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What causes body odor? -

Body odor is mainly caused by bacteria that live on our skin. The odor occurs when they break down the proteins in our sweat. There are, however, other factors that can contribute to body odor.

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Can it be genetic? -

There is a condition called trimethylaminuria, which can cause foul fish-like body odor, but this is quite rare.

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What foods cause body odor? -

Spicy and sulfur-rich foods are the main culprits. Two of the most common of the latter are onions and garlic.

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What foods cause body odor? -

But other foods such as broccoli and cabbage also contain sulfur, and can therefore contribute to body odor.

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Diabetes -

A fruity-smelling breath and changes in body odor can be an indicator of diabetes. If you suspect this your case, you should see a physician for a proper diagnosis.

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Homemade remedies -

All this accounted for, there are homemade remedies that will help most people.

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Peppermint oil -

You can mix it with water and apply it directly, or try the following: mix 10 drops of peppermint oil, 4 tbsp of cornstarch, 4 tbsp of coconut/jojoba oil, 4 tbsp of baking soda, and water. Refrigerate the mixture and use it as required.

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Parsley -

Rich in chlorophyll, parsley has been used for years to combat bad breath and bad odor in general. Just boil some parsley leaves in water for about five minutes, and drink the infusion.

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Cornstarch -

Cornstarch has antibacterial properties, making it a great alternative to deodorants. Simply dust some on your underarms (or other sweaty areas).

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Rose water -

Not only does it smell great, rose water is also astringent, which will make your pores contract. Put 3 tbsp in a spray bottle mixed with 1 tbsp of apple cider vinegar, and voila!

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Arrowroot -

Arrowroot has anti-inflammatory properties and can be helpful in treating things like itches and rashes. It's also great to keep the skin dry, so applying it directly on your underarms, or other sweaty areas, can be beneficial.

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Lemon juice -

Lemon is acidic and therefore lowers the PH of your skin, essentially killing any odor-causing bacteria. You can rub lemon halves directly on your armpits, allow it to dry, and then wash it off. Mix it with water if you have sensitive skin.

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Fennel seeds -

Fennel seeds can help prevent body odor, including bad breath. Crush fennel seeds, mix with a cup of water, and bring to a boil. Strain and then consume it. You can add some honey for flavor. Chewing fennel seeds after a meal is particularly helpful in neutralizing bad odors in your mouth.

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Lavender oil -

Try this deodorant powder: mix 10 drops of lavender essential oil with 3 tsp of cornstarch and 2 tsp of baking soda. Store it in a cool, dark place for a few days, and it's ready to use.

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Coconut oil -

Rich in lauric acid, coconut oil can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria. You can apply some directly, or mix it with 1 tsp of citric acid powder and water, and apply it before you step out of the shower.

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Neem leaves -

These have antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiseptic properties. Grind the leaves and make a paste. Apply it on sweaty areas and let it dry before removing it. You can also boil leaves and add the water to a bath.

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Witch hazel -

Witch hazel has astringent properties and it's acidic (lowering the skin's PH, so odor-causing bacteria won't survive). Add a few drops on a cotton ball or pad, and apply directly to the sweaty area.

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Tea tree oil -

Antibacterial and antiseptic, tea tree oil can help reduce body odor. Dilute 2 tsp of tea tree oil in 2 tbsp of water, and apply directly on your underarms and/or other sweaty areas.

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Alcohol -

The antibacterial properties of alcohol are well known. Rubbing cotton pads soaked with a bit of alcohol can help reduce local body odor. Just beware that it can irritate you skin in more sensitive areas.

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Tomato juice -

Astringent and acidic, tomato juice can be great at reducing body odor. The best way to do it, however, is not by drinking it. Instead, try soaking in a bathtub filled with water and 2 cups of tomato juice for about 20-30 minutes.

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Baking soda -

Baking soda is known for absorbing moisture, so it can help, particularly if you sweat a lot. You can apply it directly in powder form, or make a paste using a few drops of water. The latter can be washed off after 10-15 minutes.

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Tea bags -

Rich in tannins, tea can help your skin stay dry. Boil 2 liters of water, add 4 tea bags, and then add it to your bath water.  Soak in it for 15-20 minutes, about three times a week.

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Green tea -

Green tea is known for being rich in antioxidants and tannic acid. Prepare a teapot of green tea, let it cool and then apply it to the sweaty areas you want to target.

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Fenugreek tea -

Rich in antioxidants and boasting antibacterial properties, fenugreek tea can be an effective tool in reducing body odor. Add 1 tsp of fenugreek seeds to 250 ml of water, boil it until the water reduces to half, and then drink it.

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Epsom salt -

Epsom salt baths are not only great to help you relax, but also to help eliminate body odor. Add 2 to 3 cups to your bath water, and soak in it.

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Milk of Magnesia -

Magnesium hydroxide is an antacid commonly used as a laxative. It can work on skin by leaving it dry and odor-free. You can apply it directly or mix it with a few drops of your favorite essential oil.

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Sage oil -

Sage oil is antibacterial, and has a nice fragrance as an added benefit. You can dilute it with water and apply it directly on your skin. Alternatively, soak dry sage in hot water and apply it. Beware that sage shouldn't be used on sensitive areas.

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Tamanu oil -

Tamanu oil has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antimicrobial properties. It can be applied directly or mixed with the following essential oils: lavender, tea tree, or peppermint.

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Apple cider vinegar -

There are many uses for apple cider vinegar, including being a deodorant alternative. You can apply it directly, or mix it with water. A cotton ball or pad will do the job.

Source: (Stylecraze)

See also: Surprising uses and effects of apple cider vinegar

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