Body odor is not only embarrassing, but it can have negative professional and social implications if left unchecked. The Mayo Clinic notes that body odor results from bacterial growth that occurs as a natural result of the secretion of fatty sweat by the tubes of the apocrine sweat glands. There are many physiological reasons the apocrine sweat glands can produce more sweat, including diet, mood, medical conditions and hormone levels.
Herbal Remedies
Alfalfa contains an antibacterial agent in the plant's chlorophyll that helps reduce body odor by killing the odor-causing bacteria, says the Natural Health Web website. Parsley also helps kill the bacteria and contains zinc that helps reduce odor. Rosemary is used in several over-the-counter (OTC) deodorants and can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria as well, the website says.
Dietary Treatments
John Anne, of the Natural Health Web website, recommends eating healthy foods that are easily digestible in the body. He suggests reducing red meat, hot and spicy food, which increases sweat. Food should be eaten at moderate temperature. Green leafy vegetables and fruit provide high fiber that helps remove wastes from the body and cleanses the digestive tract.
Antibacterial Soap
The Learning Info website suggests that using antibacterial soaps can help kill the bacteria that cause body odor. The website warns that some antibacterial soaps can dry out the skin and suggests using moisturizing soaps on the less odor-producing parts of the body.
Baby Wipes
Baby wipes can be a great way to eliminate body odor. The Learning Info website suggests using baby wipes when under a lot of stress or sweating more profusely. An alternative to baby wipes is to use a moist towelette to remove bacteria-causing sweat immediately.
Change Those Socks
Absorbent socks can pull water away from the body, helping remove bacteria from the skin. The Learning Info website suggests buying socks made with polypropylene. Changing socks frequently will help minimize foot odor.
Powder
Bacteria require moist places to thrive. Using powder can help prevent the bacteria from growing. Apply powder to areas of the body prone to sweat build-up.
Home Remedies
Sage is great for removing unwanted smells from the body. Anne recommends mixing sage leaves with tomato juice and applying the solution on the parts of the body that cause odor. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, a natural antibacterial, and can be used in place of deodorant.
Member Comments