Excessive sweating can be classified into physiological and pathological. Physiological sweating occurs in hot weather and during intense physical activity.
The most common pathological causes of excessive sweating are night sweats, which occur during sleep without conscious awareness, and daytime sweating, which occurs regardless of physical exertion, clothing thickness, or heat.
The main cause of daytime sweating is physical weakness or illness. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is believed to be caused by insufficient lung Qi and unstable defensive Qi. Treatment should focus on "tonifying the lungs and boosting Qi, stabilizing the exterior and nourishing Yin". Options include taking Bu Zhong Yi Qi Wan or Sheng Mai Yin to tonify the spleen and Qi, stop sweating, or chewing on American ginseng or ginseng. Other options include using Sheng Mai San and Yu Ping Feng Wan with modifications.
Sweat gland secretion is closely related to exercise intensity: the general rule is that the higher the exercise intensity, the more sweat is produced. As exercise intensity increases, muscle activity becomes more intense and more heat is generated. In order to maintain normal body temperature, the body must increase sweat production to dissipate the excess heat. Therefore, as exercise intensity increases, sweat production naturally increases. Proper sweating is beneficial to the body, but excessive sweating can be troublesome. Today, I will recommend 3 "sweat-stopping acupoints". Let's take a look together.
Massage the 3 "sweat-stopping acupoints" for profuse sweating
1. Hegu Point
Located in the middle depression between the base of the thumb and index finger, also known as the "tiger's mouth". Massaging Hegu acupoint has a significant effect in stopping hand sweating. "Hegu" refers to the convergence of Qi and blood of the large intestine meridian, forming a strong water and dampness wind field. Modern research has shown that massaging Hegu can cause contraction of the sweat glands.
Massage technique: Use the thumb of one hand to massage the Hegu acupoint on the opposite hand with force. The pressure should be sufficient to produce a tingling sensation.
2. Fu Liu Point
Located 2 fingers width above the inner ankle and between the Achilles tendon. The term "Fu Liu" means repeated and quiet evaporation of the moistness and Qi of the kidney meridian. Massaging Fu Liu acupoint helps regulate normal water metabolism. Hegu and Fu Liu acupoints are the "best partners" in stopping sweating.
Massage technique: Focus on massaging Hegu acupoint and lightly massage Fu Liu acupoint. When experiencing excessive sweating, massage Hegu for 2 minutes until a noticeable soreness is felt, then lightly massage Fu Liu for 2 minutes.
3. Zusanli Point
Located 4 finger widths below the outer knee crease, between the fibula and tibia. Zusanli is a major acupoint for strengthening the body and mind. Massaging it has the effects of regulating immune function, enhancing disease resistance, tonifying the spleen and Qi, promoting meridian circulation, dispelling wind and dampness, and promoting positive energy while dispelling evil energy.
Modern medicine believes that massaging Zusanli has a bidirectional beneficial regulatory effect on the adrenal cortex system, enhancing the body's disease resistance. It is particularly suitable for patients with chronic physical weakness and excessive sweating.
Massage technique: Use the thumb to press and rub the Zusanli acupoint, pressing down vertically, with slight tingling and swelling sensations. Release the pressure gradually after a few seconds of massage. Massage 2-3 times a day for 5 minutes each time.
Tips to reduce sweating in summer
Drink lactate beverages
Regular consumption of lactate beverages can be effective in treating body odor. Lactate beverages inhibit bacterial growth in the body, reducing the amount of bacteria expelled through sweat glands. This is because bacteria do not thrive in an acidic environment.
Wear breathable clothing
Some people think that wearing long-sleeved clothes can hide underarm odor, but in reality, it only makes the odor worse. Long-sleeved clothes, especially sweaters, increase sweating and accelerate the breakdown of sweat by bacteria. The odor becomes more concentrated and stronger. Therefore, on hot days, it is advisable to wear breathable, loose, and lightweight clothing for excessive underarm sweating.
Maintain hygiene
Sweat only produces an odor after bacterial decomposition. Keeping the body clean can reduce bacterial growth and prevent underarm odor. Use disinfectant (such as Dettol) or disinfectant soap to shower 2-3 times a day. If unable to shower frequently due to work, it is still important to clean the armpits regularly. After heavy sweating from exercise, it is important to shower as soon as possible to prevent bacteria from multiplying and intensifying the odor.
Reduce sweating
Excessive sweating is particularly severe in hot weather, so antiperspirants can be used to reduce sweating. Antiperspirants block sweat gland secretion and have bactericidal and disinfectant effects. Generally, applying once a day is sufficient. If the condition is severe, it can be applied two to three times, but not excessively.
Maintain cleanliness
Take a shower every day to keep the armpits clean, and wash the clothes in contact with the armpits every day. Consider shaving the armpit hair. Armpit hair is prone to bacterial growth, especially in the hot season when sweating is more frequent. Shaving the armpit hair can help reduce bacterial growth.
