10 All-Natural Ways to Eliminate BO Without Deodorant

Witch Hazel to Lower pH level

[Foxyliam](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-vector/branch-witch-hazel-medicinal-plant-hamamelis-373545160)Body odor occurs as a result of bacteria growth, typically in areas of the body such as the groin area and underarms. These areas have more active sweat glands and when bacteria feed on sweat, they produce a bad odor. In order for bacteria to survive, it needs a high[ pH level](http://www.doctoroz.com/blog/audrey-kunin-md/chemistry-lesson-healthy-skin), so the goal is to lower your skin’s pH, which will make it impossible for bacteria to survive. When witch hazel is applied to your skin, it lows the skin pH and helps to reduce sweating so there is no bacteria and no odor. You can apply witch hazel directly to your skin with a cotton ball or you can use it in a spray bottle to spray under your arms just like you would use deodorant.

Neutralize Odors with Baking Soda and Lime

[local point](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/baking-soda-lemon-on-white-background-433705363)Whether you sweat a little or a lot, using a mixture of baking soda and lime juice is an ideal way to reduce or eliminate body odor. The baking soda will neutralize the odor and absorb the sweat, while the lime juice acts as a natural deodorant. The acid in the lime the juice will help reduce sweating as well as provide a fresh, citrusy scent. Simple add enough baking soda to the juice of one lime to create a paste. Before showering, apply the mixture to your underarms; allow setting for about 10-miniutes than shower off the baking soda mixture.

Tea Tree Oil Kills Bacteria and Fungi

[Africa Studio](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/beautiful-composition-tea-oil-spa-stones-480038104)Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial and antiseptic, which can kill bacteria and fungi that is present on the surface of skin. Tea tree oil also has a sweet aroma, so not only does it kill the bacteria that are causing the odor, but it leaves your skin smelling clean. To make your own homemade mixture, simply combine 2-3 drops of tea tree oil with 1-ounce of water and mix well. Use a cotton ball to swab the mixture under your arms in place of deodorant. This oil may be slightly strong for some, so make sure to test a small amount of it on your skin before using under your arms.

The Sweet Fragrance of Sage

[Viktory Panchenko](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/bunch-fresh-sage-on-old-wooden-288699647)Sage is beneficial for eliminating body odor in two ways, it reduces sweat gland activity, so you sweat less and it is a natural antibacterial herb that will eliminate and prevent bacteria. It also has a scent that acts as a deodorant. There are a few different ways sage can be used to eliminate body odor:

• Drink it-make a cup of sage tea by steeping 1-2 teaspoons of dried sage in a cup of hot water for about 10-15 minutes. Strain the leaves and sip the tea to help reduce perspiration. Only drink sage tea in small amounts and do not drink more than one cup per day. Prolonged use of sage may cause hot flashes and dizziness. Pregnant and nursing women should not consume sage tea.
• Use it as a body wash-add 1 tablespoon of sage to one quart of hot water and allow steeping for 10 minutes. Use the mixture to wash your underarms. Do not wash your genital area with the solution and do not use on your face. Make sure to thoroughly wash your hands after washing with sage.
• Mix about 1 teaspoon of sage essential oil with carrier oil, such as olive oil and apply to your underarms and/or pulse points, such as behind the knees or on your wrist.

Soak in Tomato Juice

[BravissimoS](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/tomato-juice-splash-isolated-on-white-525767380) Tomatoes are a natural antiseptic that has been used for hundreds of years in [Ayurveda medicine](http://www.webmd.com/balance/guide/ayurvedic-treatments), including as a remedy for body odor. If you prefer not to bathe in tomato juice, you can achieve its odor fighting benefits by drinking a small glass of juice, three times a day. To bathe in it, simply add about 3 cups of tomato juice to a tub of warm water and soak in the mixture for about 15-minutes.

Homemade, All Natural Deodorant

[Zhukov Oleg](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/spa-stone-isolated-on-white-background-80967862)Store bought deodorants contain metals and chemicals that can be harmful to your health when absorbed through the skin. The good news, you can make your own chemical-free deodorant that will provide the same effect as store-bought. Here’s a quick and easy recipe for homemade deodorant:

• 5 drops each of sage essential oil, lavender essential oil and coriander essential oil
• 2 ounces of witch hazel
• Spray bottle
• Mix the essential oils and the witch hazel together in the spray bottle and shake well
• Store the deodorant in a cool place and shake before each use

[Alan Bailey](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/closeup-young-couple-drinking-wheat-grass-127142246)Wheat grass contains chlorophyll, which is a natural odor remover. Fair warning, wheat grass does have a very strong taste, so it is important to start with small amounts and on an empty stomach to prevent reactions, such as nausea. The wheat grass can also be added to your favorite smoothie in small amounts. To make the juice simply combine 2 tablespoons of wheat grass juice with 1-cup of water, mix well and drink in the morning on an empty stomach.

Change Your Dietary Habits

[DeeaF](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/words-make-change-your-life-on-393210616)Not only is your diet essential for your health, it also has an effect on how you smell. Certain foods have the potential to make your sweat have a more pungent odor, while some foods may help to eliminate body odor. Here are a few tips for a “odor” free diet:

• Drink a lot of water to help eliminate odor causing toxins from your body
• Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet that contains foods from all of the food groups, including fresh fruits and vegetables
• Limit your consumption of fried meats, because they do not digest easily and tend to produce odor causing toxins in the body
• Avoid coffee, colas and alcoholic beverages
• Avoid sugary snacks (bacteria love sugar)
• Include herbs, such as parsley, coriander, mint and oregano in your diet
• Avoid strong aroma foods, such as garlic or onions that can be carried into the sweat and contribute to body odor

[Evok20](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/young-woman-taking-relaxing-bubble-bath-23522524)Sometimes a change in lifestyle may be all it takes to eliminate body odor. Cleanliness and good hygiene are essential for preventing body odor. For example, it is important to bathe daily and thoroughly dry your body after bathing. Other ways to prevent body odor may including washing bed linens and pillows regularly, wear clean clothes and avoid wearing tight shoes (they cause your feet to sweat).

Wear Breathable Clothing

[ wavebreakmedia](https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/cheerful-women-exercising-arms-raised-fitness-319619375)Wearing clothing made with natural fibers, such as cotton and linen will help to decrease sweating. When exercising, wear clothing made with fibers that pull moisture away from your body, which will prevent bacteria from getting at the sweat.

If you continue to have a problem with body odor, consider scheduling an appointment with your physician. The odor may be caused by a condition known as hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating) or trimethylaminuria, which is a metabolic disorder that prevents your body from breaking down an odor causing compound known as trimethylamine. Your physician can recommend treatments such as botox or electromagnetic therapy, which helps people with hyperhidrosis to reduce their excessive sweating.