Right Pit, Left Pit. Why one stinks and the other does not...

Ever noticed how one pit smells different than the other? Or even why one pit smells while the other does not? Armpit symptoms like asymmetrical odor, fat deposits, and swelling, are more common than you might realize.

But they aren't something to be normalized.

Because the body speaks in symptoms when it needs our attention, this is one of those times we really need to really listen!

For aeons, holistic, naturopathic, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners have viewed these imbalances as reflections of deeper imbalances, stemming from both the body and energy systems.

So, instead of masking symptoms, instead of normalizing these imbalances, we use these clues as diagnostic tools to search for a root cause. The cause for a state of 'dis-order' that leads to these smells and swells.

Body asymmetry

Differing smell or swelling between armpits is often attributed to basic 'anatomical variations'. Oh sure, it's easy to just blame genetics, and fat distribution, for why one pit is different than the other, but these imbalances can be a warning sign of underlying lymphatic, endocrine, or even immune issues.

Stress, hormonal changes, diet, and immune challenges can affect each side differently by way of the lymphatic system and energy meridians which then lead to the asymmetrical symptoms that society just covers up with toxic products...

That often lead to more issues.

Unilateral swelling or ordor may be your body cluing you in on some lymphatic congestion or possible infection, translated by changes to the composition of sweat and bacteria expressed.

Hence, one pit stinks or feels sore while the other may not.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) takes it a step further by addressing each armpit and the specific meridians or organs they are connected to.

Traditional Chinese Medicine View

As each armpit is believed to be a map of imbalances between different meridians and organs, we have a better chance at listening to the body when we know which organs and meridians they are linked to.

Simply put, symptoms on the left armpit can be more closely connected with the Heart or Pericardium meridian. While symptoms on the right armpit may be linked to the small Intestine, Gall Bladder, or Bladder meridians.

Are you feeling a heavy heart?

Have you been eating a heavier diet than normal?

Has your digestion been a little sluggish lately?

Experiencing acid reflux when you eat?

These are all questions that may help you better understand the connections!

Another thing to consider through the lens of TCM, swelling or pain may be interpreted as Qi stagnation, Blood stasis, Heat accumulation, or Dampness in associated meridians/channels, influenced by organ dysfunction.

Acupuncture and acupressure treatments at specific points along these meridians, along with herbs for internal support, are used by TCM practitioners to relieve symptoms and support rebalancing of the energy flow.

A Holistic Approach to Armpit Ordor

Because symptoms like odor and swelling can be signals to a wider energetic or functional imbalance, personalizing an approach to restoring order is essential.

In Naturopathy, we may recommend a daily lymphatic drainage massage using a dry brush, compresses using castor oil, detox baths, internal detox protocols using foods and herbs, or topical detox products like the paste listed below.

We may also offer an emotional support protocol that includes journaling, personal review of boundaries and self care habits, as well as earthing to restore connection between the body and the Earth.

This multi-pronged approach is based on the client's needs, health history, activity levels, current diet, and considering any prescription medications being taken daily to avoid any conflicts.

*It's important to note, that underlying diseases requiring medical treatment can be a cause for asymmetrical odor and swelling so it's important to work in tandem with both your medical doctor and your holistic practitioner to support an integrated plan for your overall wellness. If you are under the treatment of a medical doctor, please consult them before starting any detox protocols mentioned in this article.

Steps you can take to reduce odor, naturally

Naturopaths like myself believe that a phytonutrient-rich diet can influence the microbiome and immune function, which, in turn, helps to regulate odor and swelling.

After all, we see time and time again that simply adding in a green algae like Spirulina or Chlorella, or even taking Alfalfa daily, can offer 'deodorizing' effects from the inside out.

We recommend to start with diet first

Because a whole food, phytonutrient-rich diet can help reduce the strain on your organs and help to declutter your digestion, it's important to identify imbalances and resolve any nutrient deficiencies as step number 1.

Our Eat the Rainbow course is packed with over 190 recipes based on every color of the rainbow to help you do just that.

By consuming a variety of these colorful foods, you'll flood your body with antioxidants, minerals, and fiber that detoxify, boost immunity, balance hormones, and restore the skin’s natural protective barrier. Benefits include, but are not limited to:

Enhanced gut and lymphatic health, the root of most odor and swelling asymmetry.
Stabilized blood sugar, stress resilience, and a flourishing microbiome.
Support for heart, liver, kidney, and immune function, which directly affects skin health.

The course also includes modules on nutritional deficiencies so you can identify other symptoms that may be linked to imbalances in your diet, meals plans to address each deficiency, and an all-new module on anti-nutrients for those of you who struggle with things like oxalates or phytic acid.

For topical treatment, try a detox paste

If you're hesitant about going from toxic, conventional anti-antiperspirant to a natural one, our Armpit Detox paste can help you detox the skin and avoid the stinky transition period.

Our Armpit Detox Paste bring together three proven, natural detoxifiers:

Bentonite clay absorbs toxins, bacteria, and excess oils while calming inflammation.
Activated charcoal draws out impurities deep in the skin, reducing odor and rebalancing bacteria.
Apple cider vinegar restores proper pH and soothes irritation for lasting freshness.

Simply apply after showering, let sit for several minutes, and rinse.

Incorporate this routine a few times a week (or daily during periods of increased odor or swelling) as you transition away from aluminum-based antiperspirant to natural deodorants.

The body speaks in symptoms, learn to listen

Whether symptom relief is your goal or you want to improve your overall wellness, it's important to understand that your body is not a nuisance. It's a finely tuned, highly intelligent organism that speaks a very specific language.

And symptoms are the way it speaks.

When you learn to listen, you become empowered with the wisdom and knowledge you need to make better choices on its behalf.

By combining internal and external approaches to support your health, you create balance and order that allow the body to heal naturally.

Remember to aim for harmony and total well-being instead of masking every 'annoying' symptom and you'll see your health take a drastic turn for the better.

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