Have you ever heard of the Lymphatic system? I’m sure you have. Do you know what it’s main function is? To help the body transport lymph fluid for fighting infection and to REMOVE toxins and waste product. Do you know where there are over 20 lymph nodes located? In the ARMPIT! We need to DETOX this important system often and while we are at it, how about use a deodorant that does just that!
It is important to keep the lymphatic system clear and moving well to keep the body’s “Garbage disposal” system in top working order.
Here is the problem: Traditional deodorants and anti-perspirants use chemicals and additives KNOWN to cause cancer, disrupt hormones (bad PMS, moodiness, low thyroid anyone?), Alzheimer’s Disease and while they are at it, clog up the workings of those lymph nodes to prevent and suppress the immune system from doing it’s full job. Consider the location of the armpit and the close proximity to the breast and mammary tissue. Why would you want to apply these cancer causing chemicals near this sensitive area of the body?
(If you want to get all research-y on me, here are the bad ingredients you can google about: Aluminum, phthalates, propylene glycol, formaldehyde, parabens and antibacterial substances.)
Have no fear!
You can turn the ship around and help to detoxify your armpits and begin to use natural DIY deodorants using essential oils.
(Note: There is a transition period of moving from conventional deodorants to the natural kind, aka some smell, sweating, and detoxing, I will try to help you mitigate those. Stay strong, your health is on the way!)
There are 3 key steps in this process:
1). Armpit Detox
2). Switch to Natural Deodorant
3). Clean up your diet….less junk in, less junk for you lymphatic system to clear = less stink!!!
Before we get to the recipes let me tell you about an awesome armpit detox recipe ( this is originally from Wellness Mama, find her original article here: https://wellnessmama.com/25432/detox-your-armpits/)
I personally recommend doing this a couple times a week for a few weeks and be sure to DRINK A LOT OF WATER and exercise for at least 15 minutes to help your lymphatic system start flowing.
Make a paste of the following:
1 tbs bentonite clay (I use Redmond, find at a local health food store or online)
1 tsp apple cider vinegar (I use Braggs with the “mother”)
1-2 tsp distilled water
*optional: 1-2 drops of essential oil- purify, rosemary, patchouli, zendocrine or cilantro is typically what I reach for*
Mix and apply to pits 5-20 minutes.
I like to do this right before showering while wait for the water to get hot and I brush my teeth.
Now for the recipes.
Honestly, the options are ENDLESS!
Here are the basic supplies to gather:
-Rollerball or 1 oz glass spray bottle (Depends on how you want to apply, I usually “Roll”.) -A carrier of choice. I suggest Fractionated Coconut Oil or Magnesium Spray (I use Ancient Minerals).
(More on the magnesium spray: Magnesium oil is not actually oil, but feels oily. You get a boost of magnesium and it helps to prevent underarm odor.)
-Various Essential Oils (Look at their specific benefits and aromas to choose, look out at citrus oils as they increase photosensitivity, I only use those for deodorant during the winter.)
Recipe 1:
10 drops Lavender
10 drops doTERRA Purify
+ fill the rest with your choice of deodorant base (FCO or magnesium spray) to roller or 1 oz. spray bottle.
Benefits: Purify is a cleansing blend to help clear toxins, boost immune system and keep odor causing bacteria at bay while lavender gives a soothing and gentle aroma and is supportive to sensitive tissue.
Recipe 2:
8 drops Clary Sage
8 drops Siberian Fir
8 drops Melaleuca
+ fill the rest with your choice of deodorant base. (see above)
Benefits: Melaleuca is highly purifying, cleanses the skin and supports the immune system function, Clary Sage has a lovely light aroma and is wonderful for supporting the hormonal system, Siberian Fir is soothing to the skin, is grounding, helps to ease the emotions.
Recipe 3:
(Leah’s personal favorite)
*I made mine in a 30 ml roller so you can double or triple this if needed, recipe is for 10ml roller*
6 drops Clary Sage
6 drops Siberian Fir
6 drops Melaleuca
6 drops Frankincense
6 drops Copaiba
2 drops Blue Tansy
+ fill the rest with your choice of deodorant base. (see above)
Benefits: Frankincense is a master cleanser on the cellular level and is incredible for supporting deep work and protecting the cells and activating the immune system. Copaiba is a heavy hitter as an antioxidant, promotes clear, smooth skin, clams and supports the nervous system and is another powerhouse oil like Frankincense. Blue Tansy is a precious and highly prized oil, incredible at calming an inflammatory response, supports the immune system and aids in histamine response. (this will temporarily cause the skin to be blue, it will fade!). Melaleuca is highly purifying, cleanses the skin and supports the immune system function, Clary Sage has a lovely light aroma and is wonderful for supporting the hormonal system, Siberian Fir is soothing to the skin, is grounding, helps to ease the emotions.
Be sure to let me know if you try one of these and what you think!!
