One follower asked what was tawas, which I mentioned in the posting: Alum – what is it?

The powder of some alums is used as a ‘natural’ deodorant, and in some countries is named as Tawas. Wikipedia explains “Alum’s antiperspirant and antibacterial properties contribute to its traditional use as an underarm deodorant. It has been used for this purpose in Europe, Mexico, Thailand (where it is called sarn-som), throughout Asia and in the Philippines (where it is called tawas).

In Hobart and other places in Australia, potassium alum is sold commercially as a “deodorant crystal”. This information prompted me to check my deodorant which is marketed as Body Crystal comprised of natural mineral salts. I was surprised to read its main constituent is Potassium Alum. I have been using this deodorant for years and years and years as an alternative to the usual aluminium based deodorants which I understand are more toxic to the body over time.  Besides it has always worked effectively whatever the climate or the situation.

Thanks for the question because it forced me to learn more.

By the way, a new reader today was from the Phillipines. I wonder whether he or she was searching on the word Tawas and came up with the connection to my blog.