Bromhidrosis or body odour is a specific smell an individual has, due to bacterial overgrowth on the skin. The smell is often unpleasant and is related to the specific secretion of sudoriferous (sweat) glands. Most commonly it comprises pheromones, substances that make our unique personal scent.
One’s body odour gets worse under certain conditions, increased bacterial activity due to over sweating as well as a sign of disease (S1). Although, the sweat glands are distributed on various parts of the body (not described here) the unpleasant odour is often localised within the armpit area.
What can be done to alleviate the problem that may affect your social/work relationships as well as causing psychological distress?
Typical therapy options include:
- The use of germicidal soap to control the bacterial biofilm;
- Regular shaving of underarm;
- The use of antibacterial garments, impregnated with silver or copper;
- The use of crystal deodorants – that is chunks of salt applied immediately after showering;
- Surgery or botox injections;
- And more recently underarm microbial transplants (S2)*
Of course, BIBI Therapy recommends first you try natural therapies. Particularly, it praises the use of essential oils as they have proven benefits for the skin microbiome, in general.
When dealing with a lot of Body Odour the most acceptable antiseptic and anti-bacterial essential oils according to Valerie Ann Worwood are: Lavender, Pine, Thyme, Eucalyptus, Lemon and Bergamot (S3). Not only, using these oils is beneficial for the skin, but you can also formulate your own Deodorant powder or eau de colognes even create your own perfume in an easy way.
You can take control of all aromatic requirements if maintaining natural purity free of any harmful chemicals is important for you.
For more information on how to formulate your own deodorant or perfume, let’s stay connected!
Precautions
If you have a sensitive skin, make sure you conduct a patch test before you splash essential oils under your armpit. Furthermore, dilute 2-3 drops with a teaspoon of carrier oil of your choice and remember to check with your family Doctor before attempting to use any essential oil. This is especially important if you are pregnant, nursing or undertaking any special medication including homeopathic medication.
Disclaimer
BIBI Therapy does not offer a cure for bromhidrosis. The information and reference guides are intended solely for the general information. Please seek advice from a specialist or your health care provider if you require any advice on medications.
* Dr Chris Callewaert, known as Dr Armpit, plans new clinical trials this year, February-April 2018, in Belgium. Contact at info@drarmpit.com if interested.
References
S1 M J Olsson et al, (2014), Psychological Science, 25 (3): 817-823, https://doi.org/10.1177/0956797613515681.
S2 C Calewaert et al (2013), Plos One, August 2013 , https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0070538
S3 Valerie Ann Worwood, The Fragrant Pharmacy: A complete guide to Aromatherapy & Essential Oils, London, 1991