You are in Living Better . That's of interest to the chemically sensitive and anyone else who wants to smell sweeter while avoiding the sort of deodorants and antiperspirants sold in drug stores. Perspiration itself is normally odorless and serves a natural function in helping the body regulate temperature. When bacteria populating the skin decompose the perspiration, they create by-products, which are the source of the odor. Thus, cleanliness and hygiene are essential for preventing this problem.
Most deodorants inhibit the growth of bacteria.
If you've tried a lot of deodorants and antiperspirants to no avail, there may be other causes of your problem. An article in the February 1999 issue of Cutis , reviewing the available research on body odor, explains that the problem may also be caused by sweat containing high levels of food substances, such as garlic or other constituents from spicy foods. An undesirable scent can also be caused by zinc deficiency, liver disease, diabetes or gastrointestinal disorders that lead to poor or incomplete digestion, according to the researchers. These possible causes should be ruled out by a health care provider. The herb can be taken internally in a variety of forms and externally as an undiluted alcohol extract.