DIY Spearmint Tea Toothpaste: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Most of us know spearmint tea as a soothing, refreshing drink. But did you know those same minty leaves can double as a natural ingredient for homemade toothpaste? Spearmint contains compounds like carvone and limonene, which contribute to its clean flavor and breath-freshening qualities. When blended into a gentle base, it can help create a safe, fluoride-free alternative for daily brushing.
In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through how to make your own DIY spearmint toothpaste at home. It’s quick, uses pantry-friendly ingredients, and can be adjusted to your taste and texture preferences.
Why Make Your Own Toothpaste?
- Fewer additives – Store-bought toothpaste often contains artificial flavors, foaming agents, and preservatives. A homemade version lets you know exactly what’s inside.
- Customizable – You can control sweetness, texture, and flavor strength.
- Sustainable – Store your toothpaste in a reusable glass jar, cutting down on plastic tubes.
- Budget-friendly – A few simple ingredients can last for months.
Note: This recipe is fluoride-free. Fluoride is proven to help protect against cavities, so you may want to use this toothpaste in rotation with a fluoride-based option, depending on your dentist’s recommendations.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 tablespoons coconut oil (softened but not melted)
- 1½ tablespoons food-grade calcium carbonate powder (a gentle polisher)
- 1 tablespoon baking soda (mild abrasive + whitening effect)
- 1 teaspoon spearmint tea leaves (finely ground into powder)
- 1–2 tablespoons xylitol powder (optional, for natural sweetness and cavity-fighting benefits)
- 1 small glass jar with a tight lid
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Spearmint Tea Powder
Open a few spearmint tea bags or measure out loose-leaf spearmint tea. Use a spice grinder or mortar and pestle to grind the leaves into a very fine powder. The finer the grind, the smoother your toothpaste will feel on the brush.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a clean bowl, whisk together the calcium carbonate, baking soda, spearmint tea powder, and xylitol (if using). Make sure everything is evenly mixed with no clumps.
Step 3: Add the Coconut Oil
Scoop the softened coconut oil into your bowl. Use a fork or spatula to mash and fold it into the powder until the mixture turns into a smooth, paste-like consistency.
Step 4: Adjust Texture
- If your toothpaste feels too dry, add another teaspoon of coconut oil.
- If it feels too soft, sprinkle in a little more calcium carbonate or baking soda.
This step ensures you end up with the thickness you like best.
Step 5: Store and Label
Transfer the paste into a clean glass jar with a lid. Label it with the date and contents (DIY Spearmint Toothpaste). Store in a cool cabinet.
How to Use It
- Scoop a pea-sized amount using a clean spoon or spatula (avoid dipping your toothbrush directly into the jar to keep it hygienic).
- Brush as usual, then rinse thoroughly.
- Use twice daily, just like you would with regular toothpaste.
Storage & Shelf Life
Since this recipe doesn’t contain water, it keeps well for 2–3 months at room temperature. If you live in a hot climate, you may notice the coconut oil softening or separating slightly—just stir before using.
Pro Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor: Add 1–2 drops of food-grade spearmint or peppermint essential oil (optional, but not necessary if you prefer a more subtle taste).
- For sensitive teeth: Skip or reduce the baking soda, which can feel a little gritty for some.
- For kids: Use xylitol for natural sweetness, but never use xylitol in homes with dogs (it’s toxic for them).
- Whitening boost: Swap ½ teaspoon of baking soda for food-grade activated charcoal powder (note: this can be messy).
Final Thoughts
Making your own toothpaste might sound intimidating, but with spearmint tea, it’s refreshingly simple. Not only does it freshen breath naturally, but it also gives you a sense of control over what goes into your oral care routine. Whether you make it as a personal swap or as a fun DIY project to share with family, this recipe is a small step toward a cleaner, greener lifestyle.