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Are there any alternative therapies for excessive sweating?

Excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis, is a fairly common problem that usually affects the palms, feet, groin, and armpits. Some people also have an abnormal amount of sweating on the face.

Alternative treatments include walnut leaf and sage leaf. Sage leaf oil is believed to contain a variety of natural ingredients that may help to reduce sweating. It isn’t known how the sage leaf works and the effectiveness has yet to be proven by medical research. However, some people find the aroma of sage appealing and claim to experience good results.

Walnut leaf can also be used to dry the affected area, especially hands and feet. You add 2 to 3 grams of the herb to about 3 ounces of water. You then use the solution to make a compress or to soak the area. While this mixture may work for some people it too has not been confirmed by medical research. It is also important to point out that a walnut leaf solution can dry the area, but it will not stop perspiration.

Sources:
PDR Family Guide to Natural Medicines & Healing Therapies. Medical Economics Co., 1999.
The Review of Natural Products. Facts and Comparisons, 2000.
The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. Pharmacists Letter Inc., 2000.

This answer prepared 9/25/00.