26 DIY Home Remedies for Body Odor

Excessive and unpleasant body odor can be very embarrassing and discomforting. Body odor occurs when excessive sweat mixes with bacteria. The bacteria breaks down the sweat into acids which is the reason behind the unpleasant smell.

Poor hygiene, gastrointestinal problems, nutrient deficiencies, metabolic disorder,, and diabetes are some of the reasons for body odor.

Generally, we use deodorants and antiperspirants to deal with body odor. They can only mask the odor for few hours but are inefficient in dealing the root problem.

With proper hygiene, nutritional food, and few home remedies, one can easily control body odor.

Home Remedies for Body Odor:

We have various ingredients present in our kitchen that are effective in treating body odor. For your convenience, we have listed them below with a detailed description. Choose any method and try it regularly to see the difference.

1. Baking Soda

Baking soda absorbs the moisture and sweat which reduces the body odor. It also helps in killing the bacteria. It acts as a natural deodorant.

Process 1: with Lemon Juice

• Combine 1 tablespoon each of baking soda and lemon juice.
• Apply the mixture on the underarms and other body parts where you sweat a lot.
• Let the application rest for few minutes and rinse off with water.
• Note: Don’t scrub off the mixture.
• Rinse off the application or take a shower bath.
• Repeat the process daily for a few weeks to notice the results.

Process 2: With Corn Starch

• Combine equal amounts of baking soda and corn starch.
• Apply the mixture on the underarms.
• Repeat this process whenever you need to control sweat for several hours.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) fights against the bacteria which causes bad odor. It eliminates the body odor by balancing the pH levels of the skin. Use organic, raw, unfiltered and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar for best results.

Process 1:

• Pour few drops of raw and undiluted apple cider vinegar on a cotton ball.
• Apply this on the underarm areas.
• Let it dry for 2 – 3 minutes before washing it off with water.
• Repeat regularly.

Process 2:

• Add a cup of apple cider vinegar to your bath.
• Stir it well and soak in it for about 8 – 10 minutes.
• This is especially effective if used after exercising.

Process 3:

• Mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water.
• Stir well and add a little honey.
• Mix and drink thrice a day before meals.
• Drink regularly.

3. Lemon Juice

Lemon juice lowers the skin’s pH level, makes it difficult for odor producing bacteria to survive.

Process 1:

• Cut a lemon into two halves.
• Rub 1/2 lemon under the arms.
• Squeeze the lemon while rubbing to make sure the juice gets into the skin.
• Let it dry completely and take a shower.
• Repeat this remedy until you control body odor.

Process 2: For people with sensitive skin

• Dilute juice of 1/2 lemon into 1 1/2 cup of water.
• Using a cotton ball, apply it on the underarms.
• Let it dry for 10 minutes.
• Rinse off with water.
• Repeat the process daily until you notice the results.

Note: Lemon juice may cause stinging sensation if applied after shaving. It is better to avoid lemon juice application for at least a day after shaving.

4. Witch Hazel

It helps to lower the pH level which makes it impossible to survive for the bacteria causing body odor. The astringent properties of witch hazel shrink the open pores and reduce the sweat production.

• Dip a cotton ball in witch hazel.
• Apply it on the underarms.
• Leave it to dry.
• Repeat this process whenever your body starts smells. It acts as antiperspirant and stops the sweating and smell.

Note: You should not use deodorant if you are using witch hazel.

5. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has natural anti-bacterial and antiseptic properties that help to kill the bacteria and fungi present on the skin’s surface. Its astringent agent controls the sweating. Test before use to avoid irritation.

Process:

• Add 2 tablespoon of water to 2 drops of tea tree oil and stir well.
• Apply to the armpits and leave.
• You can also use in replacement of your regular deodorant.

6. Sage

Sage herb is very helpful in treating body odor. It restricts the activity of sweat glands. Apart from that, its antibacterial properties will combat the bacterial growth on the skin.

Process 1:

• Mix sage essential oil with any carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil.
• Mix it well and apply on the underarms or pulse points.
• Leave for a few minutes to dry before wearing clothes.
• Repeating this regularly.

Process 2:

• Stir 2 teaspoons of dried herbal sage in a cup of hot water.
• Allow it to steep for 15 minutes and then strain.
• Discard the leaves and drink this tea regularly.
• Note: Avoid drinking more than 2 cups of sage tea per day. Pregnant and nursing women should avoid sage drinking sage tea.

Process 3:

• Add 2 teaspoons of dried sage to a ¼ liter of hot water.
• Allow it to steep for about 5 – 8 minutes.
• Use the solution to wash your underarms or pulse points.
• Wash your hands after use.
• Use this regularly.

Process 4: Natural Deodorant with Sage Oil

• Combine 5 drops each of sage, coriander, and lavender essential oils.
• Add this mixture to 2 ounces of distilled witch hazel.
• Pour the solution into a spray bottle.
• Spray it daily as a deodorant on the sweaty areas.

7. Rosemary

Rosemary restricts the growth of odor-causing bacteria. The menthol and chlorophyll present in rosemary have deodorant properties which neutralize body odor. Apart from that, it will also provide a nice fragrance to the body. It also controls the deficiency of zinc (one of the causes of body odor), as it is rich in it.

Process 1:

• To 4 cups of water, add 1 1/2 cup of dried rosemary leaves.
• Cover and let it steep for 10 minutes.
• Add the solution to your bathtub filled with water.
• Soak for 15 – 20 minutes and pat the skin dry.
• Repeat this process daily to smell great whole day.
• Alternatively, you can add 10 drops of rosemary oil into 1 ounce of water and apply it on underarms as a deodorant.

Process 2:

• Grind the dried herb.
• Use the powder on armpits or pulse points to fight against the odor and to keep your body fresh.
• Repeat this as needed.

Discontinue using the herb if you experience any irritation or itching.

8. Tomato Juice

The antiseptic properties of the tomato fight off the bacteria causing body odor. Apart from that, it also reduces sweating and shrinks the pores.

• Take 7 to 8 tomatoes and crush them gently.
• Extract the juice from the crushed tomatoes.
• Add the tomato juice to your bath water.
• Take bath with this water and pat dry.
• Repeat the process daily.

For extra benefits, drink 1 – 2 glasses of tomato juice daily to control the body odor.

9. Wheat Grass

Wheatgrass contains chlorophyll that kills the bacteria causing body odor and makes you feel and smell great. However, it has a strong taste that could make you feel nauseas. So start with small amounts and have on an empty stomach.

Process:

• Stir 2 tablespoons of wheatgrass juice in a cup of water.
• Drink this on empty stomach in the morning.
• Have this regularly.

10. Turnip Juice

The antibacterial properties of turnip deal with the bacteria causing body odor. Turnips are rich in vitamin C and other nutrients which are helpful in fighting off the body odor.

Process:

• Cut a turnip into pieces.
• Crush into a fine paste and press through a sieve to extract its juice.
• Apply this juice to the armpits and groin area.
• Let it dry completely and wash it off using lukewarm water.
• Repeat this process daily in the morning. This helps you to combat body odor for at least 10 minutes.

You can also include these turnips in your diet to fend off the problem.

11. Homemade Natural Deodorant

Aluminum based deodorant controls the odor but damages the skin. Natural deodorant is safe and can be easily made at home using simple natural ingredients.

Ingredients:

• Lavender essential oil – 5 drops
• Coriander essential oil – 5 drops
• Sage essential oil – 5 drops
• Witch hazel (distilled) – 2 ounce
• Spray top bottle – 1

Process:

• Take equal quantities of all essential oils and witch hazel (of about 60 ml).
• Stir well and store in an empty spray bottle.
• Use in replacement of your deodorant.
• This process helps to get rid of the body odor without harming your skin.

12. Herbal Deodorant Powder (Homemade)

Ingredients:

• Sandalwood powder – 2 parts
• White oak bark powder – 1 part
• Lovage root powder – 1 part
• Muslin draw sting bag
• Food processor or blender
• Pan

Process:

• Blend all the ingredients into a fine powder.
• Place in a pan and toast for a short while.
• Fill a muslin bag with this powdered herb.
• Pat the bag on the underarms or on the feet to prevent the bacteria.

13. Unscented Liquid Deodorant

Ingredients:

• Alum powder – 4 teaspoons
• Baking soda – 2 teaspoons
• Rubbing alcohol – 225 ml
• Empty spray bottle

Process:

• Mix all the ingredients together.
• Store in a spray bottle and use when needed.
• Repeating this regularly.

14. Holy Basil

Holy basil leaves contain antiseptic property which is helpful in treating body odor.

• Take some holy basil leaves and crush them.
• Add few drops of tea tree oil to the crushed leaves and mix well.
• Apply the mixture to the underarms.
• Let it dry and rinse off with water.
• Note: Don’t use soap after rinsing off the mixture. But you can use deodorant.

15. Mint Bath

Mint contains antiseptic properties. It kills the bacteria and reduces the toxins content as well.

• Add few mint leaves into 4 cups of water.
• Bring this mixture to boil and remove from the flame.
• Add this solution to your bath water.
• Soak in it for 10 minutes and pat dry.
• Repeat the process once in 2 days to observe the results.

16. Hydrogen Peroxide

If underarms odor is not treated on time it can lead to infections. Hydrogen peroxide is one of the best ways to remove the bad odor from armpits.

• To a cup of water, add 1 teaspoon of hydrogen peroxide.
• Soak a clean washcloth in to the solution.
• Wring out the excess and place it on the underarms.
• Leave it for some time and pat dry.
• Alternatively, you can rub some hydrogen peroxide on the underarms.
• Repeat the process regularly.

17. Radish

• Take 2 dozens of radish and extract juice from them.
• Add enough amounts of glycerin into the radish juice and stir well.
• Pour this solution into a spray bottle.
• Store in the refrigerator and use it daily as a deodorant.
• Note: Make sure to shake the bottle well before use.

18. Peppermint Oil

The antibacterial properties of peppermint oil kill the bacteria causing bad odor.

• Rub few drops of peppermint oil under your arms and leave it to dry.
• Repeat this process regularly to combat the body odor.

19. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil helps in treating many skin problems and body odor as well.

• Add few drops of lavender oil into the water.
• Pour this solution into a spray bottle.
• Shake well and spray the solution on the armpits to remove odor.
• Store in refrigerator for future use.
• Alternatively, you can rub few drops of lavender oil on the armpits.

Note:   People allergic to lavender oil should avoid using it. It is better to patch test before using lavender oil.

20. Parsley

Parsley contains anti-odor properties which help to remove the dirty smell from the underarms.

• To a cup of boiling water, add 1 teaspoon of chopped parlsey leaves.
• Let it simmer for 5 minutes and remove from the flame.
• Strain and let it cool down until lukewarm.
• Drink this tea.
• Alternatively, you can chew fresh parsley leaves or any green leafy vegetable to combat the body odor.

21. Lettuce

Lettuce is considered one of the best herbal remedies to prevent body odor.

• Extract juice from lettuce leaves.
• Rub the juice directly on the armpits.
• Leave it to dry completely.
• Repeat regularly.

Tip: For best results, it is better to apply after taking bath. You can store the remaining lettuce juice in the refrigerator for future use.

22. Walnut Leaves

• Blend few ground walnut leaves and eucalyptus to make a paste.
• Apply it on the underarms.
• Leave it to dry and rinse off with water.

23. Herbal Mixture

This herbal mixture provides relief from smelly feet and underarms.

• Combine witch hazel leaves, walnut leaves, eucalyptus leaves, oak bark and tormentil root.
• Blend the mixture to make a paste.
• Add 5 tablespoons of this mixture to 2 liters of water.
• Boil the solution for 5 minutes.
• Remove from flame and let it cool down.
• Now add 1 liter of water to the solution and take a bath with it.

24. Sandalwood Powder

The soothing aroma of sandalwood powder helps in removing the foul underarm odor.

• Combine enough amounts of sandalwood powder and water to make a paste.
• Apply the paste on the underarms.
• Leave it to dry completely.
• Rinse off with clean water.
• Alternatively, you can use vinegar instead of water.
• Repeat regularly.

Tip: For effective results, it is better to apply after taking the bath.

25. Alum

Alum acts as a natural deodorant. It is very helpful in treating body odor.

• Add some water to a piece of alum.
• Rub it gently under the arms.
• Let it dry completely.
• Repeat regularly.

Note: Make sure to rub the armpits with the blunt side of the alum piece.

26. Baby Powder

The mild fragrance of baby powder helps in eliminating the body odor. All you have to do is apply some baby powder to the armpits.

Diet Plan:

You body smell usually depends on what you eat. So it is very important to exclude or include certain foods in your daily diet. Here are few suggestions to consider for controlling body odor.

• Have a balanced diet that includes proteins, whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables (particularly green leafy vegetables), healthy fats, pulses, and fish or lean poultry.
• Always drink plenty of water which helps to eliminate the toxins from the body.
• Don’t eat too much spicy food, onions and garlic.
• Foods that don’t digest properly produce toxins which create the pungent body odor. For example fried meat.
• Stop or completely limit the usage of refined sugar, white flour and fats, etc. which are commonly found in the junk and processed foods.
• Avoid caffeinated beverages, tea, coffee, colas and alcohol.
• Always have high fiber food for better digestion.
• Try to include many herbs like coriander, mint, parsley, oregano, etc. in your diet. Also, chew fennel seeds after your meals for better digestion.

Best Tips to Prevent the Body Odor:

• Always wear loose – fittings clothes, made with light weight and breathable fabrics that help to manage the perspiration by trapping moisture. Never wear unwashed clothes.
• Bathe twice daily but do not use too strong a soap.
• Remove hair from armpits and other body parts regularly. Hair traps sweat and makes it breeding grounds for bacteria.
• Reduce stress by practicing yoga, meditation.
• Completely dry your body after a bath or shower.
• Use arnica in cream form to help combat the body odor and perspiration. It also helps to kill the bacteria causing odor. Do a patch test before use.
• Pour a few drops of rosewater in your bath to prevent odor.
• Exercise regularly to release the toxins through sweating.
• Detoxify your body to reduce body odor.
• Use oil blotting paper to wipe away the sweat as these papers are very effective in absorbing the moisture. So rub on your armpits.
• Quit smoking.
• Avoid wearing unwashed clothes. Wash your clothes once you have worn them.
• Stay dry. Moisture encourages bacterial growth. Make sure to dry the skin folds properly after bathing.

If any of these remedies didn’t work then consult a healthcare provider or dermatologist to analyse the problem behind the odor.

Have tried any of these remedies? Do you have any other remedy that works better than this? Please share your experience and suggestions in the comments section below.