Odor

An odor is a chemical dissolved in air, generally at a very low concentration, which we perceive by the sense of olfaction. Odors are also called smells, which can refer to both pleasant and unpleasant odors. The odor molecules send messages to the limbic system, the area of the brain that governs emotional responses. These messages have the power to alter moods, evoke distant memories, raise our spirits, and boost self-confidence.

The human body perspires and it is one of the main functions of organism. Sweat is generally an odorless body secretion. The odor occurs as a result of bacteria activity. When bacteria multiply on the skin and break down these secretions, however, the resulting by-products may have a strong and disagreeable odor. Proteins and fats, which make up 15 percent of perspiration fluids, are consumed by bacteria. The by-products created by this process grow, multiply and decompose to create perspiration odor. This odor is often due to poor personal hygiene, but excessive perspiration or some other underlying disease is sometimes involved. Body odor is specific to the individual, and can be used to identify people, though this is more often done by dogs than by humans. An individual's bodily odor is also influenced by diet, gender, genetics, health, medication, occupation, and mood.

Good hygiene practices are important in preventing body odor. These include regular baths or showers; wearing cotton socks and non-synthetic shoes that breathe; changing the socks once or twice daily; and keeping the feet dry and bare as much as possible. Special foot powders and odor-absorbing shoe inserts may be helpful if foot odor is a particular problem.

Some foods and spices can intensify body odor. Onions, garlic, and cumin contain oils that may cause odor as they are excreted through the skin. Caffeine and nicotine increase sweating and therefore the risk of odor.