I'm always looking for natural alternatives for the products I use every day. Conventional deodorant often contains harsh chemicals (like aluminum), which have been linked to certain cancers. So deodorant was one of those products that I knew I would prefer to make homemade and eliminate all the toxins.
Although I was skeptical at first, living in Michigan and its hot, humid summers, I have been really pleased with how effective this non-irritating formula has been. It may seem intimidating to make deodorant at home, but this recipe is easy and quick to prepare (less than 10 minutes).
See what the buzz is about and give it a try!
1) Melt coconut oil, beeswax pellets and shea butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously until melted.
2) Once completely melted, remove from heat and whisk in arrowroot powder and baking soda. Mix thoroughly and quickly as mixture will start to thicken.
3) Pour into empty containers (this recipe will fill two standard size deodorant containers) and let your homemade deodorant sit until completely set (usually takes a couple hours).
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Propolis is a resinous mixture produced by honey bees when they collect sap from trees and mix it with beeswax and enzymes. The result: nature’s own protective compound, used by bees to seal their hive and guard against bacteria, fungi, and weather.
Because of its rich composition of polyphenols, flavonoids, and antimicrobial compounds, propolis is now valued as a “bee-made immunity booster” and “ wellness ally.” PMC+2PMC+2
Let’s get real about honey bees for a second: These little guys are basically the world’s MVPs. You think they buzz around making honey for your toast? Bees: The Real Foodies’ Wingmen, Here’s the serious bit: When bees start dropping off, it’s a big red flag for the environment. They’re like those canaries in the coal mine—if they’re not okay, odds are, we’re messing something up (pesticides, climate, you know the drill). Saving the bees isn’t just about saving honey; it’s about keeping our own butts.
Bee Pollen vs. Royal Jelly vs. Propolis: There are numerous bee products available, so let’s take a moment to examine the differences between bee pollen, royal jelly, and propolis.
Bee products have been revered for thousands of years, trans-culturally, for nourishment, healing, and well-being. Today, they are being rediscovered as natural superfoods. Three of the most popular treasures of the hive are bee pollen, royal jelly, and propolis. They’re often combined, but each is also quite distinct in its origins, components and health benefits. Appreciating these differences can help you make the most of what nature’s hardest workers offer.