Very often when I am at an event, admiring how perfectly turned out some women are, with their perfect hair dos, make-up, trendy outfits and footwear; the one thing that ruins the entire moment is the issue of body odour. I am appalled that inspite of all these conscientious efforts, they fail to pay heed to handling the issue, which completely sets them back among others. And I'm not just talking about women; I am also talking about men who very often seem completely ignorant about this problem.
So how does one internally start to rectify this problem? Here are some tips that will help you -
1. Watch What You Eat
Firstly, you need to watch what you eat. Avoid strong smelling garlic and onion-based foods. You will be surprised but such foods do affect your body in many ways. Start to drink cooling drinks besides plain water. Take plenty of chaas, coconut water, lime water, rhododendron water, etc. Include plenty of salads and fruits in your daily diet. Green vegetables are a natural deodorizer and green salads will not only keep your skin fresh but clear it of impurities.
2. Shower Time
In summer, showering twice a day is a must, even if it's for just five minutes. Most people cringe at the thought of having a bath, as it may take too much of their time. But it is necessary. Add fragrance and a handful of alum to your bath water, which acts as a powerful anti-bacterial and antiseptic, and will keep a check on body odour.
3. Natural Deo
You can make some wonderful herb-based deodorants at home, as several herbs are helpful in combating body odour. Through centuries, the herbs that have been commonly used for various beauty treatments are sage, rosemary, leaves of chrysanthemum, lovage, celery and parsley. All can be made into a tea, which can then be used as a wash. Celery, parsely, sage, rosemary and lovage should also be included frequently in the diet.
4. Nothing Like Lavender Oil
Lavender oil is also an excellent deodorizer. You can make a strong lavender tea using 250 grams of the herb to 250ml of boiling water, and then adding a few drops of the oil before applying on yourself.
5. Drink Camphor Tea
For those of you who have a chronic problem with body odour, here's an old fashioned drink which is worth trying. Take -
1 rind of lemon
250ml milk
3 drops of camphor oil
Method: Gently warm the milk and soak the lemon rind in it for 10minutes. Add the camphor oil and drink the milk just before going to bed.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV makes an excellent wash for dispelling body odour and keeping the acid mantle of the skin. Dilute 1tsp apple cider vinegar in 250ml water and use frequently as a wash. Don't be put off by the smell of vinegar, it evaporates quickly, in about 10 minutes.
7. Say No to Alcohol and Smoking
Alcohol and smoking not only result in bad mouth odour, but also body odour as it builds up toxins in the body. When you smoke, the smell tends to adhere onto your clothes and body for a long time.
8. Wear Light Clothes
Another golden rule and especially for hot climates is to wear cotton, jute, khadi and all other natural fibers. Avoid synthetic clothes that do not allow the skin to breathe and avoid tight fitting clothes. Wear loose airy clothes that allow air circulation, thereby keeping you cool.
These simple yet highly effective ways of reducing body odour will help you feel and smell better. Remember to follow them regularly.
Until next time.
About the Author:
Suparna Trikha is a beauty expert based in New Delhi. She also teaches meditation through aromatherapy and organises corporate workshops for distressing. She has her own range of 40 beauty products and proposes to launch them very soon in the Indian market as well as abroad. With this crusade of moving back to nature, Suparna believes in making people healthier and more beautiful the natural way.
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