While itching under the arms is rarely a sign of a serious medical condition, it can be quite uncomfortable and embarrassing. There are some remedies that rely on natural ingredients that can help give you some relief. These remedies have not been approved by the FDA, however, so talk with your doctor before starting any sort of home treatment, especially if you have allergies.
Baking Soda and Aloe Vera Gel
According to Jethro Kloss, author of "Back to Eden: The Classic Guide to Herbal Medicine, Natural Foods, and Home Remedies Since 1939," a mixture of baking soda and aloe vera gel can be used as a remedy to treat itchy underarms. To make and use this treatment, combine 2 tbsp. baking soda with ½ tbsp. aloe vera gel and stir thoroughly to combine. Gently massage a small amount of the mixture under each armpit and leave it on for an hour before rinsing with cool water. There is no need to wash with soap unless the mixture bothers your skin. Unused portions of this mixture can be kept in the refrigerator for 48 hours.
Basil Essential Oil and Olive Oil
According to Ann Worwood, author of "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy," a mixture of basil essential oil and olive oil can be used as a topical treatment for underarm itch. To use this remedy, combine ¼ tsp. basil essential oil with 4 tsp. olive oil in a small bottle and shake vigorously to combine. Pour a small amount of the mixture onto a clean cotton pad and dab it on the affected area. Leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing with cool water and patting the skin dry with a clean towel. There is no need to wash with soap unless irritation or redness occurs. Unused portions of this mixture can be kept in a cool, dark and dry place for up to a month.
Garlic and Jojoba Oil
According to Bill Gottlieb, author of "Alternative Cures: More than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies," a mixture of garlic and jojoba oil can be applied to the underarms to help relieve itching. To make and use this mixture, combine 2 cloves garlic with 3 tbsp. jojoba oil in a blender or food processor and puree on high speed until a thick paste is formed. Apply a thick layer of the mixture to affected area and leave it on for 20 minutes before rinsing with cool, clean water and washing with a mild soap. This treatment can be repeated daily as long as no irritation occurs, and unused portions of the mixture can be kept in the refrigerator for 48 hours.
References
- "Back to Eden: The Classic Guide to Herbal Medicine, Natural Foods, and Home Remedies Since 1939"; Jethro Kloss; 2004
- "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy"; Ann Worwood; 1991
- "Alternative Cures: More than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies"; Bill Gottlieb; 2008
