Recently I decided to start experimenting and make my own beauty products. There are lots of reasons for making your own products. First and foremost, you know every ingredient included in the product which also means you can customize it to your needs. It’s safer for your body. It costs way less money and of course, it’s better for the environment. I also found out that making my own products was a lot of FUN! I felt like a kid again, playing scientist and mixing up my own secret concoctions. Well, today, I’m sharing my ‘not-so-secret’ recipe for Charcoal Toothpaste.
My main reason for making my own toothpaste was because I wanted whiter teeth but also did not want to break the bank paying for it or sit for 20 minutes a day with those strips in my mouth! The first thing I did was research teeth whitening products and the active ingredients in most toothpaste. I quickly discovered that most whitening products use bleach and other harmful chemicals. Hydrogen peroxide is a natural bleaching agent that also kills bacteria, thus the reason many of us may use it to disinfect wounds. After using my toothpaste for several weeks, I also noticed I no longer experienced sensitivity in my teeth, another added benefit!
A few reasons I chose the other ingredients in this recipe:
- Aloe vera gel reduces gum recession by restoring the texture of gum tissue.
- Baking soda alkalizes acid in the mouth and helps to remove plaque and stains.
- Activated charcoal powder is used as an abrasive along with baking soda and helps to bind the toxins and remove them from your mouth.
- Adding the coconut oil helps purify the mouth and allows you to practice oil pulling which helps draw out impurities and helps with gum health as well.
WARNINGS:
Do not swallow this toothpaste. It is usually recommended that you use it 2-3x per week due to the potent detoxifying effects, however, I use it daily and have not had any negative side effects.
The activated charcoal will turn your sink black so be careful.
I would avoid spitting in the sink as the coconut oil could eventually clog your pipes. Brush your teeth and spit the remaining liquid into a trash can.
Ingredients:
½ tsp Activated charcoal
2 TBSP Baking soda
2 TBSP Cold-pressed organic coconut oil
2 drops Therapeutic grade peppermint or spearmint essential oil
1 TBSP Aloe vera gel (certified organic recommended)
1 TBSP Hydrogen peroxide
Directions:
Warm the coconut oil in the microwave (or double boiler) for a few seconds to allow it to melt. Combine all ingredients and gently mix. Place in a glass mason jar until ready to use.
Brush!
*Disclaimer Delaware Moms is not responsible for any health claims made or negative experiences from DIY Recipes.*