Home Remedies for Body Odor

Sweat glands located in our body are of two types, namely eccrine glands and apocrine glands. While the eccrine glands are present in almost all parts of the body, the apocrine glands are found in the armpits, groin region, around the nipples, and on the feet. The glands produce sweat, and that produced by apocrine glands causes odor.

The odor is caused, when sweat comes in contact with bacteria present in that area of the body. Often people use different antiperspirants and/or deodorants to combat the problem.

However, this does not solve the problem as the antiperspirants or deodorants can only mask the odor. However, to combat body odor problem and nip it in the bud, there are a number of home remedies, one can make use of. Keep reading to know what they are.

One of the best body odor remedies is baking soda. Baking soda can be applied directly in the armpits before wearing clothes. Similarly, it can also be used in the groin area. It helps in absorbing moisture from the area and removes odor.

It can also be combined with lemon juice. Make a paste of baking soda and lemon juice and apply it on the skin to get rid of body odor.

Combine 3 tablespoons of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon rubbing alcohol and 1 cup water in a spray bottle. Shake the bottle, to mix the ingredients well. Spray the mixture all over the body and also on the clothes, so that there is no odor problem that you have to battle.

Using arnica helps in combating body odor and perspiration. It helps in killing bacteria, which produce odor. It is also available in a cream form and can be used instead of a deodorant. However, it is best to conduct a patch test, before using arnica, to ensure that you are not allergic to it.

Tea tree is famous for the antibacterial properties it has. It can be used for making homemade deodorants. Combine a few drops of tea tree herb or oil in water in a spray bottle. Shake the contents of the bottle before you spray it on yourself. Do not forget to shake the bottle every time, before you spray the deodorant.

This is one of the simplest remedies for body odor. Pour a few drops of rose water in water before you bathe. After using this remedy, there will be no need to use a deodorant after taking a bath.

Dab some milk of magnesia on a wet cotton ball. Rub the cotton ball on the 'problem' areas. You may choose to leave the cotton ball in the sweating region for sometime.

Combine white vinegar with alcohol and use it liberally all over the body after taking a shower. This remedy is not only safe, but it also helps in keeping body odor and perspiration under control for a long period of time.

Like tea tree oil, rosemary oil is also an effective remedy for body odor. Combine a few drops of rosemary oil with 2 to 3 tablespoons of water. Mix well and apply the mixture on the back, neck and in the underarms. It works against body odor and also limits perspiration.

One of the simplest remedies for body odor is alum. After taking bath, rub alum all over the body and run water over it. This remedy will help in controlling perspiration and in turn help in getting rid of body odor.

After taking a bath rub slices of lemon in the underarms. Let it dry before you wear your clothes. This remedy will ensure you are free of body odor for more than 12 hours.

Along with these home remedies for body odor, you will have to ensure that you take bath everyday and maintain proper hygiene. Wash your clothes regularly; wear clean clothes. Wear loose fitting, cotton clothes, especially in the hot season, as they allow the skin to breathe and help in preventing body odor.

Avoid foods like onion, garlic, spices, etc., which are known to cause body odor. Also stay away from caffeinated drinks, alcohol, smoking and tobacco as they are responsible for body odor. Last, but not the least, make sure you drink sufficient quantities of water everyday.