What Minerals Or Herbs Can Be Used To Reduce Underarm Sweating?

Various parts of the body produce sweat on a regular basis, including the underarms. Several commercial products exist to prevent perspiration and odor under the arms. In place of such products, consumers can use different minerals or natural ingredients to reduce sweat production. There is a risk of irritation with some antiperspirant ingredients. Always consult a health care professional before using herbs or minerals on the skin.

Sodium Bicarbonate

Sodium bicarbonate is the mineral component of baking soda. John Henderson Lamb, MD, writes in his article "Sodium Bicarbonate: An Excellent Deodorant" that plain sodium bicarbonate can be rubbed under the arms to reduce sweating and minimize odor. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology suggests mixing a small amount of water with the baking soda before putting it under the arms. Mix 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda with about a teaspoon of water in your palms. Rub the mixture on your underarm skin. The solution should be slippery. Discontinue use or reduce the amount of baking soda if irritation occurs.

Aluminum Salts

Aluminum salts are a mineral found in the earth's crust. Dr. Mercola points out that, while these alum-derived minerals or stones are natural, they have been linked with adverse health problems like Alzheimer's disease and an increased risk of breast cancer. These salts are typically found in commercial antiperspirant products but can also be purchased in other, more natural forms. Crystal deodorant stones are often marketed as aluminum-free, but they can contain other forms of alum salts. The salts are the primary effective ingredient in preventing sweat production.

Herbal Deodorants

Aloe vera is a natural plant that can be kept in most homes. Slathering a small amount of the flesh of this plant on the underarm skin can reduce odor from sweating, according to GreenLivingIdeas.com. The gelatin-like substance may have minimal effect on sweat production, but it can reduce discomfort associated with wet underarms.

Other herbs that can similarly be used to mask body odor and prevent the development of the bacteria, which occur when warmth and moisture meet in the underarm area, include rose leaf extract, sage, lemon, tea tree oil and other astringents like witch hazel. Not all herbs will work for every user.