Body odor refers to the “unpleasant smell” that comes from the body as it sweats. It’s also known as bromhidrosis [1]
It’s not the sweat that smells, but the “bacteria on the skin that breaks sweat into acids.” [1]
There are some bacterial strains that cause body odor. These include Corynebacterium, Staphylococcus hominis, Propionibacteria, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. [2]
Certain foods, alcohol drinking, poor hygiene, and diabetes can also cause this problem. [3]
Body odor is not a medical emergency that you should panic about. But it can be quite embarrassing.
You don’t need to worry anymore. Some home remedies can help you to get rid of body odor.
So let’s take a look at how you can deal with this problem.
16 Quick Remedies to Get Rid Of Body Odor
Body odor can affect your self-esteem. It will make you feel self-conscious when socializing with other people.
Try these proven remedies for relieving the problem.
1. Baking Soda and Cornstarch
If you know about the versatility of baking soda, then you may have a box or two of this at home.
You know how efficient it is in cleaning and disinfecting, and how you can use it as a food additive or ingredient.
Did you know that it can also remove body odor?
Baking soda is also called sodium bicarbonate. It acts as an antiseptic agent for deodorizing products [4, 5, 6].
Plain baking soda is sometimes combined with cornstarch, talc or rice flour. Some people use it as a deodorant for the underarms. [6]
Researchers recommend the daily use of baking soda as a deodorant. They also confirmed both its safety and efficacy in combating body odor [7].
We all know that some bacteria cause the unpleasant smell. The deodorizing effect of this natural remedy works by changing the pH of the bacteria. [7]
It’s no surprise that experts call it an “excellent deodorant.” [7]
It also helps you to get rid of the stinky smell of your feet after you’ve worn your shoes all day long.
How to use cornstarch and baking soda to get rid of body odor:
Combine one tsp of cornstarch and one tsp of baking soda. Apply on dry underarms once or twice daily. You can also apply on your toes before wearing your socks or shoes.
2. Sage Oil
Sage is an herb native to Mediterranean countries. Traditional Ayurveda recognizes this herb as a natural remedy. Because it’s rich in astringent, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and carminative properties. [8]
Oil extracted from sage is a favorite ingredient in perfumes and deodorants. [8].
Researchers conducted a clinical trial in 2013. In that trial, they assessed the effectiveness of sage as a deodorizing agent [9].
Participants included 45 female volunteers. They received three various doses of sage extract and placebo. [9].
Researchers conducted a standard olfactory evaluation. It held for two hours, four hours and eight hours after applying the deodorant or placebo [9].
A single application of sage as a stick deodorant was enough to combat odor in the armpits [9].
There was no noticeable skin irritation after using a rabbit skin patch test [9].
Commercial antibacterial products increase the risk of certain disorders like Alzheimer’s disease. Sage is a safe and efficient alternative to those antibacterial products [9].
Here’s how you can make a deodorant using sage oil:
Mix 5 drops of sage oil, 3 drops of coriander oil, and 2 drops of lavender oil. Find an empty and clean spray bottle and fill it in with the combined oil mixture. Use this spray as a deodorant every day.
3. Myrrh Oil
Myrrh oil is a staple in ancient Chinese medicine. It is famous as a treatment for blood stagnation, arthritis, and trauma. [10]
Ayurvedic healers, meanwhile, recognize its therapeutic purposes for various health issues. These include heart diseases, inflammation, obesity, and gynecological problems. [10]
Apart from resolving major health issues, it can also help fight minor ones such as body odor.
Some bacteria produce lousy odor in the body. Like calendula, myrrh also possesses probiotic activities. These can help inhibit the formation of those bacteria. [11]
It can prevent bacteria from growing, forming and spreading to various parts of the skin.
An easy way to use myrrh oil for body odor:
Mix 5 drops of myrrh oil with one tsp of jojoba oil to dilute the myrrh oil. Apply the oil mixture on your underarms with your bare hand or using a cotton ball. Leave it on your skin for about half an hour. Wipe it off with plain water. Repeat this process once or twice a week.
4. Thyme Oil and Leaves
Thyme is an aromatic herb grown in many parts of the world. [12]
Many people love its nutty and minty flavor and scent that make dishes more palatable.
It’s also one of those herbs that have many benefits for the health.
It contains Thymol, carvacrol, and flavonoids that serve as potent antibacterial agents. [12]
It’s not a surprise that many people also use thyme for fighting body odor.
The Agricultural and Biological Chemistry published a study. It reported that the leaves of thyme have strong deodorizing properties. And, these properties are even more effective than sodium copper chlorophyllin. [13]
Here’s how to prepare a bath using thyme oil and leaves:
Prepare a bath with lukewarm water. Add one cup of thyme leaves and 10 drops of oil to the water. Soak your body in this water for at least 30 minutes. Then proceed with your regular bath routine. Repeat this procedure every day.
5. Lavender
During the middle ages, lavender was the go-to solution for masking body odor. [14]
Not much has changed since then.
There are so many commercial deodorants now. Still, many people use lavender for its pleasant scent.
Lavender is a safe and effective way to conceal body odor. [14]
Besides, it can induce relaxation, promote sleep, and tone down stress levels.
Learn how to use lavender oil for body odor:
Take 5 drops of lavender oil, 1 tsp of jojoba oil and blend them in a glass jar. Apply a thin layer on your armpits. Let it sit for 15 minutes before wiping off. Take a bath. Do this every day.
6. Licorice Root Extract
Licorice root extract is a popular ingredient for making candies. But you can also use it to get rid of body odor as well.
The active ingredient in licorice root extract called glycyrrhetic acid. It can help get rid of underarm odor even at low concentration of 0.01 to 5 percent [11]
It’s one of the vital components in deodorants, powder, cream, stick, roll-on and lotion. [11]
Licorice root extract can reduce bacterial strains like Staphylococcus epidermidis on the skin. [15]
These bacteria can produce diacetyl. It’s a substance that contributes to the odor coming from the armpits, head, and feet. [15]
Licorice root extract disrupt the growth and formation of diacetyl. [15]
How you may use licorice root extract for body odor:
Take a cup of water in a bowl and add 1 tsp of licorice root extracts. Stir to combine well. Use this solution to rinse your underarms after bathing. Repeat this remedy on a daily basis.
7. Calendula
Calendula is also known as marigold. It has been popular for its “rich medicinal values.” [16]
It contains a potent antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, among many others. [16]
It is because of the presence of phytochemicals in different parts of this plant. [16]
For those suffering from body odor, calendula can also be a reliable solution.
Research has shown that it has probiotic effects. It can stop the growth of odor-producing bacteria. [11]
That’s why calendula is an essential component in deodorizing products. These includes creams, powders, soaps, gels, lotions, and sticks. [11]
Besides, calendula doesn’t have any harmful side effects.
A simple way to use calendula to remove body odor:
Boil 1 tablespoon of calendula in 2 cups of water for few minutes. Remove from heat and keep it to cool down a bit. Strain the calendula from the water. Use this solution to rinse your whole body right after taking a shower. Repeat three to four times a week.
8. Sandalwood Powder
Sandalwood is a well-known coolant, sedative and astringent. It has been famous for treating many types of ailments since the ancient times. [17]
Sandalwood can treat bronchial infections, diarrhea, heart disease, food poisoning and many more. [17]
That’s not all; sandalwood also has a sweet lasting scent. This makes it accessible in the perfume and cosmetic industry. [17]
And it’s safe, and it works even for babies. [18]
Babies have natural sweet smell. But sometimes, when it’s hot and humid, they can get sweaty.
To maintain their pleasant smell, you can use sandalwood powder.
Manufacturer created a baby powder product designed for reducing body odor among infants. They included sandalwood as a main component. [18]
Learn how you can use sandalwood powder as a remedy for body odor:
Combine 1 tsp of baking soda and 1 tsp of sandalwood powder. Apply on underarms. Do this every day before going out.
9. Strawberry
Strawberries are the perfect healthy snacks. Because they contain many essential nutrients that are good for the health.
Microbes can produce horrible smell in the body. Strawberries can inhibit the growth and spread of those microbes. [11]
Its antibacterial activities work against Staphylococcus epidermidis. [11]
This remedy is also straightforward to put together. It only requires the use of a few ingredients, and you can prepare the formula in a matter of minutes.
Here’s an easy way to use strawberry for body odor:
Mix 1 tsp of crushed strawberries with 1 tsp of baking soda. Combine well to make a smooth paste. Apply this paste on the underarms. Let it sit for 30 minutes to one hour. Take a bath afterward. Repeat this every day for the best result.
10. Rosemary
A 2007 study has featured the broad spectrum antimicrobial properties of herbal remedies. [19]
Rosemary is one of the medicinal plants screened for this study. [19]
Its active compounds can disrupt the growth of Corynebacterium and Propionibacterium acnes. [19]
As mentioned earlier, these are the microbes responsible for the foul odor that comes out of the body.
It’s not difficult to imagine how rosemary can help fight body odor, as it is a natural, pleasant smell.
It’s also good to know that it can help you relax, and take your mind off the constant worries that stress you out.
How to use rosemary leaves for body odor:
Add ½ cup of rosemary leaves to 4 cups of boiling water. Let it steep for 15 minutes. Add this whole mixture to your bath water. Soak in the bath for 20 to 30 minutes. Then you can proceed with the regular shower. Do this remedy every day.
11. Tea
Drinking tea is a form of socialization in some countries.
In others, it’s a part of religious ceremonies or cultural rituals.
Tea has remarkable health benefits thanks to its catechins and phenolic compounds. [11]
It can also help freshen up your scent and remove body odor.
Research has proved that tea has inhibitory effects on Staphylococcus epidermidis. [11]
Gallocatechin can be the components responsible for its antibacterial properties. [11]
Besides, it also impacts the androgen receptors to reduce body odor. [11]
As it turns out, tea is more than a beverage. It also has other practical uses for the body such as for masking the unpleasant smell.
How to use tea for body odor:
Soak a black tea bag in a cup of hot water. Let it sit for 15 minutes. Remove the tea bag. Chill the tea in the refrigerator for 10 minutes. Soak a cotton pad in the tea. Put your arms up and place the cotton pad on your armpits. Put down your arms. Leave the cotton pads this way for at least 30 to 40 minutes. Remove the cotton pads, rinse your armpits with cold water and pat them dry. Repeat this remedy three times a day for one to two weeks.
12. Garlic
Here’s something that you didn’t expect to see in this list: garlic.
Those who suffer from bad breath, often avoid garlic as it aggravates the smell coming from the mouth.
So how come you recommend it for treating body odor?
It’s because garlic is a potent antibacterial agent. [11]
Its water extract can combat Staphylococcus epidermidis. Besides, it can prevent the disease from spreading on the skin. [11]
In as fast as one hour, a 90 percent garlic solution can kill most of the bacterial strains on your skin. [11]
Of course, you have to get rid of the garlic smell after. You need to use a mild soap to wash it off.
Try this simple method of using garlic for body odor:
Crush 3 garlic cloves and chop into medium pieces. Boil the chopped garlic in 2 cups of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let the solution to cool down a bit. Apply this solution to your armpits. Leave it on for 30 minutes. Rinse off with cold water. Take a bath and wash underarms with a mixture of liquid soap and 3 drops of lavender oil. Repeat this procedure every day.
13. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice is an essential ingredient for removing body odor. It not only eliminates the bad odor but also makes you smell fresh and good. [20]
The citric acid of lemon juice is the key element here. Acid has quite enough impact on odor-causing bacteria.
On the application of lemon juice, citric acid fights off the bacteria and removes odor.
It creates a light protecting layer that prevents bacteria from forming again.
Lemon juice is beneficial for the skin in many other ways as well. It helps your skin to look bright and lightens up the dark skin.
So, you can use lemon juice for a fresh smelling body and good skin with no worries at all.
Here’s the easiest way to use lemon juice for body odor:
Dab a cotton ball in the lemon juice and apply on the areas of your body that sweat a lot. Repeat this on alternate days fifteen minutes before taking a shower.
14. Tomato Juice
This great ingredient for your salad bowl also works as an effective body odor remover. [21]
You must know its power of eliminating body odor, especially if you have a dog.
Tomato belongs to the nightshade family and contains glycoalkaloids.
Glycoalkaloids are natural pesticides that kill the bacteria and viruses on your skin.
Its natural disinfecting agent can kill the odor-causing bacteria. Besides, it can shrink your pores as well.
Try this simple tomato juice bath to get rid of body odor:
Add 2 cups of fresh tomato juice in a bathtub full of warm water. Sit in the tub and relax for 20-30 minutes. Repeat this process 3-4 times a week.
15. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple Cider Vinegar is a natural alternative to your store brought body sprays. [22]
Its acidic nature eliminates the odor-causing bacteria and prevents their growth as well.
Sweat creates an alkaline environment that apple cider vinegar can neutralize. It also maintains the pH balance of your skin while eliminating the bacteria.
Try several ways of using apple cider vinegar to get rid of body odor:
Method 1:
Take some raw, unfiltered ACV and dip a cotton ball in it. Apply it to your armpits, as well as other body parts prone to create an odor.
Method 2:
Mix a cup of water with 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar and use it as a natural body spray.
16. Neem
Neem is quite popular herb because it contains so many medicinal values. [23]
It can clean your body and remove the harmful toxins that may contribute to body odor.
Its antifungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties can kill the odor-causing bacteria.
Try these different ways of using neem leaves to get rid of body odor:
Method 1:
Create a smooth paste by grinding some neem leaves and two tsp of water. Apply this paste to your armpit, and other sweat-prone areas. Wait till it becomes dry and wash off with warm water.
Method 2:
Add a handful of fresh neem leaves in a cup of water and boil it. Strain the solution and add it into your bath water. Take your regular bath using the water
Some Tips and Precautions
- Do a sensitivity test before the application of any of the above methods. Apply a minimal amount of the ingredients on a tiny part of your skin and see if anything happens.
- Maintain good hygiene.
- Maintain a healthy diet and avoid too much consumption of meat, onion, and broccoli.
- Refrain yourself from eating too many junk foods.
- Drink lots of water.
- Take regular showers.
- Stop drinking too much alcohol as alcohol intensifies body odor.
- Wear fresh and clean clothes.
- If you sweat too much, keep wet tissues with you always.
- Don’t apply too many products on your skin. Because it may clog your pores turning your skin into an abode for the odor causing germs and bacteria.
- If you have excess sweating, consult a doctor and take prescribed medications.
Bottom Line
A beautiful dress, cute shoes, even your smile can fail to impress someone if you don’t smell good.
A body odor is the symbol of your unhygienic life and unhealthy diet.
It can have negative effect your confidence and social interactions with people.
Get rid of body odor right away with the help of these safe but effective natural methods.
Use these methods, smell good and fresh, become your role model.
If the sweating or odor becomes severe, you can consult a doctor.
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