Perspiration is a normal, healthy physiological process that helps your body maintain a consistent core temperature. In some cases, however, you may experience excessive levels of perspiration, which may be inconvenient and socially embarrassing. Excessive perspiration may signal an underlying health condition that requires the attention of a qualified health care professional. Before using herbal remedies to help treat excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, weigh the benefits and risks of herbal treatments with your family doctor.
About Excessive Perspiration
The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that hyperhidrosis is a medical condition characterized by excessive and unpredictable sweating. If you have this condition, you may sweat even though you are at rest or the ambient air temperature is low. There are many health conditions that may cause you to sweat excessively, including anxiety disorders, cancer, hyperthyroidism, stroke, tuberculosis, menopause and Parkinson's disease. Certain prescription medications may also cause excessive sweating.
Common Herbal Remedies
There are several herbal remedies that may help regulate sweating. Herbal remedies for excessive perspiration target various underlying conditions -- such as hyperthyroidism and anxiety disorders -- that most commonly cause hyperhidrosis. Expert herbalist and naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth," states that bugleweed and lemon balm help relieve hyperthyroid symptoms, including excessive sweating, while passionflower, lavender, California poppy, catnip and chamomile help treat various anxiety disorders.
Highlighted Herb
Lemon balm is an herb that is often used to treat the underlying conditions that cause excessive perspiration. Edward Smith, an expert herbalist and author of "Therapeutic Herb Manual," notes that lemon balm has many health actions and uses. Lemon balm has a pleasing aroma and taste and possesses mild tranquilizing action. Lemon balm is helpful for treating nervousness and nervous irritation and the symptoms that usually accompany hyperthyroidism.
Additional Information
Because there are numerous conditions that may cause excessive spontaneous, or chronic, perspiration, you should visit your family doctor for a thorough evaluation of your health complaint. Several conditions that cause excessive sweating may lead to serious health consequences and should be treated immediately by a qualified health care professional or team of professionals. Herbs for hyperhidrosis should only be used after you have discussed your condition with your doctor.
References
- MedlinePlus: Sweating
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Hyperhidrosis
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Therapeutic Herb Manual"; Ed Smith; 2007
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