Between Close Friends

Underarm Deodorant Powder

Please note, this is a deodorant powder not an antiperspirant. This mix is suitable for those of you who are allergic to store bought deodorants and/or antiperspirants because of the all-natural ingredients. When the body is properly hydrated (6-8 glasses of water daily), most people do not perspire enough to warrant an underarm antiperspirant, as your body is better able to regulate body temperature and eliminate toxins through other normal functions, rather than sweat. (For more herbal and natural recipes, go to betweenclosefriends.com blog)

4 oz talcum powder

2 ozs cornstarch

1 oz baking soda

3 drops of your favorite scent (optional)

1. Combine all ingredients, and mix well.
2. Place the powder in a shaker container.
3. Use as needed.

Basic Body Powder

8 oz arrowroot or cornstarch, or a blend of both

4 oz baking soda

For a pleasing scent and a deodorizing effect, add one of the following variations:

— 1 T each powdered clove, ground slippery elm, powdered mace, ground sandalwood, ground vetiver root

— 1 T each: powdered clove, ground slippery elm, ground dried orange peel, ground dried lemon peel

— 1 T each: powdered clove, ground slippery elm, ground dried rose petals, ground dried lavender

1. Blend together the arrowroot/cornstarch, baking soda and your choice of scent variation in a medium glass or ceramic bowl, mixing thoroughly.
2. Pour and store your body powder in a large covered glass jar.
3. Allow 2 weeks for the scents to blend together.
4. Shake the jar well every other day to thoroughly blend your chosen scent.
5. Use as you would any store bought body powder: either apply to your body with a body puff, or use it in a shaker.

Foot Powder Deodorant

With the rainy season comes the inevitable wet and irritated feet, often causing unwanted foot order. This simple to make recipe for  a foot power is most effective and soothing. Less expensive than store-bought, and it doesn’t contain any harsh chemicals that some commercial blends do. As momma always said, Natural is best!

2 oz cornstarch

4 oz unscented talcum powder

1 oz baking soda

1 tsp powdered orrisroot

3 drops of your favorite scent (optional)

1. Combine all ingredients, mixing together thoroughly
2. You can use this foot powder applied in your shoes, or directly on your feet to help keep any unwanted foot odor at bay.

For a persistent or very strong foot odor, another effective remedy is to make a strong tea bath for you feet. Using a regular blend of tea, steep 3-4 six-cup tea bags in 1/2 gallon of boiling water. When cooled, pour into a foot bath container and soak your feet for 10-15 minutes. Rinse, dry thoroughly and apply a light dusting of the above foot powder.