Can alum be used to treat body odor?
Disease description:
Recently, a friend recommended a new method to me, and I wonder if alum can be used to treat body odor?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Alum can help alleviate body odor but cannot completely cure it.
Alum is a mineral with astringent, antibacterial, and antiperspirant properties. Its acidic and organic components can inhibit bacterial growth and reduce secretion from apocrine sweat glands, thereby lessening the odor associated with body odor.
For individuals with severe body odor, the effect may not be very noticeable. Additionally, alum is relatively irritating, and long-term use may cause skin damage, such as itching, redness, and swelling, and could potentially lead to irritant contact dermatitis.
Therefore, alum can be used as an adjunct treatment under the guidance of a professional physician but cannot replace standard medical treatments. Patients with body odor should maintain good personal hygiene, shower regularly, and change clothes frequently. If symptoms are severe and affect daily life, it is recommended to seek timely medical advice. A physician may suggest the use of antibacterial agents, deodorants, or surgical removal of apocrine sweat glands.
