By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 10, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Body Odor
Herbal decoctions for body odor are liquid extracts made by steeping herbs in hot water, which help to eliminate unpleasant body smells.
These natural remedies work by balancing the body's pH levels, reducing sweat production, and eliminating bacteria that cause body odor. Examples of effective herbal decoctions include tea tree oil-based formulas, which contain antifungal and antibacterial properties that combat odor-causing germs.
By using these decoctions, individuals with persistent body odor can enjoy a boost in confidence and feel more comfortable in their own skin.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for body odor, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 2. Eucalyptus globulus
- 3. Aloe vera
- 4. Sesbania sesban
- 5. Calendula officinalis
- 6. Cymbopogon citratus
- 7. Centella asiatica
- 8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 9. Cymbopogon martini
- 10. Mentha x piperita
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for body odor?
- What ailments similar to body odor are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea tree decoctions helps with body odor because of its potent antimicrobial properties.
The decocotion contains compounds like terpinen-4-ol, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause body odor. When consumed as a tea, these compounds are absorbed into the bloodstream and then released through sweat, helping to neutralize unpleasant odors.
Additionally, the antibacterial properties also help to reduce the number of bacteria on the skin's surface, further reducing body odor.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia decoctions that help with body odor.
- Cineole: Cineole exhibits antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the growth of bacteria that contribute to body odor.
- Limonene: Limonene has been shown to have deodorizing properties, effectively neutralizing and eliminating odor-causing compounds.
- Linalool: Linalool has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which help to control the growth of odor-causing microorganisms on the skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make decoctions for body odor.
- Leaves: Their leaves are commonly used due to their high content of oil, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties that help combat body odor-causing microorganisms.
- Barks: The bark of Melaleuca alternifolia is used due to its ability to provide astringent and antiseptic properties, which help reduce and eliminate bacteria and fungi causing body odor.
- Stems: The stems are used due to their content of essential oils that have antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which help prevent the growth of odor-causing microorganisms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for body odor.
- Gather 20-30 grams of dried melaleuca alternifolia leaves and flowers for the decoction.
- Combine the dried herbs in a saucepan and add 500 milliliters of water for the decoction.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat for 10-15 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and use as needed.
2. Eucalyptus globulus
Tasmanian blue gum decoctions helps with body odor because of its potent antibacterial and antifungal properties.
The decoction's active compounds, such as eucalyptol and cineole, work to eliminate bacteria that thrive in warm, moist areas of the body, leading to the formation of body odor. By reducing the growth of these microorganisms, the decoction helps to neutralize unpleasant odors and leave the skin feeling refreshed and clean.
Regular use can also help to balance the body's natural pH levels, further contributing to a reduction in body odor.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus decoctions that help with body odor.
- Cineole: Cineole helps with body odor by its antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause unpleasant odors on the skin.
- Limonene: Limonene helps with body odor by its deodorizing properties, which neutralize and eliminate volatile organic compounds (VOCs) responsible for body odor.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids help with body odor by their antioxidant properties, which reduce oxidative stress and inflammation that can contribute to the production of body odor-causing compounds.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make decoctions for body odor.
- Leaves: They contain high levels of oils that help to kill bacteria and fungi causing body odor.
- Barks: The bark contains tannins and oils that have antiseptic and deodorizing properties.
- Stems: The stems contain oils that help to reduce sweat and kill bacteria that cause body odor.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for body odor.
- Harvest 25-50 grams of fresh or 100-200 grams of dried eucalyptus globulus leaves for decoction preparation.
- Rinse the leaves with clean water to remove dirt and debris from the harvested material.
- Combine the leaves with 1 liter of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat and simmer the mixture for 5-10 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids to obtain the final herbal remedy.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe decoctions helps with body odor because of its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.
The aloe vera gel contains compounds that inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, which are often responsible for causing unpleasant body odor. By reducing the presence of these microorganisms, aloe decoctions help to eliminate the source of the odor, leaving skin feeling fresher and more confident.
Additionally, aloe's anti-inflammatory properties can soothe and calm irritated skin, further contributing to its deodorizing effects.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera decoctions that help with body odor.
- Chrysophanic acid: This phenolic compound found in Aloe vera has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help to inhibit the growth of odor-causing microorganisms on the skin.
- Aloe-emodin: This anthraquinone is known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to reduce sweat production and prevent the breakdown of sweat into odor-causing compounds.
- Salicylic acid: This phenolic acid has antimicrobial properties and helps to break down keratin, reducing sweat retention and odor-causing bacteria on the skin's surface.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make decoctions for body odor.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are primarily used due to their high concentration of aloe-emodin, a compound that exhibits antimicrobial properties to combat body odor-causing bacteria.
- Gel from the leaves: The gel from the leaves is used due to its soothing and antibacterial properties that help reduce sweat and body odor while promoting skin health.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for body odor.
- Harvest the aloe vera gel from the leaves of the aloe vera plant for use in your decoction.
- Chop the aloe vera gel into small pieces to increase its surface area for faster infusion.
- Combine 1 cup of chopped aloe vera gel with 4 cups of water in a saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
4. Sesbania sesban
Rattlebox decoctions helps with body odor because they contain natural compounds that have antibacterial, antifungal, and deodorizing properties.
The herbs in the decoction, such as rattlebox leaf and root, work together to reduce sweat's ability to produce odor-causing bacteria, while also eliminating existing bacteria and fungi on the skin.
As a result, the body produces less waste that can cause unpleasant odors, leaving you with fresher, cleaner-smelling skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sesbania sesban decoctions that help with body odor.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce body odor by inhibiting the growth of bacteria on the skin that contribute to unpleasant smells.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which can help eliminate bacteria that cause body odor, thereby reducing its occurrence.
- Tannins: These compounds can help reduce sweat and prevent bacteria from breaking it down, thereby minimizing the production of compounds that cause body odor.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rattlebox used to make decoctions for body odor.
- Leaves: They are used due to their astringent and antiseptic properties, which help in reducing sweat and body odor.
- Stems: They are used because of their ability to reduce bacterial growth, which contributes to body odor.
- Roots: They are used due to their antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which help in killing bacteria causing body odor.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rattlebox for body odor.
- Gather 30-40 grams of dried sesbania sesban flowers and leaves and clean them thoroughly.
- Boil 2 liters of water in a pot over medium heat for 5 minutes.
- Add the dried sesbania sesban flowers and leaves to the boiling water and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the decoction steep for 20-25 minutes.
- Strain the decoction and discard the solids then let it cool to room temperature.
5. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with body odor because of its unique combination of antioxidants, flavonoids, and terpenes.
These compounds work together to combat bacteria that thrive in sweaty areas, reducing their ability to break down sweat and cause unpleasant odors. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of pot marigold help soothe skin irritations and reduce sweating, further diminishing body odor.
By drinking pot marigold decoctions regularly, individuals can experience a noticeable reduction in body odor and enjoy a fresher, more confident demeanor.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with body odor.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help reduce body odor by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause sweat to smell bad.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which help to suppress the bacteria that contribute to body odor.
- Carotenoids: These pigments have antioxidant properties that help to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy environment in the skin, which can help to minimize the production of sweat's characteristic odor-causing compounds.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for body odor.
- Flowers: They are rich in sesquiterpene lactones, which have antimicrobial properties that help reduce body odor-causing bacteria.
- Leaves: They contain triterpenoids, which have antiseptic properties that help control the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the skin.
- Seeds: They are rich in antioxidants and essential oils, which help to balance the skin's natural pH and reduce sweat, contributing to fresher body odor.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for body odor.
- Harvest 20-30 fresh calendula flowers on a sunny day when they are in full bloom.
- Clean the flowers thoroughly with cold running water to remove dirt and debris.
- Combine the cleaned flowers with 1 quart of boiling water in a large saucepan.
- Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let the mixture steep for 20-30 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
6. Cymbopogon citratus
Lemongrass decoctions helps with body odor because of its natural antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
The citral oil present in lemongrass has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause bad odors, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. When consumed as a decoction, the oil is absorbed into the body and can help to reduce sweat's pH level, making it less conducive to bacterial growth.
This natural approach can provide a more effective and sustainable solution for managing body odor than chemical-based deodorants or antiperspirants.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus decoctions that help with body odor.
- Citronellal: This terpene acts as a natural deodorant by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause body odor on the skin.
- Geraniol: This terpene has antimicrobial properties that help reduce the population of bacteria causing body odor, thereby preventing the formation of unpleasant odors.
- Limonene: This terpene has antifungal properties that help eliminate fungal infections, which can contribute to body odor, while also possessing a fresh, citrusy scent that helps mask unpleasant odors.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make decoctions for body odor.
- Leaves: The leaves of Cymbopogon citratus are commonly used to make decoctions for body odor due to their high content of citral, a natural deodorizing agent.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of Cymbopogon citratus are used for their antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce bacterial growth that causes body odor.
- Leaves: The leaves are also used for their antifungal properties, which help to combat fungal growth that contributes to body odor.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for body odor.
- Harvest 30g of fresh cymbopogon citratus leaves and dry them in a warm place for 3-4 hours.
- Combine 10g of dried cymbopogon citratus leaves with 1l of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes and strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve.
- Store the resulting herbal decoction in a glass container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Use 20-30ml of the decoction as needed to promote relaxation and alleviate digestive discomfort.
7. Centella asiatica
Asiatic pennywort decoctions helps with body odor because of its natural antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
The herbs in the decoction work to reduce sweat production and eliminate bacteria that cause body odor, leaving skin feeling fresh and clean. Additionally, pennywort's astringent properties help to tighten pores, reducing moisture buildup that can contribute to unpleasant odors.
Overall, herbal asiatic pennywort decoctions provide a natural and effective way to combat body odor, promoting a sense of confidence and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Centella asiatica decoctions that help with body odor.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, particularly asiatic and madecassic acids, have antimicrobial properties that help reduce the growth of bacteria that contribute to body odor.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as caffeic acid and ferulic acid, exhibit antioxidant and antimicrobial activities, which can help neutralize odor-causing compounds and prevent their formation.
- Asiatic acid: Asiatic acid has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce sweat production and prevent the bacterial breakdown of sweat into odor-causing compounds.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of asiatic pennywort used to make decoctions for body odor.
- Leaves: The most commonly used parts of Centella asiatica for body odor decoctions are its leaves, which contain compounds that help in reducing sweat and body odor.
- Stems: Stems of Centella asiatica are also widely used due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help in soothing skin irritations and reducing body odor.
- Roots: The roots of Centella asiatica are used for their antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help in preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause body odor.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic asiatic pennywort for body odor.
- Gather 30 grams of dried centella asiatica leaves and roots and store them in an airtight container.
- Weigh 1 gram of dried centella asiatica per 200 milliliters of water and add the herb to a pot.
- Boil the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes over low heat or simmer for 30 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove solids.
- Allow the decoction to cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it for later use.
8. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Licorice decoctions helps with body odor because it contains compounds like glycyrrhizin, which have natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
When consumed as a drink, these compounds help to reduce the growth of bacteria that can cause body odor on the skin. Additionally, licorice has been shown to improve digestion and reduce sweating, both of which can contribute to body odor.
By reducing bacteria and sweat production, herbal licorice decoctions can help to naturally freshen and deodorize the body.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions that help with body odor.
- Licorice glycosides: These compounds help reduce body odor by inhibiting the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the skin, such as Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids present in Glycyrrhiza glabra decoctions have antimicrobial properties that help combat the bacteria responsible for body odor, thereby reducing the intensity of sweat odor.
- Terpenoids: This compound exhibits anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help reduce sweat production and combat the bacteria responsible for body odor, thus minimizing the unpleasant odor associated with excessive sweating.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make decoctions for body odor.
- Roots: They are rich in glycyrrhizin, a compound that acts as an antiseptic and antibacterial agent, helping to reduce sweat and body odor.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have antimicrobial properties that help prevent bacterial growth and reduce body odor.
- Barks: They are a good source of glycosides, which have antiseptic and antibacterial properties, helping to control sweat and body odor-causing bacteria.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for body odor.
- Harvest 10-15 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a reputable supplier for maximum potency.
- Crush the dried roots into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle to enhance bioavailability.
- Combine 1 gram of the powdered roots with 1 liter of boiling water to make a decoction.
- Simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes to release the active compounds and allow for infusion.
- Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids.
9. Cymbopogon martini
Lemongrass decoctions helps with body odor because of its natural antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
The citral and geraniol compounds present in lemongrass have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause body odor, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Corynebacterium spp. Additionally, the decoction's cooling and astringent effects help to reduce sweat production and neutralize acidic substances that can contribute to unpleasant body odors.
As a result, using lemongrass decoctions may help to leave your skin feeling fresher and smelling cleaner for longer periods of time.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon martini decoctions that help with body odor.
- Citral: This terpene helps reduce body odor by its antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the skin.
- Limonene: This terpene exhibits antifungal properties, helping to eliminate fungal infections that can contribute to body odor.
- Zingiberene: This sesquiterpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce sweat and eliminate bacteria that cause body odor.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make decoctions for body odor.
- Leaves: They are used due to their essential oils containing properties that help in reducing sweat and body odor.
- Stems: They are used due to their ability to absorb and release essential oils, providing a sustained release of antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help combat body odor.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for body odor.
- Harvest 25 grams of dried cymbopogon martini leaves for decoction preparation.
- Combine the dried leaves with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Allow the decoction to cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container.
10. Mentha x piperita
Peppermint decoctions helps with body odor because of its natural antimicrobial properties.
The menthol content in peppermint has been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause unpleasant odors, such as staphylococcus aureus and escherichia coli. Additionally, peppermint's cooling and refreshing effects can help reduce sweat production, further minimizing the likelihood of odor-causing microorganisms thriving on the skin.
By incorporating herbal peppermint decoctions into one's routine, individuals can enjoy a fresher, more confident sense of self.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Mentha x piperita decoctions that help with body odor.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has antimicrobial properties, which help reduce the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the skin.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has potent antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which inhibit the formation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) responsible for body odor.
- Limonene: This terpene has a deodorizing effect due to its ability to break down and neutralize VOCs, thereby reducing body odor.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of peppermint used to make decoctions for body odor.
- Leaves: They are widely used due to their high concentration of menthol and menthone, which are natural deodorizers and antimicrobial agents.
- Stems: Stems are used for their similar properties to leaves, with a slightly lower concentration of menthol and menthone, but still effective in reducing body odor.
- Roots: Roots are used to add a deeper, earthier flavor and potentially more antimicrobial properties to decoctions, although they may be less potent than leaves or stems.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint for body odor.
- Gather 25g of fresh mentha x piperita leaves and 500ml of water for the decoction.
- Cut the fresh leaves into small pieces to release their essential oils and flavor.
- Combine the cut leaves with the water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the leaves to infuse.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean container.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for body odor?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with body odor is a blend of neem, tea tree, and lemongrass.
Neem's antibacterial properties combat sweat-causing bacteria, while tea tree oil's antifungal properties reduce fungal growth. Lemongrass, with its deodorizing properties, helps eliminate odors. Together, these herbs create a potent formula that not only controls body odor but also promotes a healthy skin balance.
This combination can be consumed as a decoction or applied topically, providing a natural and effective solution for body odor.
What ailments similar to body odor are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to body odor that are treated with herbal decoctions are those affecting skin and hair health.
For instance, fungal infections like athlete's foot and ringworm can be treated with decoctions of plants like tea tree, lavender, and chamomile.
Additionally, conditions such as dandruff, eczema, and acne can also be managed with herbal decoctions made from herbs like neem, turmeric, and calendula.