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Listerine Fights Underarm Odor

Q. My daughter is entering puberty and dealing with the usual underarm body odors. We tried many different deodorants and antiperspirants to no avail.

I figured if Listerine killed the germs that cause bad breath, it might kill the bacteria that cause underarm odor. I checked with the pediatrician first to make sure it would be safe.


Sure enough, Listerine works. She applies it after showering, lets it dry and then applies an antiperspirant. She can go just about the entire day with barely any odor.

A. Thanks for sharing this unique solution to a common problem. Listerine contains thymol, eucalyptol, menthol and methyl salicylate. These herbal oils have antifungal and antibacterial properties. Although it is not approved for this use, we’re glad to learn it works.

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About the Author
Terry Graedon, PhD, is a medical anthropologist and co-host of The People’s Pharmacy radio show, co-author of The People’s Pharmacy syndicated newspaper columns and numerous books, and co-founder of The People’s Pharmacy website. Terry taught in the Duke University School of Nursing and was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is a Fellow of the Society of Applied Anthropology. Terry is one of the country's leading authorities on the science behind folk remedies..
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