Lemon as a deodorant--Who knew?

[Missy Willis]

Body odor happens. We've all been subjected to it at one point or another. Sometimes without a care, others with a whole lot of worry---company party, first time meeting boyfriend's parents, at a play group with moms you've never met before. And when it hits, there's no stopping it. So, what's a natural gal (or guy) to do?

Squeeze a lemon.

After you make that tasty pitcher of refreshing lemonade, don't toss the lemon to the compost just yet. Take a slice and dab it under your arms. This will cut down on the odor caused by perspiration. Sure, you may feel a little strange at first doing this, I mean you are rubbing a lemon under your pits, but it really works! And this is so much better for your body (and the environment). Store bought deodorants can contain many harsh chemicals and anti-perspirants have been identified as causing cancerous growths. Using what nature provides is generally the safest and cheapest route to go.

So why do lemons work? Bacteria multiply rapidly in places where you sweat and since there are lots of sweat glands under your arms, this is an area that can turn smelly fast. Bacteria don't thrive in acidic environments typically and with lemons being acidic, this cuts down on the growth and therefore the smell.

Now you can toss that lemon slice into the compost and on your next run to the grocery store, more lemons into your cart.

Happy Smells!

Missy