Natural Deodorants
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10 Simple Tips for Underarm Odor Problems
Underarm sweating is normal and beneficial for people. Sweat helps keep the body cool and eliminates toxins. Body aroma is natural, as well. Although underarm odor is common, if it becomes too strong, most people want to lose that odor.
First of all, it’s important to understand that underarm sweat has very little or no odor on its own. However, it is warm and moist under the arms. This is an ideal environment for bacteria. Odor-causing bacteria live in the pores, especially at the base of hairs. Bacteria colonies grow and thrive. The subsequent breakdown of chemicals causes the underarm odor. The goal, then, of natural deodorants, is to make the underarm skin undesirable for bacterial growth. 10. Shower Every Day
The first line of attack is to wash the underarms thoroughly. A shower is best, but to save time you might just wash with warm water and mild soap. Keep washcloths or paper towels near the sink. It’s important to clear out the bacteria colonies BEFORE you apply any kind of deodorant. You might try washing three times a day until the odor is under control. After that, daily washes will control bacteria and odor. 9. Wear Natural Fiber Clothing
Synthetic fibers, including those in athletic wear, tend to collect bacteria colonies. And they may not clear in the washing machine. So even though you put on a clean shirt, you may be transporting the odor-causing bacteria right back into your armpits. For some reason, the bacteria seem to hide out in the synthetic fibers. Natural cotton, silk, linen, or wool do not seem to have that effect. 8. Eat Your Vegetables
Diets high in plain vegetables raw or cooked are naturally healthy and balanced. Try this recipe for making baked kale chips for a green vegetable snack. With Meals Chlorophyll or wheat grass may act as natural body deodorizers. Take these supplements along with the meal. After Meals Parsley and alfalfa can help to neutralize strong food scents. Chew on the leafy greens immediately after a meal. 7. Watch Your Vitamins and Minerals
Be sure your diet includes adequate magnesium and zinc. Leafy greens and vegetables are high in magnesium. Beans, nuts, and seafood are good sources of zinc. Shoot for the balanced diet or supplement with vitamins. 6. Avoid Certain Foods and Beverages
Some foods, such as garlic and onions, may be scented in the sweat. This is true of some strong spices and curry. Eliminate the suspected food out of your diet for a time and wee what happens when you add it back into your foods. Alcoholic beverages and caffeine in coffee, tea, or soda may also contribute. Stop drinking coffee or at least cut down to see if there is a difference. 5. Stop Tobacco
No, no, and no! It may contribute to underarm odor. It will also create an all-over body odor, including the breath, hair, and clothing. 4. Switch to Herbals
Stop buying harsh commercial deodorants. Instead, use cotton pads or a small sprayer to apply witch hazel or apple cider vinegar to your underarms. These two herbals actually change the pH of the skin so bacteria is discouraged from growing. Witch hazel is a natural astringent, that closes up the pores making it harder for bacteria get started. Also, diluted rosemary or sage make nice additions to herbal deodorants. 
3. Dust with Cornstarch or Baking Soda
Wash underarms and thoroughly pat dry. Dust the underarms with cornstarch to reduce wetness. Baking soda is also effective as both an odor eater and a drying duster. 2. Apply Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural bacteria killer. Bacteria feed on the sweat naturally produced under the arms. The breakdown of chemicals in the bacterial growth is the source of body odor. Tea tree oil is typically diluted or added to other natural deodorant substances in commercial deodorant preparations. 1. Use a Solid Crystal
The easiest approach may be to wash your underarms thoroughly, then apply a solid deodorant crystal. Simply moisten the crystal and rub gently over the skin. Note that the crystal is potassium alum, which is a natural aluminum salt. The alum crystal is different than the aluminum chlorohydrate or aluminum zirconium that many people wish to avoid. Alum changes the pH, thus making the skin undesirable to bacteria. And it is a natural astringent that tightens up the pores and sweat glands. A side benefit—the solid crystal is convenient to travel with; there’s no need to remove it from luggage in airport security. |
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Everyone sweats. And we all have a natural scent that is part of us. It’s even possible that the underarm odor you smell on yourself is barely noticeable to people around you. Try out some of the solutions above and find out which will work for you. Also, there are many natural and herbal deodorant choices available in most health food stores.
Please note that severe sweating or strong unusual odor may be a sign of a more serious medical condition, such as diabetes, thyroid problems, heart conditions, or hormonal imbalances. If you suspect any of these conditions, see a doctor or health professional. Did you enjoy reading this list? Find more articles like this at Well-Being. |
CommentsDo you have a response to this SimpleTens article about Natural Deodorants? Add a Comment to the discussion.
Posted 11/03/14
I like using all-natural deodorants, have been for years. I've done my fair share of experimenting and Lavilin has consistently been very effective for me. I love that is free of parabens and aluminum and another big plus is that it is long-lasting. Everyone is different, but I can usually go 3 days without having to re-apply. --Alyssa |
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