Throughout history, people have always looked for ways to manage body odour and stay fresh. Today, many of us use natural products, but this isn't a new idea.

The practice of using natural substances to combat body odour started thousands of years ago. Let's take a journey back in time to explore how ancient practices have evolved into the natural deodorants we use today.

Ancient Egypt: Personal Hygiene Pioneers
The ancient Egyptians were true pioneers in personal care. They placed a high value on cleanliness and body odour, which were essential not only for personal pride but also for spiritual and social reasons. To combat body odour, they used a variety of scented oils and concoctions made from spices, citrus oils, and other fragrant substances.

Egyptians applied these oils liberally to their bodies, especially under their arms, to mask unpleasant smells throughout the day. Ingredients like cinnamon, cedar, and myrrh were commonly used because of their strong, pleasant scents and possible antibacterial properties. These substances likely helped to inhibit the growth of odour-causing bacteria, making them effective natural deodorants.

The Broader Ancient World
The Egyptians weren't the only ones concerned with body odour. Across the ancient world, different cultures developed their own methods for staying fresh and fragrant.

In ancient Mesopotamia, people burned incense made from resins and woods to cover body odour. This practice not only masked unpleasant smells but also added a pleasant fragrance to their surroundings.

Similarly, the Greeks placed a high emphasis on hygiene and regularly bathed. They used a combination of oils and powders under their arms to stay fresh. These substances helped to absorb sweat and provide a pleasant scent.

The Romans adopted similar practices, enhancing their famous baths with rich oils and alums. Roman baths were social and cultural hubs where cleanliness and fragrance were paramount. Oils were used to moisturise the skin and impart a pleasant aroma, while alums, a type of mineral salt, likely had antibacterial properties.

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14 June 2024

Throwback Thursday: The Ancient Origins of Natural Deodorant

By Jade Dawes

Throughout history, people have always looked for ways to manage body odour and stay fresh. Today, many of us use natural products, but this isn't a new idea.

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In Asia, ancient Indians used sandalwood as a deodorant. They appreciated its lovely fragrance and cooling properties, which were ideal in the hot climate. Sandalwood was not only used for its scent but also for its ability to cool the skin, making it a practical choice for deodorant in the sweltering heat.

Transition to Modern Natural Deodorants
These ancient practices laid the groundwork for the modern natural deodorant movement. Just as the ancients utilised the best of nature to care for their bodies, today's natural deodorants harness ingredients from the earth to provide effective odour control.

Modern natural deodorants often contain ingredients like baking soda or cornstarch to absorb moisture. Baking soda helps to neutralise odours, while cornstarch absorbs sweat, keeping the underarms dry. Essential oils are added for their antibacterial properties and pleasant fragrances.

Oils like lavender, tea tree, and eucalyptus not only smell great but also help to fight odour-causing bacteria. Plant extracts, such as aloe vera, are included to soothe the skin, making these deodorants gentle enough for daily use.

Embracing the Power of Nature
Like our ancestors, we understand the importance of feeling and smelling great. But beyond that, we recognise that how we care for our bodies impacts our overall health and the environment. By choosing natural deodorants, we are not only embracing the wisdom of the past but also committing to a healthier, more sustainable future.

Using natural deodorants is a way to connect with ancient traditions while benefiting from modern advancements. These products combine time-tested ingredients with contemporary formulations to provide effective odour control without compromising health or the environment.

Whether you're an enthusiast of all things natural or just starting to explore alternatives to conventional products, the story of natural deodorant is a compelling reminder of the timeless human desire to live well and smell even better. It shows that sometimes, the best solutions are those that nature has provided all along.

Conclusion
Throughout history, the quest to manage body odour and stay fresh has been a constant. From the ancient Egyptians' use of scented oils to modern natural deodorants, the journey has been long and varied. The resurgence of natural deodorants today is not just a trend but a return to tried-and-true practices that prioritise health and sustainability.

By embracing natural deodorants, we honour the wisdom of the past and look forward to a future where we care for our bodies and the planet in the best way possible. So, the next time you apply your favourite natural deodorant, remember that you're part of a long history of people who have sought to live well and smell great, naturally.

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