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Making homemade toothpaste
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We made our own toothpaste!!! It was fun, easy, frugal, and tasty! I'm totally hooked.
I have been wanting to make some more natural toothpaste, but all of the recipes I had seen online called for glycerin or other ingredients that I didn't have on hand. When I came across Julie's post about making toothpaste, I was excited!
Here is how I made my homemade toothpaste:
2 tablespoons coconut oil
3 tablespoons baking soda
1/2 small packet of stevia powder
20-25 drops of peppermint oil*
1. Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl, using a fork.
*Add about half of the amount of peppermint oil to start, and test the toothpaste to see how much you want/like. I used NOW brand peppermint oil, and ended up stopping at 25 drops which is still not as strong as I am used to, though it does taste nice and minty! Julie noted in her instructions that using part spearmint oil will make the toothpaste not as "hot" as using all peppermint oil.
I also made a cinnamon variation. Instead of using peppermint oil, I added a teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a few drops of clove oil. This did turn out a little bit hot for the children, and I'm not sure if I like the ground cinnamon the paste -- cinnamon oil might be a better choice, but I don't own any. :)
This toothpaste recipe is very easy to experiment with as far as flavoring, and I'm thinking of making up some with cayenne pepper in it, which is supposed to be good for the gums!
This is what the finished toothpaste looks like:
The peppermint one is snowy-white! It looks and feels (to the fingers) just like store-bought toothpaste. The coconut oil is really a fabulous base for the toothpaste.
It tastes good, too. The stevia gives a sweet taste (which most toothpastes have). The baking soda taste isn't over-powering, but it is there -- and the toothpaste definitely works well! It doesn't foam, of course, but I actually like it that way.
Since coconut oil melts at 76 degrees, the toothpaste becomes liquid when you brush, and coats the teeth well. The oil is very runny, though, and doesn't leave the mouth feeling greasy in the least. It will, however, stick to your bathroom sink if you use cold water to rinse. I definitely recommend using warm water with this toothpaste! (It was only when I used the cinnamon one that I saw where the toothpaste actually ended up/stayed!)
Our bathroom toothpastes: Containers of homemade, and a half-tube of fluoride-free Nature's Gate. The Nature's Gate is rather hot-tasting, so I may finish that one for the children. ;) And, I won't be buying more! :)
Since the homemade toothpaste was so inexpensive to make, I won't have to watch quite so closely when they brush, to make sure they only use a small amount. (I usually brush their teeth at night, and they brush themselves during the day.)
And what's even better? This homemade toothpaste made me decide to just toss the rest my free-after-rebate tube from Rite-Aid which I had been using for myself. I never had been comfortable with the ingredients, but it was free and it was what I had...
I welcome comments on the toothpaste topic, but I won't publish comments seeking to debate fluoride use. Thanks. :)
Disclaimer: I have not used this toothpaste extensively. (I will update here when I have!) I am fairly certain that this toothpaste is safe and will not harm your teeth. There are no studies or statistics comparing it to commercial toothpaste, so I am not out to "prove" its effectiveness in any way. This recipe and information is provided for those who want it and I make no claims about its long-term use. I'm still studying and learning about dental care! :)
Edited to add (3 years later): I'm still learning about teeth! :) Some sources say baking soda is all right in toothpaste, so long as brushing is gentle. Others say it is not okay.
I've been using xylitol, and even flavoring my own granulated xylitol with orange or peppermint oil rather than buying the expensive mints and gums.
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Comments
Shelf-life and stability
This looks awesome! I am using Tom's natural toothpaste now, with an electric Oral-B toothbrush, but it's rather expensive and the metal tube drives me crazy. How long is your homemade toothpaste safe to last? Also, do you keep it in the bathroom or the fridge?
Storage of homemade toothpaste
It's kept in the bathroom, not in the fridge -- I'm guessing that if the coconut oil were refrigerated it would make the toothpaste rock-hard! :)
I'm not sure about shelf-life. My guess is "a long time" (maybe several months?). I guess I can update if mine goes bad or something!
It is very simple to make (takes about 5 minutes, seriously!) so I will probably not keep more than a few months' supply on hand, though I am curious as to just how long it will last! :)
toothpaste
i am doing a science fair project and am using your recipe to help. could peppermint flavoring substitute for the peppermint oil?
toms toothpaste
I have been using toms toothpaste for awhile, liked the way it works but reading the lable it istn much different than the other regular pastes out there, and it cost alot more, I may be trying the homemade stuff myself...thanks for the recipie!!
I would htink you could keep that toothpaste in your bathroom, we use coconut oil all the time for dry skin etc, and keep it in the bathroom, doesnt seem there is anything in it that would actually spoil????
Hey, that is cool! I might
Hey, that is cool! I might try that only I might see if I can use xylitol since that is supposed to be good for teeth.
toothpaste
I guess Ill stick with what I always use, but that peppermint variety you made actually sound good enough to eat. now, if you figured out a recipie for homeade cocnut toothpaste Id give it a go!(I love coconut) cayenne pepper in toothpaste YOWEEEE!! I dont even cook with that.
Coconut toothpaste
Well, you could add coconut extract and leave out the peppermint oil! :D
Baking soda amount
Hi there,
I am a regular reader of your blog and find it very inspiring, God bless you Tammy!
I find this home made toothpaste idea really interesting but I am a bit concerned about the amount of baking soda you put into it. I've heard that baking soda may damage enamel as it works as a scrub to take the plaque off the teeth. Therefore companies producing pastes only put a small amount of it in their pastes plus foaming substance to lessen that scrubing effect even more. I hope you don't mind me asking...
~Emily.
Baking soda in tooth pastes
I have done some reading on the use of baking soda in tooth paste/powder and couldn't find substantial evidence that it is too abrasive to be used. I always thought the Sodium Laural Sulfate, which makes things foam, was there just because people "expect" foam... although SLS isn't supposedly very good for you, either... However, I happen to be going to the dentist in 2 days and I can ask him about baking soda on teeth! :D
Let me know what you find
Let me know what you find out about the baking soda. Mom said she's read the same thing. I thought the important thing was to make sure the baking soda was completely rinsed out of your mouth. Whatever the case, I think the homemade toothpaste would be better. :)
A fun experiment!
Thanks for posting that, Tammy! I'd followed the link you posted the other day and told all my family about the homemade toothpaste recipe. :) Now I just need to pick up some essential oils so that I can make my own as well! I will be searching garage sales or the dollar store for some small containers to put it in, too.
Thanks!! :)
Essential oils
Vicky, I especially like peppermint oil as it is SO versatile and is my most-used oil -- so if you buy some, there are many more uses than just this tooth paste! :D
Toothpaste
That looks really good. I don't use any toothpaste at all, but I may make this for my husband, who buys whatever is on sale and I really don't like what he is putting in his mouth. Do you dip the toothbrush in or put it on the toothbrush with your finger? I would think that the toothpaste would get contaminated after a while of dipping the toothbrush in it. Or maybe it could be put in very, very small containers, so that you have to use a new one every week or something... hmmm... Well, thanks a lot for the link and recipe.
:-D
For the lady, above, who wanted coconut toothpaste: if you use virgin coconut oil, it will taste like coconut. If you use refined coconut oil, it will not. Also, virgin coconut oil is VERY good for you. Refined coconut oil is good for you, too, but virgin is better and it has that coconut smell and flavor.
:-D
Now to get my husband off head and shoulders shampoo. YUCK! ;-)
Coconut oil
I have read that coconut oil is naturally anti-bacterial and anti-fungal, so dipping a toothbrush in it shouldn't be a problem. I did put my toothpaste in small containers, though -- about 2 ounces.
Head and Shoulders Shampoo
I've read in many articles that you can use tea tree based shampoos instead of Head and Shoulders and it will actually fix what's causing the dry skin/dandruff instead of just masking the problem. We use Giovanni brand through VitaCost.com and really like the results. Shipping is inexpensive too!
P.S.
P.S. What does half a packet of stevia equal in sugar. I have liquid stevia and if I know what the equivalent is to sugar, I can figure out how much liquid to use. Thanks!
Stevia and sugar equivalents
Oh, I don't know... I used Sweet Leaf stevia which has inulin added (since that was all I had on hand right now) and the box doesn't tell the equivalents... you may have to do some taste-testing with your liquid stevia...
stevia conversions
Stevia conversions
another thing to add to my list!
Alright Tammy, I make my own detergent, shampoo, and now I so need to do this!
But now the question is where in the world can I get coconut oil? I've been looking everywhere in most basic stores, but I can't find it. Where did you get yours? You live kinda near me, so maybe I can get it at the same place. Spill the beans! ;)
Coconut oil source
Wal-mart, in the oil section, top shelf. I'm still on my first tub, so I haven't looked for other sources... :)
CO
I've heard on Super Wal*mart's have CO.
I have those same little containers Tammy! Mine have a darker blue top tho. So useful for so many things. I didn't think so at the time I bought them.
~Jules (yes, eventually I'll sign in lol)
use VCO, its better
Normal cheapo coconut oil is bleached and fragranced with chemically thingybobs, which drains a lot of it's goodness.
Virgin Coconut Oil though is simply seperated out from the coconut milk (which is not the sweet watery stuff, it is squeezed from grated coconut flesh) and it is one hundred percent natural. If it has anything else in the ingredients list it isn't VCO.
However don't be fooled by the phrase "Extra Virgin Coconut oil" because that doesn't exist. Extra virgin is a term applied to olive oil only. It is sometimes used for coconut oil because it sounds better, but it is no better and worth no more of your money.
The oil I buy locally is from elfoods. it is a good price.
I found virgin coconut oil
I found virgin coconut oil at whole foods they have several brands I paid $7. I use it in my hair and on my skin.
Homemade toothpaste
Tammy, I enjoy reading your blog for ideas. . . making hm toothpaste-how much did it cost to make and how much did each batch make? (example: $1 to make 6 oz). I buy toothpaste at the discount grocer, and use $1 off cpns, often it is free or close to it for me, certainly less than $1/tube. With 6 people here, we go thru a considerable amount. I was surprised that you chose to toss the remainder of the Rite Aid (?) toothpaste; your blog shows that you are a resourceful, thrifty person-waste not want not, no? While I understand your preferences surrounding toothpaste, I would have used the remainder of the RZ toothpaste up first. JMO
Cost of making toothpaste
My batch of toothpaste made about 2 ounces and cost... pennies. I'm guessing maybe 10 cents or so? :)
We are usually able to get toothpaste for free (after rebate, so we just pay tax) from Rite Aid here, but often the toothpastes contain ingredients that I really don't like putting in my mouth -- like Triclosan, for example! If I hadn't already used from that tube, I would have given it away rather than throwing it away. :)
ahhh....
Maybe that's my problem...I didn't look UP at Walmart. hehe...well, next trip, I will see! Thanks Tammy!
stevia
Stevia has also been shown to be an anticavity agent. Just in case someone wasn't aware
toothpaste
That is so AWESOME. I love it. I will have to try.
I haven't studied up on
I haven't studied up on this, but to the commenter who wanted to use xylitol instead of stevia, I will caution you too research it more because I've heard that it's poisonous to dogs. Makes you wonder if you really want to be putting that in your mouth! ;-)
Poisonous to dogs
So is chocolate... ;)
I have no intention of
I have no intention of brushing any dog's teeth, thank goodness.:-P
(FYI, I have read about it. The danger for dog's, if I remember correctly, is that it causes a fast release of insulin. Whereas for humans xylitol is an insulin stabilizer. So pretty much the opposite effect.)
Toothpaste for dogs
I have no intention of brushing any dog's teeth, thank goodness. :-P
LOL!! :)
Just wondering...
Tammy,
I was just wondering if you would mind if I reprinted this recipe in my newsletter, the Rosebud Newsletter? I have a small column in it for future keepers-at-home and I thought this might be a good addition. :)
Please let me know!
Catherine Perrine
GodsRosebud_1989 at yahoo.com
I saw this recipe last week
I saw this recipe last week at Old Paths and vowed then and there to make it. Now seeing your try at it makes me want to make it more! I love the idea of adding different "flavors"! I want to try the mint one and the cinnamon, but wouldn't it be fun to do some sort of berry flavor or something for the kids! I'm going to make it this weekend...you've made up my mind! LOL!
Stevia and dental health
This is an interesting idea- stevia as a sweetner in Toothpaste... So as the dental hygienist I had to look into it...
http://www.raintreenutrition.com/stevia.htm
That is what I found...
I was just wondering of the cavity factor- and it turns out stevia is non-cariogenic ( not cavity causing) probably because it has a high content of fluoride.
Xylitol ( another sweetner) is actually anti-cariogenic and can prevent cavities. It can be easily found in gum these days, they advertise it largely if it is an ingredient. I doubt it can be purchased alone though.
Heather, RDH
Very Interesting!
Thanks for your input Heather!
I didn't know that Stevia had flouride in it. I'm going to do a little more research on that.
Xylitol can be purchased by the pound in granules (like regular sugar) in a health food store. They also sell single serving packets.
-Gwen
If evolution really works, how come mothers only have two hands? –Milton Berle
Yes, you can purchase
Yes, you can purchase xylitol as is.
Safety of baking soda use for teeth
Okay, I was able to ask both a dentist (in OH) and a dental hygienist (in WI) about the use of baking soda on teeth. The same answer I got from both:
Baking soda is NOT too abrasive to be used on teeth. However, brushing too vigorously, particularly brushing horizontally is too harsh on the teeth and gums. So whether you're brushing with baking soda or regular toothpaste, the important thing is to brush in little circles and not just horizontally.
Check this out too...
I was surfing for a different recipe for toothpaste and this one looks great.
In reading your comments, I really thought your 'community' would like knowing about westonaprice.org. I'm feel like I'm just at the beginning of learning and applying so much, and really want to share this great new source of knowledge! It gives such complete information on so many areas of nutrition that I felt was lacking or contradictory.
Weston A Price was actually a Dentist in the 1930s when his curiosity sent him off to learn more.
And by the way a great source for coconut oil is Tropical Traditions; regardless of source, expeller pressed is a great type to look for.
I am wondering how your
I am wondering how your toothpaste has worked out thus far :D
~~~~
http://lilirishlass.blogspot.com
Homemade toothpaste
Let's see... it's been over a month now... my first batch is almost gone and I'm going to make more peppermint toothpaste this week. :)
I really like the toothpaste, and use it for the children too (that way it's not dangerous if they swallow a little bit... as toddlers do!).
I'm still doing some study about dental care, and may in the future add some beneficial ingredients to the homemade toothpaste. :)
Inexpensive Essential Oils?
I'm enjoying your blog. I've been wanting to try my hand at making homemade toothpaste.
We do not have a Super Walmart in our area. Do you think it would be cost effective to purchase coconut oil from the health food store?
Also, I'm needing to find an inexpensive resource for essential oils. I have a bottle of eucalyptus I use in my floor cleaner and one bottle of lavendar that I use in my skin lotion. I'll be needing to replace them soon.
I made a skin lotion last year and my husband loves it. I have a great book called The Complete book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy. I hope to make a face lotion someday.
Blessings,
Georgene
http://awomanthatfearsthelord.com
http://www.xanga.com/georgene
Inexpensive Essential Oils?
I've enjoyed your blog.
I was wondering if you knew of an inexpensive essential oil resource?
We do not have a Super Walmart nearby so I wondered if it would be cost effective if I purchased my coconut oil from a local health food store?
I made a skin lotion last year and my husband loves it. I have a great book called The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy. I hope to make a face lotion someday. Toothpaste is next on my list. :-)
Blessings,
Georgene
http://awomanthatfearsthelord.com
http://www.xanga.com/georgene
Thanks, Georgene! :) I think
Thanks, Georgene! :)
I think a gallon of coconut oil (128 oz, cold pressed virgin oil) runs about $36-40 or so. The toothpaste goes pretty far... I haven't really figured the costs to the penny, since I was just using small amounts of ingredients I already had on hand!
I have in the past bought NOW brand essential oils at a health food store. Some natural food co-ops offer them, as well. And perhaps bulk food stores? :) I haven't looked online for good prices...
Coconut Oil
The best price for coconut oil that I've been able to find is www.mountainroseherbs.com
Even with shipping I can't find it cheaper anywhere else!
Love your blog, Tammy, and thanks for the toothpaste recipe! Going to make it right now : )
Shelley R.
Apologies
I am SO sorry for the multiple posts! It didn't look like they were showing up so I'd try again AND again! I was shocked to see all my posts when I came back to visit today!
Again, I apologize! :(
Thanks for the info. I'm hoping to try this recipe soon!
Blessings,
Georgene
http://awomanthatfearsthelord.com
http://www.xanga.com/georgene
storeage container for toothpaste
Hi,
I have made homemade toothpaste and love it though I found for children getting it out of the container more difficult.
To solve the problem, I put the toothpaste in a zip lock baggie and pricked a small hole in one corner and zipped up the bag. Now the children can squeeze the toothpaste on their brushes just like frosting. It works great and no mess!
Ruhamah
storing toothpaste in ziploc
I like your idea, but what do you do with the pricked end to close that back up? Do you also make sure your toothpaste isn't too runny to come out too quickly? I have 4 & 6 year olds so I'm trying to come up with an easy way to apply it.
Thanks,
Cindy
Toothpaste Delivery System
For all those wondering about getting the toothpaste onto the brush, how about these: http://store.everestgear.com/159204.html
You can get them from any camping store!
toothpaste
Dear Tammy,
Though I enjoyed your post about toothpaste, and will likely make this myself, I wanted to let you know that toothpaste is actually not even necessary for brushing teeth properly. All you need is a good soft bristled brush, water and lots of gentle scrubbing action. I used to work for a dentist who told me toothpaste is entirely psychological (people like the clean feel of mint). We prefer to use it here, but just as f.y.i. since you are a fan of the simple life as we are.
Kendra
You Said It!
I was going to post this, once I finished reading all the comments. My Hygienist told me (when I asked her the best toothpaste to use) that I did not need to use toothpaste at all. It was the proper brushing/flossing that keeps your teeth healthy! Who knew? Crazy retailers trying to make an extra buck!!
Thanks for the recipe, gonna head out tomorrow to find some Peppermint Oil. Would like to try Cinnamon for myself... :)
Runny tooth paste and zip lock bags
We never had a problem with homemade toothpaste coming out of the end, just add more baking soda to it while in the zip lock bag and squish until well mixed.
Ruhamah
stevia leaves
as far as using stevia in h.m. tothpaste, what about using ground stevia leaves? i have a stevia plant in my garden that i'm constantly on the lookout for using. i'm just wondering how much you'd use to give it a little sweetness, nothing too much though.
Toothpaste
Love this recipe for toothpaste .... I think I'm going to love to try it.....
Also love ordering from mountainroseherbs...... I had some all natural toothpaste and in the ingredience it had astragulas root powder, myrrh powder, stevia.... burbock root powder.... I think I'm going to try to make it and add some herbs too......
thanks.... love this recipe.... Anyone tried making Whipped shea body butter.... or facial scrubs using shea butter? Also salt scrubs?.....
God Bless
Debbie
SO salty!
Hi! I made this toothpaste and it is wonderful for making your mouth feel clean and refreshed, but WOW is it ever salty!!! How do you get your kids to brush with it? I followed the recipe and the saltiness was overwhelming. So I added more peppermint oil and more sweetener. It was a little better, but still super salty. My husband tried it once and made an aweful face. Any advice? Did I do something wrong? Do you just have to get used to the saltiness?
What a Great Idea!
I LOVE this idea! My grandmother used to use a baking soda and salt combo. When my sister and I were young, my mom did the same thing for us. We would dip our wet toothbrushes in a custard cup of the mixture and it would stick right on the bristles. We didn't mind, although it did have a "chalky" taste/texture.(by the way, neither my sister or I have ever had a cavity)
This recipe sounds great though. It sounds like it makes "store-bought" quality toothpaste! I'll definately try it when I get an essential oil-I've got every thing else in the cupboards. Sure beats paying the money for "healthy" toothpaste, when I can make it at home with stuff I've got!
Toothpaste container
I am going to make some of this for my 6 yo and use a different flavoring because he does not like 'hot' toothpaste...i.e. peppermint or spearamint. I am going to store them in the small decorater icing containers. They look like the small version of the ketchup picnic bottles.
http://www.pamspride.blogspot.com
Making homemade toothpaste
Does this actually work. I mean, is it as good as other toothpastes? Also, is it "hot" because I really hate "hot" toothpastes?
toothpaste recipe
Hi!!
Great recipe!! This will be on our "to do" list this year, as we continue to cut our expenses. Ive never made toothpaste before, I think the kids will love this great science experiment.
I am on the Guaifenesin Protocol (heard of it?) and need to stay away from alot stuff so my meds work correctly, not an easy task. Toothpaste alone cost me $7.99 a tube, plus shipping (Im in HI)
Thanks again for the recipe!!
brushing your dog teeth
I think homemade tooth paste is a good idea, I make it for my dogs, because it's hard to find here in MX and expensive. I seen the comment someone put about not brushing any dogs teeth and it made me sad to think they wouldn't cosder thier dog health. If your dog has Bad Doggis Breath and/or stained teeth you need to brush them 1 to 2 times a week, if you don't it could lead to major health problems and LARGE VET BILLS.If a dog is taken to a vet for teeth cleaning they have to be put to sleep,etc. and this also adds stress to your pet. For good homemade Dog toothpaste mix------------- 6 tsp.Baking soda,1/3 tsp.salt, 4 tsp. glycerin and 2tsp.low-sodium beef broth or peppemint extract. my dogs love the beef flavor, keep in frig.
receipe for dog toothpaste
I was surfing the internet and found your receipe for dog toothpaste.I am anxious to try it.My question: How long can the toothpaste be stored in the fridge? Thanking you.
On the container idea.Has
On the container idea.Has anyone thought of using a large syringe like for horses?My girlfriend uses these at work to store medicines for animals.Just dont use needles and they suck up and dispense paste really well.
http://www.tractorsupply.com/wcsstore/ConsumerDirectStorefrontAssetStore/images/products/150/2281327.jpg
even better one here
http://plaspakinc.com/veterinary_medical_syringes.htm
How much powder is 1/2 a packet of stevia?
I have a container of powdered stevia, not packets. How many teaspoons is one packet, do you think?
hello
do u have 2 use the coconut oil as a base? my email is cheryl2212001@yahoo.com thanx :)
I made my first batch of
I made my first batch of toothpaste this weekend and it turned out pretty good. I made the cinnamon one and i really like the way it taste. It looks like i wont be buting any more store bought toothpaste i think im sold on making my own.
Xylitol and a useful toothpaste container
This is all very helpful, as I am making my own toothpaste right now, out of necessity. My daughter and I have narrowed down severe gastrointestinal troubles which only happen right after tooth brushing, or just after chewing sugar-free gum to the alcohol based sugars (xylitol, malitol, etc., etc. in toothpastes. I decided to try making my own. I also have issues with aspartame (no diet colas, flavored waters, etc for me!), saccharin and nutrasweet. So this is just a word to the wise, be careful of using xylitol. It is proven to be effective at reducing cavities, but I'd rather go without, and just brush carefully. I also read that unsweetened cranberry juice is very effective as a mouthwash, so I might try that also.
Oh, and as for the container? I'm using a 3 oz squeeze travel bottle, found in any chain drug store/pharmacy in the hair accessories aisle.
container
In my search for toothpaste recipes I read one lady's suggestion of using a new bathroom soap dispenser, well contained and easy to apply to the brush :)
great idea
i'm going to add that to my shopping list!
thanks for sharing your recipe!
I have been looking for a recipe for homemade toothpaste and I am very excited to try this one! It looks great and I love the ingredients! Thanks for sharing the recipe!
I've read several studies on
I've read several studies on xylitol. it is actually pretty amazing stuff! and great for your teeth. yes not good for dogs. I will be making ours with xylitol for the kids. I was looking for the kids. we get our toothpaste through Natures Sunshine it is called xylibright and we love it. if you aren't using floride which we don't i reccomend using xylitol as your sweetner in your toothpaste. so, I'm going to try to make some for my kids that isn't "hot" thanks so much for your post! :)
xylitol can have an effect on your gastrointestinal track but it is because you have to get used to it. it is pretty amazing, it doesn't only serve as an antibacterial also been found to aid in stronger bones because it allows calcium to be absorbs differently than your body absorbs it with vitamin D. it also has been found to prevent colds in children ie, ear infections, head colds, runny noses.
I actually did a research paper on it and researched it to death. I'd say people might want to do their full reserch before just saying what you've heard.
Thanks so much for the recipe! :) I'll be making some today!! :) I'm going to new seasons for coconut oil.
hmm.........
is stevia liquid okay......? or must i use the powder.....?
cant wait to try this
cant wait to try this toothpaste i like the idea that it is sweetned with stevia i just started using stevia and i think it is the best
this sound like a great idea
this sound like a great idea and it looks like it is pretty inexpensive to make i will give it a try
our homemade cherry toothpaste ^_^
I have been researching homemade dentifrices and the harmful chemicals used in drugstore toothpastes. After reading a lot of recipes, I made a first attempt at creating our own homemade toothpaste tonight, just with ingredients I already had on hand in my pantry. Here is what I used:
about 1/4 c. baking powder (accidentally used baking powder, oops! still turned out fine, but will use baking soda next time so it doesn't have the metallic aftertaste of the tartaric acid)
about 1/4 tsp. of kosher salt (I hear sea salt is also good, but I might either up the amount of baking soda or half the amount of salt next time)
three packets of Truvia (although I'd like to try to find some xylitol next time I'm at the health food store!)
about 10 drops of cherry flavoring (from the baking aisle, leftover from some cupcakes or something)
a couple drops of water to smooth it all out (although I'd like to maybe try liquid vegetal glycerin if I can find some at the drugstore, or might just order it online)
That's it! The flavor wasn't too shabby for a first attempt (despite the baking powder instead of baking soda) but will try some different things next time. It was VERY effective - my teeth felt squeaky clean long after I brushed and they were noticeably whiter after just one brushing - AMAZING! I couldn't believe it and I'm really excited about seeing what the long-term effects will be (hopefully fewer canker sores for me & my daughter!) and about trying more variations including xylitol and/or glycerin and trying different flavorings (I've read lots of suggestions online including cinnamon, clove, peppermint, wintergreen, and mandarin orange. I am thinking almond would be delish!) ^_~
Love reading other people's suggestions... thanks!
Homemade toothpaste flavors
I noticed there were a lot of baking flavors clearanced at the grocery store from Christmas a few days ago and everyone may be able to get some fun flavors for next to nothing if you are using those kinds of flavorings for your toothpaste. I didn't pick any up when I saw them and now wish I had, especially after reading the cherry toothpaste post!
Never thought about making
Never thought about making my own toothpaste. I think i will give it a try.
homemade toothpaste - aluminum-free baking soda?
Hi,
Does anyone know about aluminum-free baking soda? Apparently, there is baking soda that is 'natural' and some that is not so naturally-derived, but uses chemicals to extract. Didn't want to use the kind with aluminum as that builds up quickly in your body and can cause alzheimers, ADHD, etc.
Thanks,
Tricia
Thanks
Thanks for the recipe...looking forward to trying it!!
I made the toothpaste last
I made the toothpaste last week and it turned out pretty good. The only thing i would do different next time is to add more cinnamon
for kids
I was concerned about a neat container for my son so I used a well washed tiny dish soap container left over from camping.
At T@rget I saw a cute little travel bottle for like $1.25 it had a flat top for storing upside down.
I also followed advice from another site and bought a new soap dispenser on clearance. The best part is the wide opening, no funnel required, no cross contamination from fingers and tooth brushes, and if the pump gets clogged I can still get it out of the bottle.
facial lotion
someone mentioned facial lotion. Does anyone have a recipe for a lotion to make for mostly oily skin. My skin is always oily. Love the toothpaste recipe. Saves me from having to buy Tom's. Thanks a lot!
Lynn
Glycerin vs. Stevia
I've seen other recipes with glycerin instead of Stevia...what's better??
facial lotion
I am new to this site... love the toothpaste recipe. I have been using straight baking soda for some time now, but I find it does irritate my gums, so I need to add the baking soda to something else.
Re: facial lotion. I have had nothing but problems with the skin on my face all my life. I continued to have breakouts into my 30s. Then a lady at a conference (who looked incredibly young for her age) told me how she moisturizes and my skin has been perfect since I tried it... just the occasional monthly blemish.
After washing my face I use witch hazel on a cotton ball as an astringent. Then I smooth on plain jojoba oil from the health food store. I blot off any excess oil with a couple of squares of TP, and that's it. I thought it would make my skin oily, but it has evened out both oily and dry spots. I will never use lotion again!
great post
Hi there, I am so into making homemade laundry detergent, soaps, lotions, and other household and bodycare items. Toothpaste was next on my list! :) Just as some input, my hubby has very painful gums and major tooth problems from not taking care of them as he should of when younger. I am going to make him a batch with a bit of Myrrh and Clove EO's in it for the antiseptic and anesthetic properties. You can also put a few drops of EO;s in distilled water for a cleansing chemical free mouth rinse. Tea tree and pepperming are great for bad breath. Lots of nice info! Thanks for posting.
BTW - I order from newdirectionsaromatics.com for most of my supplies. You can get 33 oz of coconut oil for 5 dollars or so. They really are awesome wholesalers of natural supplies.
Xilytol
Hello! Thank you so much for this recipe. It is wonderful! I made it but used 1 Tbsp of Xilytol (which I bought in powder form at my local Whole Foods) and 40 drops of Strawberry Flavoring. It almost tasted like the Toms of Maine Silly Strawberry that my children LOVE! I also added about 10 drops of spearmint oil. It was wonderful. Thank you very much for sharing this great recipe!
Brenda
THANKS
Tammy,
Thank you so much for this homemade recipe. I moved to a small town in Panama and have a hard time finding all natural things here, it's nearly impossible. Thankfully most everything I need is grown here, but I was concerned about getting toothpaste. I'm going to try this recipe right now. Thanks again!!
Katie
http://yoguini.com/
2 years no cavities!
Tammy,
Just wanted to say I have been using a homemade toothpaste recipe similar to yours.
I cup coconut oil
1/4 cup zylitol
20 drops peppermint oil
I used to have very sensitive teeth and at least one cavity each year. I have been using this formula for 2 years and have no cavities and no more sensitive teeth.
Shena
probiotics in toothpaste
You can add some grapefruit seed extract or tea tree oil to make it antibacterial. The baking soda works as a good detifrice, the olive oil helps to smooth and sooth the teeth and gums (and gives your teeth a polished feeling when done, instead of a rough feeling when using baking soda alone, plus olive oil contains chemicals which are antifungal/antibacterial, too). However, adding in like 10 drops of grapefruit seed extract can help kill off plaque causing germs.
Or, you can try a different route. You can add probiotics to your toothpaste. Yes, add friendly bacteria to your toothpaste. If you think of your mouth as a farm field, it will eventually grow something in it. Usually, this is bad bacteria, which feeds off the sugars & starches we eat. However, brushing your teeth sort of "weeds" the field. But, when you leave an empty field alone, weeds will grow back in it unless you plant something of your own. So, you can add probiotics to your toothpaste. That way when you brush, you eliminate bad bacteria, and plant good ones at the same time. You can buy capsule powerded probiotics that don't need to be refrigerated at health food stores (heck, I've even seen them at Wal-Mart). Just empty a few caps into your toothpaste, and enjoy.
trying to make it taste good
So I've now made 5 different batches of the toothpaste and it tastes gross. I cut back on the amount of baking soda and it's still too salty.. and too coconutty.. and I added 40+ drops of essential oils and still can't get it to taste good. I tried cinnamon too and I've added ALOT and it doesn't taste like cinnamon. I'm stumped. Is there something else I can use as a base? What about something besides baking soda too since it's so salty and I've read online that it can be harmful. I've tried finding other recipes but nothing that stands out.
Peppermint Oil
Okay, I can't decide...are we talking about peppermint extract (like in the baking isle) or pepperming essential oil?
Peppermint essential oil
Peppermint essential oil (not extract). :)
No peppermint?
Is the peppermint merely for taste? If we don't my the taste of the paste, can the peppermint be omitted? What about the stevia? Is that also just for taste?
rancidity?
Is there any issue with rancidity of the coconut oil? This youtube version http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ct7qhnPQ2Gg doesn't seem to use any, and it strikes me as a good question- coconut oil (as will any full fats) tend to go rancid through air exposure as well as light. Have you had any issues with this?
Yay!
Now I'm inspired to make my own toothpaste. Thanks:)
-Jill
rancidity
I believe (but need to research more) that the shelf life of coconut oil is at least 5 years. It is an extremely stable oil, it can be heated to very high temperatures for cooking purposes without deteriorating and it does not go rancid very easily. That's why it is such a healthy oil to add to your diet.
Silvia
Stevia...
I just started making my own toothpaste, and for those who say that the baking soda is too salty, I agree. So, I add a LOT more stevia, and it works out great! The recipe I made last was 1/2 c. baking soda, and I put 14 heaping scoops (about a full teaspoon) of stevia extract into it. Keep working with it, adding stevia until it tastes right for you. My 3 and 4 year olds love this toothpaste!
Toothpaste
I love that you can make your own toothpaste...wish I was that motivated. My only suggestion/concern is how do you apply to your brush? I am concerned with cross contamination from family members sharing same container. Also, if toothbrush is inserted into paste the bacteria from saliva will begin to breakdown the paste. This is also a concern with family members sharing a tube of toothpaste. (My family members all have their own tube of paste-no sharing. EVER. )
Facial Cleanser
I have been using a mixture of sunflower oil and castor oil to cleanse my face. The idea came from http://www.theoilcleansingmethod.com .
I have found this to be a wonderful cleanser. I use a 2oz plastic bottles and fill it about 1/4 full with castor oil and 3/4 with sunflower oil. This ratio is based on my balanced but slightly dry skin. Its important to find the ratio that works best for your skin. I use it every night. It is excellent for removing makeup and has made my skin feel very soft. About once a week, I dispense my normal amount of oil cleanser in my hand and then sprinkle a little bit of sugar into it (I keep a small bottle of sugar in my bathroom for this). It works like a scrub. It is a little rough so I massage gently, but my skin feels amazing afterward!
I am not especially prone to acne though I do occasionally get a small pimple. I can't say whether this cleanser has helped diminish since I get them so infrequently anyway, but I can say that I have not seen an increase in acne issues.
The castor oil cost about $2.50 for 6oz. The sunflower oil cost about $2 for one of those tall oil bottles (maybe 50 or 60oz?). I have been using it for about 5 months and have only put a small dent in my supplies!
container for toothpaste
An empty toothpaste tube makes a great container. You can get the tube "roll-ups" at the Dollar Tree. My recipe has glycerin in it so it's really creamy and comes out just the store bought kind!
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