Many cosmetics are pointed out as being harmful to our health. This is the case, among others, of toothpastes, composed of chemicals that are potentially toxic. In this article we propose a simple and healthy solution: make your own toothpaste!

Why brush your teeth? 

Brushing your teeth is very important. In fact, thanks to the mechanical action of the toothbrush, you eliminate the dental plaque, responsible for the development of bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria cause bad breath, cavities, oral infections...

The mechanical action of the toothbrush could be enough but in order to optimize the brushing, it is recommended to add an antibacterial. Reason why you need to use a product like toothpaste!

Toxicity of toothpastes

Most of the toothpastes contain toxic agents such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, which tends to irritate mucous membranes, foaming agents and preservatives, which often turn out to be endocrine disruptors. Vigilance is therefore required. To avoid these harmful substances, you have two solutions: opt for a natural toothpaste (in pharmacies or organic stores), which is often expensive and does not always taste good, or make your own toothpaste!

Homemade toothpaste: what are the advantages?

Making your own toothpaste has many benefits. In addition to the fact that this one will not be toxic, it will be economic, the ingredients being used for its manufacture being not very expensive; ecological because there is no container to throw away when the toothpaste is finished; easy to realize as you will see it in the recipe below; effective and easily adaptable according to your tastes and your needs. 

Ingredients to make your own toothpaste

• Coconut oil is used for its whitening and antibacterial action. The lauric acid it contains contributes to a cleansing effect and the rapid formation of a light foam. It also strengthens the immune system through its antimicrobial action.
  

• White clay protects enamel, absorbs bacteria and naturally purifies the mouth.
  

• Baking soda is a gentle abrasive that whitens teeth and neutralizes mouth acid. However, be careful to choose a thin one to avoid irritation and excessive abrasion.
  

• Essential oils are chosen based on their virtues. They can be anti-tartar, antiseptic, antibacterial, ... In our recipe, we will use spearmint essential oil for its freshness, Tea-tree for its antiseptic and antibacterial properties and clove to preserve the health of the gums. 

Other essential oils can be used according to your needs or taste, such as lemon, thyme, peppermint or sage. 

Beware! Essential oils cannot be used by pregnant or breastfeeding women, by the elderly and by children under six years old. All other ingredients can be used without any fear.

Dosage of ingredients

Ingredients: 

• 3 tablespoons of virgin coconut oil. 
• 1 tablespoon of baking soda (fine grains)
• 1 teaspoon of white clay
• 3 drops of spearmint essential oil (freshness)
• 3 drops of essential oil of Tea-tree (antiseptic and antibacterial)
• 3 drops of clove essential oil (gum health)
• A small glass container with a lid

Recipe for homemade toothpaste

1. Start by washing your hands, as well as the utensils and containers you will use to make your recipe. To avoid the development of bacteria, sterilize them.
2. Melt the coconut oil in a double boiler. 
3. In a bowl, put the virgin coconut oil, the spoon of baking soda and the spoon of white clay and mix well. 
4. Then pour in the drops of essential oil and mix again. 
5. Pour the resulting mixture into your glass container. 

To make it easier to use, I suggest you let your toothpaste harden by placing the container on its side. Simply slide your toothbrush over the toothpaste and rub the bristles of your toothbrush.

It may be a little confusing for you to see that your toothpaste doesn't foam as much as a regular toothpaste, but know that it's not the foam that makes your teeth healthier. You'll soon get used to this new sensation!

However, if it is more reassuring for you to have a toothpaste that "foams", you can add a teaspoon of Marseille soap shavings to your recipe.

This toothpaste does not keep as long as a regular toothpaste, so the amounts mentioned in the recipe will give you a small amount. Although it is tempting to make it in large quantities, I do not recommend it because this toothpaste can only be kept for a maximum of two months. 

I highly recommend you try this homemade toothpaste recipe. Personally, I have been using it for over a year and I am delighted with it. Teeth and mouth are healthy, breath is fresh, and best of all, it's natural, environmentally friendly and economical!