Top 10 Multi-Use Ingredients Every Kitchen Witch Needs

When I first started venturing into herbal remedies and low-tox living, I was convinced I'd need an entire apothecary full of obscure powders, exotic oils, and specialty ingredients just to get started. I made list after list-skin care, teas, sleep support, baby care, deodorant replacements, tooth care...and I genuinely thought before I got started, I'd need a million different things.

But here's the thing I learned quickly (and repeatedly): you don't need a million ingredients-you just need multi-use powerhouse ingredients!

The more recipes I've created, the more DIYs I've tested, the more I've worked on making this lifestyle practical for my family...the more I keep coming back to these same core staples. They're versatile, effective, and affordable. These are the ingredients I reach for in nearly every recipe-from herbal teas and toothpowder to deodorant and hair oils.

So whether you're just starting your own kitchen witch journey or simplifying what you already have, these are the 10 multi-use ingredients worth stocking. They'll carry you through your first DIYs and into your new venture!

1.Arrowroot Powder

Why it's a healthier choice:

Unlike talc (a known toxin) or cornstarch (which can feed yeast), arrowroot is a gentle, natural starch from tropical plants. It's safe for sensitive skin and won't clog pores.

Can be used in:

• Baking soda-free deodorant

• Toothpowders

• Dry Shampoos

• Baby Powders

2.Beeswax (or Candelilla Wax for a Vegan Alternative)

Why it's a healthier choice:

Unlike petroleum-based thickeners, beeswax forms a breathable, protective layer on skin that doesn't trap toxins. It's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. Candelilla wax offers a vegan, plant-based option

Can be used in:

• Salves and balms

• Deodorant sticks

• Lip balms

3.Calendula (Dried or Infused Oil)

Why it's a healthier choice:

Calendula is a skin-loving flower with powerful wound-healing, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties. It's far gentler than cortisone creams or harsh chemical lotions.

Can be used in:

• Sleep and kid-safe teas

• Facial toners

• Infused salves

4.Castor Oil

Why it's a healthier choice:

Castor oil stimulates circulation, encourages hair growth, and has antimicrobial properties. It's a safer alternative to chemical hair serums or synthetic muscle rubs.

Can be used in:

• Herbal Hair Growth Oil Trio

• Herbal pain oils

• Deodorant

5.Magnesium (Flakes or Hydroxide)

Why it's a healthier choice:

Many people are magnesium-deficient, which can lead to muscle cramps, anxiety, poor sleep, and even body odor. Topical magnesium bypasses digestion and delivers immediate benefits-unlike commercial deodorants or muscle rubs full of aluminum and synthetics.

Can be used in:

• Magnesium deodorant

• Sleep spray

• Muscle soaks

6.Bentonite Clay

Why it's a healthier choice:

Bentonite clay binds to toxins, heavy metals, and impurities. It's a natural detoxifier that doesn't rely on artificial whitening agents or chemical exfoliants.

Can be used in:

• Toothpowder

• Facial masks

• Deodorant

7.Licorice Root (Powder or Dried)

Why it's a healthier choice:

Licorice root soothes mucous membranes, supports hormone balance, and acts as a natural sweetener and anti-inflammatory. It's a powerful herbal ally for PCOS support, adrenal fatigue, and digestive issues.

Can be used in:

• Sleep teas

• Toothpowder

• Sore throat tea

• Hormone support blends

8.Chamomile

Why it's a healthier choice:

This gentle herb is calming, anti-inflammatory, and kid-safe. It helps with anxiety, sleep, skin irritation, digestion, and teething-all without synthetic sleep aids or medicated creams.

Can be used in:

• Kid-Safe Sleep Tea

• Toner

• Bath soaks

• Diaper rash spray

• Sleep balm

• Anti-anxiety tea blends

9.Witch Hazel (Alcohol-Free)

Why it's a healthier choice:

Witch hazel tones, soothes, and cleanses without alcohol, artificial fragrance, or preservatives. It's perfect for acne-prone skin, postpartum care, and natural cleaning.

Can be used in:

• Facial toner

• Deodorant spray

• Itch sprays

• Postpartum care

10.Essential Oils (Start with Lavender, Tea Tree and Orange)

Why it's a healthier choice:

Essential oils offer powerful plant-based effects-antibacterial, calming, uplifting-without synthetic fragrance, phthalates, or toxic load. A little goes a long way when properly diluted

Can be used in:

• Everything!!

Final Thoughts

Think of these 10 ingredients as your place to start. They'll carry you through dozens of homemade swaps and herbal recipes with confidence and creativity.

And remember-while I often use and recommend organic brands, you don't need to start there. Buy what fits your budget. You'll be saving money (and your health) in the long run just by switching to simpler, safer ingredients.

Next time, we'll dive into the Top 10 Tools Every Kitchen Witch Needs-for infusing, straining, whipping, and creating your own potions with ease!

Want to see which brands and items I actually use? Feel free to explore the Witch's Cupboard where I've listed the items and shops that I use in my everyday swaps.

this post is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always test products on a small surface first and use caution when using essential oils around children or pets