Natural Deodorant Tea tree oils antibacterial effects may help control underarm odor related to perspiration Sweat itself does not smell However when secretions from your sweat glands combine with bacteria on your skin a moderate to strong odor is produced Tea Tree essential oil is a natural astringent and antiseptic Its antibacterial properties can help purify the body and cut back on underarm sweat As a number of studies demonstrate tea tree oil has robust antimicrobial antiseptic antibacterial antifungal and antiviral properties These properties also kill the bacteria on your skin that cause odor making tea tree oil one of natures most efficient deodorants