Body odor

The aroma or fragrance emanating from the human body. It may be derived from sweat gland secretions, urine, feces, expiration, saliva, breasts, skin, and sex organs. The major sources are the eccrine and apocrine sweat glands. Sebaceous gland secretions from the skin contribute to these odors. Eating garlic or onions or taking certain drugs may add to the odors produced by sweat glands, but the major sources of body sweat odor are the volatile fatty acids, steroids, and amines emitted by apocrine glands. Bacteria and fungi in and around these glands can intensify the odors. The secretions increase at puberty and decrease after menopause, are enhanced by stress, and are partially genetically controlled.


 


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