5 Simple And Effective Natural Home Remedies To Help Fight Body Odour

Sweating is one way the body regulates its temperature. However, the accompanying body odour can be a major turn-off. The use of perfumes and deodorants can help mask the odour but only for a short period. Plus, there is a lot of debate over the use of chemicals while making deodorants and their effects on the human body. Fortunately, use of natural home remedies can help prevent body odour to a great extent. These work by reduction of excessive sweating of the underarms, feet and other areas of the body and curbing bacterial growth.

What causes body odour?

Body odour occurs when the bacteria that lives on the skin breaks down the protein present in sweat into different acids. People often have the misconception that it is the growth of bacteria in the skin that results in bad body odour. However, it is the process that produces the unpleasant smell. The armpits, feet, groin, genitals and belly button are the most likely areas to emanate strong body odour.

Some causes of bad body odour include a poor hygiene, deficiencies in nutrition, gastrointestinal problems such as chronic constipation, and even medical problems like genetic metabolic disorders and liver disease.

Home remedies for body odour

So, what can one do to deal with bad body odour? Here is a list of home remedies that can help.

1. Apple cider vinegar

It is known for its ability to kill and prevent bacterial formation as it is acidic in nature. When bacteria are not allowed to thrive and grow, it can prevent the occurrence of foul body odour.

What you need:

• Apple cider vinegar
• Cotton balls
• Water (this is optional)

What to do:

• Apple cider vinegar can be applied directly to the underarms or other body parts with the help of a cotton ball.
• One can always mix half a cup of apple cider vinegar with one cup of water, and use as a deodorant.

2. Fenugreek tea

Fenugreek is a powerful antioxidant, which helps flush out all the toxins from the body. It also possesses anti-bacterial properties and inhibits bacterial infection from spreading further by treating the root of the problem.

What you need:

• Fenugreek seeds (1 teaspoon)
• 250ml of water

What to do:

• Add the seeds to a cup of water and boil it until the quantity of water reduces to a half.
• Drink this on an empty stomach every morning.

3. Lavender oil

Lavender oil prevents and stops the growth of bacteria, which causes odour. The floral essence of lavender oil is a bonus. Add corn starch and baking soda, which helps keep the skin dry, thus preventing the accumulation of bacteria.

What you need:

• Lavender essential oil (10 drops)
• Cornstarch (3 teaspoons)
• Baking soda (2 teaspoons)

What to do:

• Take the three ingredients and mix them well to make a paste.
• Store the mixture in a dark, secluded place for a couple of days.
• Apply this mixture to the affected area.

4. Green tea

Green tea is known for its many health benefits. Consuming green tea regularly on an empty stomach can help you deal with body odour. The antioxidants and tannic acid present in green tea help combat body odour from within. Also, using it as an external application helps inhibit the bacteria by keeping the skin dry.

What you need:

• Green tea leaves (1 teaspoon)
• Water

What to do:

• Boil enough water in a pot and add the green tea leaves.
• Allow the green tea to cool and then apply this mixture to the sweat-prone areas of the body.

5. Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)

Baking soda effectively absorbs moisture, and hence, prevents the formation of sweat. It not only restricts bacterial growth on the skin, but also alkalises the bodily fluids and neutralises the foul odour.

What you need:

• Baking soda (1 tablespoon)
• Water

What to do:

• Put the baking soda on a bowl and use a brush to apply it on the sweat-prone areas of the body.
• Dust of any extra powder and attend to other chores.
• Leave it on for about 10-15 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water.
• Alternatively, add some water to the powder and mix it to make a paste.
• Apply this paste to the underarms.
• Leave it on for about 10-15 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water.

Natural home remedies for body odour are a far better alternative than using deodorants and antiperspirants which may cause skin irritation. Go ahead and try out these five simple home remedies to help your teen avoid embarrassment from body odour and regain his confidence.