Once upon a time, I made fun of and declared to a friend that I would never brush my teeth with baking soda, dismissing her “different” approach as unhygienic. Back then, It seemed absurd to me that cleaning my teeth without using fancy toothpaste with lots of stuff and foam in it could work.

Fast forward to today, and here I am, proudly crafting my own toothpaste for over four years and loving it. Crafting my own toothpaste not only eliminates plastic tube waste but also allows me complete control over the ingredients I put in. And let’s not forget the cost savings!

What’s more, my teeth have never felt cleaner.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll learn about the all-natural DIY zero-waste toothpaste I use, its benefits, customizable ingredients, and how you can incorporate it into your daily routine for a healthier smile and planet.

What is the first thing we put in our mouth when we wake up?

• ☠️Toothpaste filled with chemicals and micro-plastic beads. Seriously, we are ingesting microplastics and chemicals the moment we put that paste in our mouths.
• ❌️Microplastics are specifically added to our usual market toothpaste to work as abrasive particles, scrubbing, emulsifying, or filling agents -with devastating consequences to our health and environment.
• 🚫They are made of polyethene but can be of other petrochemical plastics such as polypropylene and polystyrene.

⚠️Also, did you know? About 1.5 billion toothpaste tubes are thrown into our landfills and oceans worldwide each year. Crazy isn’t it❓️(Read This)

It’s time for you to say goodbye to plastic in a tube and make the switch now!

What are the common toothpaste ingredients in market toothpaste that are best to avoid?

• Sodium Lauryl Sulphate (SLS) – SLS is a foaming agent commonly used in toothpaste to create a rich lather. However, some studies recommend avoiding it as it can cause skin irritation, canker sores, (2)and even lead to oral tissue damage. (3)

• Fluoride – When fluoride can help to prevent tooth decay, excessive fluoride ingestion can cause dental fluorosis, a condition that can discolour and damage teeth. Some studies have also linked fluoride to other health problems such as bone fractures, thyroid problems and neurological issues. (4)

• Triclosan – Triclosan has been linked to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and there are concerns that it may disrupt hormones and harm the environment. (5)

• Artificial Sweeteners – Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame (6), saccharin, and sorbitol are often used in toothpaste to make it more palatable. However, these sweeteners may even promote tooth decay.

• Micro-beads – These tiny plastic beads are sometimes used in toothpaste to add abrasiveness for cleaning. However, they are harmful to the environment and may even cause damage to the gums. (7)

It’s important to note that not all toothpaste brands contain these ingredients, It’s always a good idea to read the label and do your research first to find a toothpaste that meets your specific needs and preferences. There is one that I trust myself and will recommend for you as well. Find it here.

We have the best natural solutions. Your mouth will say “aah” when you brush your teeth with natural toothpaste.

Why should you replace chemical toothpaste with natural ones?

♻️ Biodegradable.
✅️ Non-toxic and safe to use.
🚯 No micro-plastics/beads.
💲 Easy access and affordable.
🌿 Vegan.
❌️ No synthetic pesticides or fragrances.

So, What are the alternatives?

• DIY Natural Toothpaste
• Natural Tooth powders
• Daatun sticks (Optional- weekly use along with DIY toothpaste)
• Dent tabs (best for while you are travelling)

A Toothpaste is normally formed of-

• Abrasive. (10-15%)
• Active ingredients/ Remineralization to prevent cavities. (60%)
• Flavouring. (10%)
• Anti-Bacterial. (10%)
• Sweeteners. (10%)

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by JYOTSNA | CONSCIOUS LIVING (@mindfulsavers)

DISCLAIMER - This post is meant to be informative only. It is not meant to treat any medical condition. While I use these homemade toothpaste recipes myself, I also recognize that there are many dentists who will only approve of fluoridated toothpaste with the ADA seal. Keep that in mind when choosing what toothpaste you choose to use.

Here are the ingredients used in natural toothpaste recipes and their functions:

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil offers antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and freshening properties. When using coconut oil in DIY toothpaste, it’s essential to use extra virgin cold-pressed coconut oil to ensure maximum potency and purity.

Coconut oil is also commonly used in oil pulling, an ancient Ayurvedic practice that involves swishing oil around the mouth and rinsing it out to improve oral health.

Olive Oil

Some individuals may find that olive oil makes the toothpaste too oily or greasy, while others may prefer the texture and mouthfeel it provides.

Baking Soda

Baking soda, or sodium bicarbonate, is a white crystalline powder commonly used in cooking and baking. It offers mild abrasiveness, acid neutralization, antibacterial properties, breath freshening, teeth whitening and potential contributions to remineralization.

It has a pH of 9 to 11 (alkaline), so it helps to neutralize acids while not being too abrasive to teeth.

Calcium Carbonate

Calcium carbonate is a naturally occurring mineral compound that is commonly found in rocks, shells of marine organisms, and pearls. It is a rich source of calcium, an essential mineral that is important for maintaining strong, healthy teeth.

Incorporating calcium carbonate into DIY toothpaste can help remineralize tooth enamel, strengthen the teeth and act as a gentle abrasive. Calcium carbonate also contributes to the smooth texture and consistency of toothpaste formulations.

Allum Stone Powder (Fitkari)

Alum stone powder, also known as potassium alum, is a naturally occurring mineral compound that has been used for centuries for its medicinal and cosmetic properties.

This ingredient in my DIY toothpaste came as a blessing to me passed on by my father. I have found it extremely effective and shown me quick results.

It is an all-in that serves as an astringent (gum tightening), anti-bacterial, mouth freshening, mild abrasive and with potential teeth whitening benefits. Even if you’re using market toothpaste, use this powder once a week mixing with rock salt for amazing results.

To make powder at home, heat the allum stone on a tawa, when it starts bubbling/ crumbling, turn the gas off and let it cool off. Make fine powder grinding in a pestle or use a mixer grinder.

Turmeric Powder

Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It also offers, antioxidant, whitening, and soothing properties. 

Note – Do make sure to use non-adulterated and pure turmeric powder. The ones available in the market today come with added colours and tints which may stain your teeth.

Licorice root powder (Mulethi)

liquorice refers to the root of the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant. The root of the Licorice plant has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties and as a flavouring agent in various foods, candies, and herbal remedies.

It contains anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, breath-freshening, and whitening properties.

Cinnamon Powder

Cinnamon powder is a spice made from the inner bark of several species of cinnamon trees. It has a sweet, warm flavour and is commonly used in cooking, baking, and herbal remedies.

Contains natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help to prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Its aromatic properties impart a refreshing flavour for a more enjoyable brushing experience.

Neem Powder

Neem powder is derived from the leaves of the neem tree (Azadirachta indica), which is native to the Indian subcontinent. 

A natural antibacterial and antifungal agent that can help to prevent gum disease and reduce inflammation. It also has natural cleansing properties that can help remove plaque, reducing swelling and tartar from teeth.

Rock/ Sea Salt

Rock salt, also known as “sendha namak” in Hindi, is a type of salt that is harvested from salt mines or extracted from saltwater bodies. It is unrefined and contains various minerals, including calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron.

Using rock salt in DIY natural toothpaste is very effective and has worked wonders for me. It’s essential to grind it into a fine powder to ensure smooth consistency and effective distribution of its properties.

It can contribute to improved oral health and hygiene in toothpaste formulations, providing antibacterial, mineral-enriching, gum-strengthening, and breath-freshening benefits for the teeth and gums.

Also, then you can say proudly “Haan mere toothpaste mein namak hai!” 😉

Bentonite Clay (Multani Mitti) / Kaolin clay

Bentonite clay is a natural clay derived from volcanic ash deposits. It has been used for centuries for its medicinal and therapeutic properties.

It is a natural mineral that has gentle abrasive, detoxifying, mineral-enriching, alkalizing, soothing, and odour-absorbing properties and can also help to whiten teeth. It is also a natural teeth polisher.

Arrowroot Powder (Aru)

Arrowroot powder is a fine white powder derived from the rhizomes, or underground stems, of the arrowroot plant (Maranta Arundinacea). It is often used as a thickening agent in cooking, as well as in various cosmetic and personal care products.

Similarly, It acts as a natural thickening agent in toothpaste, helping to create a smooth and creamy texture that makes it easier to apply and spread evenly on the teeth. It provides texture, mild abrasiveness, moisture-absorbing properties, and soothing effects.

Diatomaceous Earth

DE is composed of fossilized diatoms, which are rich in minerals such as silica, calcium, magnesium, and others. These minerals can help remineralize tooth enamel, strengthening the teeth and supporting overall dental health.

When using DE in DIY toothpaste, it’s important to choose food-grade DE that is safe for oral use. It provides mild abrasive properties, natural detoxification, mineral enrichment, alkalizing effects, and potential anti-bacterial benefits.

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is a fine black powder that is made from carbon-rich materials such as wood, coconut shells, or coal. It is processed at high temperatures to activate its porous structure, which increases its surface area and makes it highly adsorbent.

A natural absorbent offering stain removal, deodorizing, antibacterial, detoxifying, pH balancing, and natural whitening properties.

Cacao (powdered or crushed)

Cacao, also known as cocoa, is the dried and fully fermented seed of Theobroma cacao, from which cocoa solids and cocoa butter are extracted.

Compounds present in cacao beans promote remineralization better than fluoride (and of course, much more safely). It is used in toothpaste as a flavour-enhancing, mild abrasive and anti-oxidant properties.

Xylitol

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is commonly used as a sugar substitute in various food products and oral care products. It is naturally found in many fruits and vegetables and is often extracted from birch wood or corn cobs for use.

A natural sweetener that can help to prevent tooth decay by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth. Also offers flavour-enhancing, cavity-fighting, saliva-stimulating, pH-neutralizing and plaque-reducing promoting good oral health.

Stevia

Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the leaves of the Stevia Rebaudiana plant. It serves as a natural and tooth-friendly alternative to traditional sweeteners in DIY toothpaste recipes. It adds sweetness to the toothpaste while contributing to a more enjoyable brushing experience without compromising oral health.

Triphala Powder

Triphala powder is a traditional herbal remedy in Ayurvedic medicine that consists of a combination of three dried fruits: Indian gooseberry or amla (Emblica Officinalis), Baheda (Terminalia Bellirica), and Haritaki (Terminalia Chebula). These fruits are known for their potent medicinal properties and have been used for centuries to promote overall health and well-being.

Triphala powder contains tannins, which are astringent compounds that help tighten and strengthen gum tissue and it is extremely anti-septic.

Babool bark powder

It is derived from babul treebark and is anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, gum-strengthening, cleansing, and helps in odor-free mouth.

Miswak Powder

Miswak, also known as Siwak or Salvadora persica, is a natural teeth-cleaning tool made from the root or stem of the Salvadora persica tree. Miswak powder is derived from dried and ground Miswak sticks and has been traditionally used for oral hygiene in our Indian culture.

Ashwagandha Powder

Ashwagandha powder is derived from the roots of the Withania Somnifera plant, also known as Indian ginseng or winter cherry. It is a popular adaptogenic herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for its wide range of health benefits. It is a commonly used ingredient in toothpaste.

Bakul Bark Powder

Bakul bark powder is derived from the bark of the Bakul tree, scientifically known as Mimusops Elengi. Bakul is a tree native to the Indian subcontinent, and its bark has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for various health purposes.

Peppermint Essential Oil

Provides a refreshing flavour and has antibacterial properties that can help to kill harmful bacteria in the mouth. It can also freshen your breath and promote oral health.

Clove Essential Oil

Has natural numbing properties that can help to reduce pain and inflammation in the mouth. It also has antibacterial properties that can help to kill harmful bacteria in the mouth.

Tea tree essential oil

Has natural antifungal and antibacterial properties that help to prevent gum disease and reduce inflammation. Also helps to freshen your breath.

Anise Essential Oil

By using natural ingredients like these, you can create a toothpaste that is effective at cleaning and protecting your teeth and gums, without the potentially harmful chemicals found in commercial toothpaste.

Lemon Essential Oil

It contains natural antimicrobial properties that help to kill harmful bacteria in the mouth. It also helps to freshen breath and whiten teeth.

SR. NO.	INGREDIENT NAME	ABRASIVE	MINERALIZATION	FLAVOUR	ANTI-BACTERIAL	SWEET-ENER	BALANCE PH	THICK ENER	WHITE-NER
1.	Coconut Oil		✔	✔	✔				✔
2.	Olive oil
3.	Baking Soda	✔			✔		✔		✔
4.	Calcium carbonate	✔	✔				✔		✔
5.	Allum stone powder			✔	✔		✔
6.	Turmeric Powder				✔				✔
7.	Licorice root powder (Mulethi)			✔	✔	✔
8.	Cinnamon Powder
9.	Neem Powder				✔
10.	Rock/ sea Salt	✔			✔		✔
11.	Bentonite Clay/ Kaolin Clay	✔	✔		✔		✔	✔
12.	Arrowroot Powder							✔
13.	Diatomaceous Earth	✔					✔
14.	Activated Charcoal	✔			✔		✔		✔
15.	Cacao	✔		✔	✔
16.	Xylitol		✔			✔	✔
17.	Stevia					✔
18.	Triphala powder		✔		✔		✔
19.	Babool bark powder		✔		✔
20.	Miswak powder		✔		✔				✔
21.	Ashwagandha powder				✔
22.	Bakul bark powder		✔		✔
23.	Peppermint Essential Oil			✔	✔
24.	Clove Essential Oil/ Powder			✔	✔
25.	Tea Tree Essential Oil			✔	✔
26.	Anise Essential Oil			✔	✔

Zero-waste Tip:

• Apply with a Bamboo Toothbrush: To maintain a zero-waste lifestyle, use a bamboo toothbrush. These brushes are biodegradable and come in eco-friendly packaging.

• Want to make a DIY Natural tooth powder recipe? – Use the same recipe ingredients given above without adding any Oil. (except essential oils).

---

FAQ’S

Is there any substitute for coconut oil?

Because coconut oil is solid at colder room temperatures, the texture of your recipe will change from season to season, giving you thinner toothpaste in the summer, and possibly a hard-to-use, almost solid toothpaste in the winter. If that’s an issue, you can solve this problem by using olive oil in replacement.

How to use homemade toothpaste? 

Use this toothpaste as you would any other store-bought toothpaste. Only a pea-size amount is enough for adults.

Squeeze it out from the tube or if using a jar, scoop out a little bit through a clean wooden stick and brush generally as you would.

How to prevent contaminating your natural toothpaste?

To avoid contaminating it, don’t dip your wet toothbrush into a jar of homemade toothpaste. Instead, use a tube dispenser to dispense a small amount onto your toothbrush. You can also use a clean spoon or another utensil to scoop out a small amount from the jar to add to the brush.

Does it need to be refrigerated? Storage/ Shelf Life?

The toothpaste has a shelf life equal to the ingredients you are using. Since it is oil-based and also we are adding no water in it that can spoil it, it does not need to be refrigerated.

DIY toothpaste typically has a shelf life of 6 months to a year, depending on the ingredients used. To prolong the shelf life, store your toothpaste in a cool, dry place and use a clean spoon or spatula to scoop out the desired amount. Discard any leftover toothpaste if it changes in colour, texture, or odour.

Does it make foam like other toothpaste on the market?

No. It doesn’t. The chemical toothpaste companies had us believing through their commercials and conditioned our brains to think that more foam means more cleaning, which is just not true. So yes, natural toothpaste may not produce foam but cleans perfectly fine and sometimes even keeps cleaning after you’re done cleaning.

What are the benefits of making your DIY toothpaste?

One of the benefits of making your own zero-waste toothpaste is the ability to tailor the ingredients to your preferences. Whether you prefer a minty fresh flavour or a more herbal blend, you can customize your toothpaste recipe to suit your taste and oral health needs.

How often should you use this?

Use DIY toothpaste as you would with commercial toothpaste, which is typically twice a day.

Can I customize DIY toothpaste to suit my preferences?

Absolutely! One of the benefits of DIY toothpaste is that you can customize it to suit your preferences. You can adjust the ingredients, such as the flavour, texture, and consistency, to create a toothpaste that meets your specific needs and preferences. Experiment with different combinations until you find the perfect recipe for you.

Is DIY toothpaste cost-effective?

Yes, DIY toothpaste can be cost-effective compared to commercial toothpaste, especially if you buy ingredients in bulk or grow some of them yourself. While the initial investment may be higher for some ingredients, such as essential oils, they last a long time and can be used in various other DIY recipes.

Is DIY toothpaste as effective as commercial toothpaste?

Yes, DIY toothpaste can be just as effective as commercial toothpaste, if not more so. The key is to use ingredients that promote oral health, such as baking soda, coconut oil, and essential oils. These ingredients can help clean and protect your teeth without the need for harsh chemicals

Can DIY toothpaste help whiten teeth?

Yes, DIY toothpaste can help whiten teeth, especially if it contains ingredients like baking soda and activated charcoal. These ingredients can help remove surface stains and brighten your smile over time. However, it’s essential to use these ingredients in moderation to avoid damaging the enamel.

Are there any cons?

The only minus point is, that you probably wouldn’t want to share this jar of toothpaste with anyone else. It is all yours.

---

Conclusion: 

Making your own all-natural DIY zero-waste toothpaste is a small step towards a healthier and new rich lifestyle. By embracing this simple DIY recipe, you’re contributing to a brighter smile and our clean planet. So, embark on this eco-friendly oral care journey today. Your teeth, and the planet, will thank you. 

Let me know what you think about this and do share your experience in the comments below.

If you like this, Pin it!