DIY Green Tea Deodorant Recipe

Commercial deodorants and antiperspirants have stirred up controversy in both consumer and health communities. Many are uncertain about which products are safe. This week, I wanted to explore what's really going on with these products and why it’s crucial to be aware of what we’re applying to our underarms.

The debate largely centers around the lack of comprehensive studies linking antiperspirant use to toxicity. Some even suggest a connection between antiperspirants and breast cancer. But with limited research available, how do we make informed choices?

Here’s what I discovered…*

Aluminum: A Key Concern

Aluminum is the primary active ingredient in most antiperspirants, and also the most controversial. Used to block sweat glands and reduce perspiration, aluminum raises several red flags.

Firstly, sweating is a natural detoxification process. By blocking it, antiperspirants not only plug sweat glands with toxins but also inhibit the body from releasing harmful substances.

More concerning is that aluminum has been shown to act as a xenoestrogen, a hormone disruptor that mimics estrogen. Estrogen is vital not just for reproductive health but for the entire body’s functionality in both men and women. Research suggests a link between xenoestrogens and an increased cancer risk, as they may accelerate the growth of cancer cells by disrupting the body’s natural defenses.

Some argue that aluminum is present in antiperspirants at low levels, but we haven't studied the long-term effects of continuous exposure to small amounts. Common sense suggests that if a substance is harmful in large doses, it’s still risky in smaller doses over time.

There’s also speculation around aluminum’s role in Alzheimer’s disease. While we can’t definitively say aluminum is a cause, many Alzheimer’s patients have elevated aluminum levels in their brains—yet another reason to be cautious.

Parabens and Triclosan

Parabens and triclosan are also common ingredients in antiperspirants. Like aluminum, they mimic hormones and can interfere with the body's endocrine system.

Parabens, used as antifungal and antibacterial agents, are often detected in breast cancer tissue. Although research doesn’t definitively prove parabens cause cancer, they’re classified as endocrine disruptors in Europe, where they are restricted in cosmetics.

Triclosan, similar to parabens, kills bacteria but can also interfere with hormones. Interestingly, while the FDA banned triclosan from hand soaps due to health risks, it remains approved for use in antiperspirants.

At the bottom of this page, you’ll find a recipe for homemade green tea deodorant that’s free from harmful chemicals and easy to make. If you prefer not to make your own, there are plenty of other safe, natural deodorant options available as well!

*This article is for informational purposes only and not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your wellness routine.

References:

• Ahn, K. C., Zhao, B., Chen, J., et al. (2008). In vitro biologic activities of antimicrobials. Environmental Health Perspectives, 116(9), 1203-1210.
• Antiperspirants/Deodorants and Breast Cancer. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/.
• Bollinger, T. (2018, June 29). Cosmetics and Cancer-Causing Ingredients. Retrieved from https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/.
• Darbre, P. D. (2016). Aluminum and the human breast. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/.
• Suzuki, D. (n.d.). The Dirty Dozen: Parabens. Retrieved from https://davidsuzuki.org/.