Body odor under the armpits has always been a troublesome problem for humans. From ancient times to the present, people have tried all kinds of unimaginable methods to cover up or eliminate body odor. Here are 6 crazy things that humans have done in history to get rid of armpit odor, and the 5th one will definitely astound you. Finally, we will also reveal a healthier and more natural solution!
1. The Experiment of Ancient Egyptians with Perfumed Ointments
Around 1500 BC, the ancient Egyptians were among the earliest civilizations to document body odor management. They made a thick perfumed ointment by mixing beeswax with fragrant herbs and flower petals, and then applied it to their armpits. Although it could temporarily mask the odor, this mixture would melt under high temperatures, which instead made it easier for bacteria to breed and worsened the unpleasant smell. Even so, this attempt laid the foundation for humanity's initial exploration of armpit care.
2. Using Metal Rods to Stop Sweating in Medieval Europe
In the Middle Ages, Europeans believed that body odor was a symbol of "being possessed by demons." To deal with underarm odor, the nobility would use metal rods made of silver or copper to repeatedly rub the underarm skin, attempting to inhibit sweat secretion through the antibacterial properties of the metal. However, this method was not only ineffective but also often led to skin damage and infections, which can be described as a "self-harming way of deodorizing."
3. The Vinegar Bath Therapy in the Victorian Era
In the 19th century, it was popular in Europe to clean the armpits with vinegar. People believed that the acidity of vinegar could "kill the odor". Some households even mixed vinegar with rose water to make a spray. Although vinegar can indeed briefly neutralize the alkalinity of sweat, frequent use will damage the skin barrier, leading to problems such as dryness and sensitivity.
4. Radioactive Antiperspirants in the Early 20th Century
In the 1920s, the "health benefits" of the radioactive element radium were wildly sought after. In the American market, antiperspirants containing radium once appeared, claiming that they could "permanently close the sweat glands" through radiation. It was not until many years later that people discovered that these products could lead to skin cancer and organ failure. This absurd way of managing body odor has become a black humor in the history of the abuse of technology.
5. Axillary nerve resection surgery in the 1970s (It will shock you!)
In order to completely solve the problem of underarm odor, some radical doctors introduced the "sympathectomy of the armpit," which involves cutting the nerves that control the sweat glands through surgery. Although patients no longer sweat after the operation, their bodies lose the ability to regulate temperature, and it may even trigger compensatory hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating in other parts of the body). This extreme measure that sacrifices health has now been phased out by the medical community.
6. The "Powerful Chemical Weapons" in the Cosmeceutical Industry
Modern people rely on antiperspirants containing aluminum salts, alcohol, and synthetic fragrances. These ingredients eliminate underarm odor by blocking sweat glands or killing the flora on the skin surface. However, long-term use may lead to blocked pores, allergic reactions, and even interfere with the body's natural detoxification mechanism. Some products can also leave stubborn yellow stains on clothes, becoming a new source of embarrassment.
Natural Solutions: Return to the Wisdom of the Body
Looking back through history, humans have paid a huge price to get rid of underarm odor. In fact, truly healthy and natural deodorizing solutions have long existed—
- Lavender: Soothing and antibacterial, it reduces the growth of odor-causing bacteria and soothes sensitive skin at the same time.
- Mint: Cooling and bacteriostatic, it quickly neutralizes the sour smell of sweat and brings a long-lasting fresh feeling.
- Rose: Its natural light fragrance covers up body odor, and its weakly acidic property balances the underarm environment.
- Coconut + Vanilla: Nourishing and moisturizing, it gently absorbs sweat, and the scent of vanilla naturally covers up the odor.
These ingredients do not contain irritating chemicals. They can not only provide underarm care but also respect the body's natural metabolic laws. If you want to learn more about natural care methods, you can refer to this article titled "5 Lifestyle Secrets to Keep Your Body Naturally Fresh" to unlock a more comprehensive health solution.
