Body odor can be caused by a number of factors, from dietary choices to environmental conditions. At times, body odors can be caused by an underlying, untreated medical condition. At other times, though, an unpleasant body odor may have a simpler explanation and may be effectively treated by an herbal remedy. You should consult your primary care physician if you do frequently experience undesirable body odor and before you begin an alternative health care treatment.
Chlorophyll
You may be able to combat body odor through the use of chlorophyll, the green pigment in plants. Chlorophyll may be able to help to neutralize body acids that contribute to body odor, as well as contribute to cleansing the intestinal tracts. You consume chlorophyll as a liquid, either by itself or added to juice or water, or in capsule form. The book "The Everything Guide to Herbal Remedies: An Easy-to-Use Reference for Natural Care" states that chlorophyll is "a natural, works-from-the-inside deodorant."
Sage
You may be able to minimize body odor through the internal or external use of sage. "The Herbal Drugstore: The Best Natural Alternatives to Over-the Counter and Prescription Medicines" notes that compounds found in sage can dry up perspiration, while the oils contained in sage are antiseptic and antibiotic. The book recommends applying sage either directly to the skin to lessen body odor or drinking a tea made from sage. Sage should not be used internally by pregnant or nursing mothers or for extended periods of time, as prolonged use can result in dizziness, hot flashes and even seizures.
Fennel
You may find that fennel seed, or foeniculum vulgare, may be able to effectively treat body odor. According to "The Herbal Drugstore," fennel not only improves digestion but also can reduce bad breath and body odor that originates in the intestines. The book recommends eating whole fennel seeds after every meal whenever needed. You may also drink a cup of fennel tea each day to help reduce body odor. Make fennel tea by crushing 2 to 3 tsp. of fennel seeds, and then simmering the crushed seeds in 1 cup of water for 15 minutes.
Barberry
You may be able to reduce body odor by consuming a tea that combines barberry, nettle and yellow dock. Combine equal parts of these three herbs, and then steep for 10 to 15 minutes. According to the book "Smart Medicine for Healthier Living," consuming a cup of the tea three times every day may help to diminish sweating and perspiration odor. The book also suggests that taking grapefruit-seed extract three times daily may help to reduce body odor.
References
- "The Everything Guide to Herbal Remedies: An Easy-to-Use Reference for Natural Health Care"; Martha Schindler Connors, Larry Altshuler; 2009
- "The Herbal Drugstore: The Best Natural Alternatives to Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medicines"; Linda Blachly White, Steven Foster; 2000
- "Smart Medicine for Healthier Living: A Practical A-to-Z Reference to Natural and Conventional Treatments for Adults"; Janet Zand, Allan N. Spreen, James B. LaValle; 1999
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