How does traditional Chinese medicine treat excessive underarm sweat odor?

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), treatment for strong underarm body odor focuses on both constitutional regulation and local care:

1. TCM treatment for strong underarm odor aims to regulate internal damp-heat, which is considered the primary cause. Addressing this internal imbalance is essential for effective treatment.

2. Chinese herbal medicines that warm yang and resolve dampness can help alleviate symptoms of internal damp-heat. Commonly used herbs include Atractylodes (Bai Zhu), Poria (Fu Ling), and Coix seed (Yi Yi Ren). The specific herbal formula can be tailored according to the individual patient's symptoms.

3. Patients with strong underarm odor should avoid spicy and stimulating foods such as chili peppers, onions, and ginger. Instead, they should consume more cooling foods, such as bitter melon, cucumber, and watermelon.

4. Topical external treatments using Chinese herbs with astringent, sweat-reducing, and aromatic deodorizing properties—such as herbal washes or deodorant powders—can be applied directly to the underarm skin. These help reduce sweat secretion, neutralize odor, promote local microcirculation, and improve the skin environment.

5. Patients should maintain good personal hygiene and wear breathable clothing to minimize bacterial growth and further reduce odor.

If symptoms worsen or persist, medical attention should be sought promptly.