It is sometimes hard to believe that up to 1% of the population suffer, to some degree, from 'over sweating'. There is actually a name for this condition and if you are reading this you may already have heard of it if - it's called"Hyperhidrosis".

What is Hyperhidrosis?

Hyperhydrosis is excessive sweating that occurs above what could be considered normal circumstances. So it's both abnormal and excessive.

How would I know if I have Hyperhydrosis?

With the condition there is a variety in the degree of symptoms suffered. Many people have a milder form where they have excessive sweat when compared to the 'norm' but other individuals have the condition in its most severe form with excessive sweating on the hands, feet, face and especially the armpits.

Is there a Cure?

There are several methods which will limit even almost eradicate the symptoms and these treatments include surgery, chemical(including drugs) and natural but for the purposes of this article we will focus on more natural remedies.

Natural Remedies.

Sufferers from this condition often believe that chemical and physical treatments are often the first method of attack to solve Hyperhidrosis and its affiliated symptoms such as the heavy underarm perspiration.

Often the large chemical companies are very effective in marketing their drugs - yes these are very successful treatments but there are more natural treatments that can be as equally effective and I will list some of the common ones below.

1. Shaving

Many sufferers alleviate to some extent some of the more 'annoying' symptoms one being the 'odour' associated with sweat congregating and drying on hair in the armpits.

This odour is caused by the release of toxins by bacteria which feed off the sweat and by the simple act of shaving, this is reduced. An additional benefit to shaving is that the sufferer feels that the armpit area is less sticky. Obviously this is only one method and for maximum effectiveness should be used with a combination of other treatments - some of which are outlined below.

2. Showering and Personal Hygiene Application

Depending on the severity of the condition, it is advisable to either bathe or shower once a day. It's not unknown for excessive sufferers to shower more than 3 times a day. If a sufferer has not shaved the armpit area it's usual to bathe or shower at least twice a day as odours, especially in warmer conditions become apparent very quickly.

However to be thorough at this stage it is usually advised to use anti bacterial soaps as these prevent the bacteria from getting a toehold. After the anti bacterial soap has been applied it is best to clean the area with fresh water (there's no point adding bacteria back after you have just washed!) to wipe the area clean!

3. Wear Natural Fibres

Avoid polyester and non- natural fibres as these tend to frustrate the flow of air in the area and at times accentuate excessive perspiration. It sounds really basic but you would be amazed at how many people who suffer this condition are unaware of such a simple fact.

Natural fibres such as linen, cotton and in Winter, Wool, are best. The garments should be worn so as to provide 'ample space' in the armpit area - for obvious reasons.

One of the main benefits of natural fibres over man made ones is that the air evaporates more easily.

4. Drink Water

You may think that drinking more water is going to add to the problem rather than help solve it. In fact this couldn't be further from the truth. When you sweat, water and essential minerals are leaching from your body and these need to be replaced.

In a sense, drinking more water helps keep the toxins and waste in you body at a lower level than if you weren't replacing them at all. This means that wastes friendly to the bacteria are effectively being flushed from your system - so in a way you are helping to control the 'odour' problem associated with the condition.

Obviously you shouldn't over do it! But you will know when your water consumption is just right when your urine is clear and odourless on a continual basis.

5. Baking Soda

The application of Baking soda is a very effective natural remedy for problems associated with underarm perspiration. It is less likely to cause irritation or allergies than commonly used deodorant but often much more effective!

It's applied when the armpit area is dry (it should also be shaven) and if it is lightly dusted on is great at two things. Firstly it is a great moisture absorber and secondly it is a fantastic 'odour eater'.