Effective Ways to Get Rid of Unpleasant Body Odor Naturally

Struggling with body odor can definitely affect your confidence. Not only does it make you feel insecure, but it can also make people around you uncomfortable—even if they don’t say it directly. Body odor differs from person to person. Some people produce a strong smell even with a little sweat, while others barely have an odor even when sweating heavily.

Several factors can cause body odor, including genetics, hormones, daily activities, diet, stress, and poor personal hygiene. Body odor can affect anyone, but studies show that it becomes more noticeable during puberty due to hormonal changes. At this stage, the body increases sweat production and hair growth in certain areas. Sweat released from the apocrine glands mixes with bacteria, which then triggers unpleasant body odor.

Natural Ways to Reduce and Prevent Body Odor

Body odor commonly appears in areas that sweat easily, such as the armpits and groin. However, it can occur anywhere when sweat, bacteria, and lack of hygiene combine. You can try several natural remedies to manage body odor safely and affordably:

1. Shower at Least Twice a Day

The most essential way to reduce body odor is by maintaining proper hygiene. Showering regularly helps remove dirt, bacteria, and sweat that build up on the skin. Be sure to use clean water and antibacterial soap to prevent germs from multiplying. Wash all areas of your body thoroughly to stay fresh throughout the day.

2. Betel Leaves

Betel leaves contain natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties that help reduce body odor.

How to use:

Crush a few fresh betel leaves until smooth.

Apply the paste all over your body and let it sit for about 10 minutes.

Rinse with warm water.

You can also drink boiled betel leaf water to help combat body odor from within.

3. Basil Leaves

Basil leaves, commonly eaten fresh, have a fragrant aroma and antibacterial properties, making them effective against body odor and bad breath. Simply eat cleaned basil leaves regularly as a side dish or snack to help eliminate odor naturally.

4. Cloves

Cloves are traditional herbal ingredients with anti-inflammatory benefits.

How to use:

Boil a handful of cloves in two glasses of water.

Drink the clove water three times a week.

Alternatively, prepare more boiled clove water and use it to wash your body for better results.

5. Limes

Rich in vitamin C, limes (and lemons) help reduce body odor naturally.

How to use:

Cut two limes and squeeze out the juice.

Mix the juice with a bit of baking soda or lime powder until it forms a paste.

Apply the paste to your underarms or other odor-prone areas.

Leave it on for about an hour before rinsing and showering.

6. Ginger

Ginger offers many health benefits, including reducing body odor.

How to use:

Make a ginger drink and consume it once daily, especially at night before bed.

7. Cucumber

Cucumbers, often used in beauty treatments, can also help reduce sweat and odor.

How to use:

Slice a cucumber and rub the pieces onto your underarms or other body areas.

Leave it for a few minutes before rinsing with clean water.

8. Guava Leaves

Guava leaves contain antibacterial properties that help eliminate body odor.

How to use:

Crush a handful of fresh guava leaves until smooth.

Apply the paste to your body.

Let it absorb for a few minutes, then rinse clean.

Other Tips to Prevent Body Odor

Aside from natural remedies, you should also avoid habits and foods that can trigger body odor. Some common triggers include:

Red meat

Onions and garlic

Chilies

Shrimp paste

Curry spices

Coffee

Fast food/junk food

Also avoid smoking and drinking alcohol.

Choose clothes that absorb sweat well and don’t trap heat. Change your clothes regularly, including underwear, because dirty clothes mixed with sweat can breed bacteria.

Exercise regularly to help release toxins through sweat. After exercising, rest for a while to let sweat dry, then shower immediately. Eating fresh fruits every day also helps neutralize body odor from within.

Stress can increase sweat production, so try to manage stress through relaxation, deep breathing, or light exercise.

You can also use deodorants or antiperspirants, but choose products that suit your skin type to avoid irritation or allergies.