Body odor is the unpleasant smell most people experience after a long workout at the gym or a hard day of work in hot weather. Many choose to forgo commercial deodorants and antiperspirants. These products often contain aluminum, which could cause health problems. Some use natural commercial deodorants available at most pharmacies or discount stores. Others choose to use natural home remedies for body odor.
Soap and Water
If you notice that you have body odor, taking a bath or shower will temporarily treat the problem. Pay special attention to lathering up your armpits, groin and feet to eliminate the bacteria that cause unpleasant smells.
This remedy will last only as long as you do not produce more sweat and bacteria, so bathe every morning and evening for best results. Wear loose-fitting, light clothing to allow air to circulate and prevent excessive sweating.
Change Your Diet
The Global Healing Center states that some people are sensitive to certain foods and that this sensitivity can cause body odor. The common culprits include chocolate, peanuts, raisins, eggs, corn and wheat germ. Cutting these foods out may make a difference in the way you smell.
If you notice a change after eliminating these foods from your diet, you can re-introduce them one by one to see if you can narrow it down to one or more specific foods. Health911 also recommends examining your diet to reduce body odor. The foods it suggests cutting out on a trial basis include coffee, alcohol, meat, onions and garlic.
Dietary Supplements
The Home Remedy Reference Center suggests that a zinc deficiency can cause body odor. Try taking zinc supplements or consuming more zinc in your diet to see if this helps eliminate body odor. Foods with zinc include spinach, parsley, cucumbers and asparagus.
Vitamin B, magnesium and chlorophyll may also reduce body odor.
Natural Deodorants
Some products can work as natural deodorants when applied to the underarms. Try mixing an ounce of witch hazel with an ounce of sage tincture. Add 20 drops of lavender essential oil, and splash or spray this mixture on your armpits in place of commercial deodorant.
Another natural deodorant is apple cider vinegar. Put this in a spray bottle and spray under your arms after showering.
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