When bacteria attacks the fatty sweat produced by the apocrine sweat glands, underarm odor develops.

This odor not just creates an irritating smell affecting you, but most especially the person beside you; and this is a major turn-off for men towards the ladies.

To treat this problem, you must always keep your underarms clean and dry. In general, getting rid of underarm odor using home remedies is just as easy as 1-2-3.

General Hygiene and Cleanliness

Before anything else, remember that daily bathing significantly reduces the bacteria in your underarms, keeping the odor in control; a simple yet a big solution to your problem.

In places where the climate is warmer, sweating becomes more frequent which may require you to wash at least twice a day.

By the way, when you are using chemical deodorants and antiperspirant, you may be restricting your sweat glands which may cause a more odorous bacteria to breed; so make sure you read the label, use only those which the anti-bacterial formula.

On the other hand, herbal remedies may cause you allergic reactions so consult your doctor before adding herbs to your daily routine.

Below are three ways of getting rid of underarm odor using herbs.

Lavender for Underarm Odor (Lavandula officinalis)

Lavender is a shrubby bush that usually grows to about a meter tall and a meter and a half in diameter. From June to September, it produces aromatic spiky flowers from which an essential oil, for healing and perfume, is extracted. Because of its antibacterial property, it will kill bacteria which causes odor.

Lavender Oil Recipe

Ingredients and some of the things you will need
1 to 2 Cups of Lavender buds or flowers (available here)
A Cup of Olive Oil
About 7 Capsules of Vitamin E (you may adjust the quantity slightly)
A sterilized Jar with a tight fitting lid (about 500ml capacity)
Glass pot
Glass bowl
A fine mesh strainer or a cheesecloth
A Coffee filter

Directions

- Boil the olive oil until bubbles starts to appear at the edge of the pot.
- Place the lavender and let it simmer for at least half an hour on low.
- Take it and let it cool to room temperature
- Through a large strainer, strain in batches then strain it again through a coffee filter.
- Take the vitamin E and place it on the mixture, make sure not to include the capsules.
- Pour it into a sterilized jar.
- Refrigerate

Whenever the temperature gets cold, the mixture becomes cloudy but as soon as the temperature goes back to normal, it becomes clear again. You can place a portion in a refrigerator for later uses, its effectiveness and fragrance will last for four to six months.

Thyme for Underarm Odor (Thymus vulgaris)

Thyme is widely recognized for its strong flavor which is caused by thymol, one of its main content. The essential oil of Thyme contains about 20-56% thymol; because of this, the antibacterial power of Thyme is enhanced.

Thyme Oil Combo Recipe
 
1. Steeped Thyme Oil
In a heavy saucepan, place the thyme herb and dry roast it. Add a cup of canola oil and heat it over low heat, stir it continuously for 15 minutes. Have this cooled overnight. Using a fine wire mesh, strain the oil to remove the thyme herbs; this mixture can be kept in the refrigerator for two to three weeks.

2. Thyme and Lemon Infused Oil
 
Ingredients
2 tablespoon of Lemon Zest
At least 10 twigs of Thyme (available here)
2 cloves garlic
2 and a half cups of olive oil

Direction
- Dry roast the thyme leaves.
- Smash the garlic with the back of the kitchen knife; place it in the sterilized glass bottle together with the lemon zest and the dry roasted thyme.
- For at least two weeks, let the mixture stand in a cool place.
- Let it stand in a cool place for a few weeks before using.

Note
Due to the presence of thymol, the mixture should always be used with a carrier oil. There are some cautions you need to take note: 1) It can cause irregularity of menstrual cycle, 2) can have a harmful effect on pregnant women, and 3) it can cause skin irritation on people with sensitive skin. For more recipes, information, and helpful advices about herbs please check out Online store.