsp tapioca flour or cornstarch

• 5-10 drops of vitamin E or rose hip oil

• 5 drops of lavender essential oil

• 5 drops of patchouli essential oil

In a double boiler over low heat, melt babassu oil, then add in shea butter and melt. Remove from heat, and add tapioca flour, vitamin E oil, and essential oil. Stir well to blend all ingredients, and pour into a clean small jar. Let cool completely. Store in a cool, dry place. Apply a small amount with clean fingers and allow to absorb before dressing. Keeps for up to 12 months stored in a cool, dry place.

My Personal Deodorant Recipe

This recipe doubles as a hair smoother/moisturizer

• 4 Tbsp babassu oil (infused with calendula and lavender)

• 1 Tbsp tapioca flour

• 1 Tbsp cornstarch

• 3 drops of lavender essential oil

• 3 drops of geranium essential oil

Using a double boiler over low heat, I infuse the babassu oil with calendula and lavender for about 4 hours. Strain out the herbs, and blend in the powders and essential oils. I created this as a multipurpose blend to use as a deodorant, moisturizer, skin soother, and hair smoother. Keeps for up to 12 months stored in a cool, dry place.

Troubleshooting:

• Too soft? Try adding/increasing cocoa butter or beeswax

• Too hard? Decrease cocoa butter or beeswax, or increase "soft" oils/butters such as coconut

• Not effective enough? Try different essential oil combinations or add a pinch of baking soda

Making the Switch

If you are used to commercial deodorant, your body might need time to adjust. You may notice a little more sweating or odor at first, which is normal; it usually improves in a couple of weeks as your system rebalances.

Natural deodorant has gotten a bad rap because it's not a one-size-fits-all scenario; not every pit is the same! Your skin’s microbiome, activity level, and even diet all influence your body odor. If one blend does not do the job, don’t give up. Keep a notebook of your recipes, noting what works, what doesn't, what you like, and what you don't like, and you will be able to create a recipe that works for you.

Tips for the Transition:

• Start your transition during a less active period or cooler weather

• Keep some natural deodorant in your bag for touch-ups

• Do not be afraid to experiment with different recipes (keep good notes)

• If you experience irritation, stop using it, make a note, and change the recipe

Final Thoughts

Creating your own natural deodorant is not just about avoiding chemicals - it is about working with your body's natural processes while staying confident and comfortable. Whether you prefer the forest-fresh scent of evergreen oils or the bright lift of citrus, there is a natural combination that will keep you feeling fresh all summer long.

Remember, the goal is not to stop sweating entirely (that is actually unhealthy!), but to manage odor naturally while supporting your body to function as designed. Your skin, your health, and honestly, your nose will thank you.