Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, is a condition in which you sweat profusely and unpredictably. PubMed Health reports that if you have hyperhidrosis, you may have overactive sweat glands, and that profuse sweating may lead to physical discomfort and embarrassment. In most cases, the exact cause of hyperhidrosis is unknown. Before using dietary supplements in treating your excessive sweating, review all possible treatment options with your primary care provider.
About Hyperhidrosis
There are two principle types of excessive sweating, notes the National Health Service of the United Kingdom: focal and generalized. Focal hyperhidrosis is a condition in which only certain regions of your body -- especially your face, feet, hands and armpits -- are affected, while generalized hyperhidrosis is a condition in which your entire body sweats profusely. Hyperhydrosis is also categorized as either primary or secondary. Primary hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating without any apparent cause, while secondary hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating caused by an underlying health problem.
Hyperhidrosis Supplements
Numerous supplements have historically been used in treating excessive sweating, although not all supplements used for this health purpose have been scientifically proven to be effective. Sage is one of the most commonly used supplements in treating excessive sweating, notes naturopathic physician Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth." Other supplements that may be helpful for this condition include calcium, potassium, valerian, horsetail, eucalyptus, witch hazel and walnut leaves.
Featured Supplement
Sage is a popular dietary supplement in the treatment of excessive sweating. According to certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," sage is helpful in reducing both excessive sweating and salivation. Sage may also be helpful in treating menopause-related symptoms, including hot flashes. The leaves of the sage plant contain important medicinal ingredients -- including camphor and gallic acid -- and are the part of the plant incorporated into dietary supplements.
Disclaimer
Excessive sweating is a condition that should be managed by a licensed health care professional. A qualified provider can assess the underlying cause of your excessive sweating and make appropriate treatment recommendations, and she can counsel you on what supplements might be beneficial and what supplements you should avoid. Some supplements may cause unexpected side effects and should be discontinued immediately. Discuss the role of dietary supplements in your hyperhidrosis treatment plan with your doctor.
References
- PubMed Health: Hyperhidrosis
- National Health Service: Hyperhidrosis
- "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth"; Sharol Tilgner, N.D.; 1999
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
