Under certain circumstances, an embarrassing underarm odor can occur. This can be due to the use of certain medications, excessive alcohol consumption and many other reasons. Strong armpit odor not only causes discomfort, but can also lead to problems in social and professional relationships. Due to this intense smell, people spend a lot of money on powerful deodorants to get rid of underarm odor. However, the effects of these deodorants are often temporary and do not solve the problem. To help you out, we’ve got some home remedies you may use to get rid of strong underarm odor!
Causes of Strong Underarm Odor
There are many bacteria present in the armpits. Normally, these are harmless bacteria and are responsible for the normal sweaty smell during exercise. However, when certain types of bacteria are present in large numbers (collinear bacteria), a foul odor is produced. This can occur under certain circumstances. The most common ones include:
Excessive Sweating
Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for “excessive sweating”. This symptom often appears in the armpits, hands (sweaty palms), and feet (sweaty feet). At least once a week, there is an episode of profuse sweating without excessive exercise. Hyperhidrosis can be caused by menopause, hypoglycemia, and hyperthyroidism. Treatment is through Botox injections and, in extreme cases, surgery to sever the nerves that supply the sweat glands.
Excessive Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol consumption causes sweaty odor (underarms) and bad breath. The liver removes toxins (poisons) from the body through urine, but excessive alcohol intake can cause liver damage. This causes toxins to accumulate in the body, resulting in an unpleasant underarm odor. It is advisable to avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
Self-care for Unpleasant Armpit Odor
There are home remedies that can improve underarm odor. In addition to these self-care tips, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle by drinking at least eight glasses of water a day, eating a healthy diet, and exercising regularly.
Alcohol
You can get rid of underarm odor by gently rubbing alcohol into your armpits. This will close the pores. It evaporates easily and reduces the odor. If needed, alcohol can be mixed with water, and the patient can wash the underarms with this mixture.
Lemon
Due to its acidic nature, lemon kills the bacteria that cause body odor. Additionally, lemon balances the acidity of the skin. Put a drop or two of lemon juice under the armpits and rub gently for a few minutes. Optionally, patients can mix a small amount of lemon juice in a glass of water and use it as a natural deodorant for the poor.
Sandalwood Powder
Sandalwood powder has a calming scent and is effective against armpit odor. Mix sandalwood powder with enough water to make a fine paste. They apply this paste to your armpits and leave it on for a few minutes. After that, you can rinse it.
Baking Soda
Baking soda kills the bacteria that causes underarm odor. The combination of baking soda and cornstarch absorbs excess sweat so that it does not cause underarm odor. A few applications of this mixture on your underarms will give you satisfactory results.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an excellent alternative to deodorant, and it has antibacterial properties. It prevents bacteria from growing under your armpits. Applying apple cider vinegar to your armpits (using a cotton ball) will balance the skin’s acidity and eliminate underarm odor. If necessary, you can also use a spray of apple cider vinegar mixed with water.
Do you have any other tips? Share it with us in the comments below!
