General Description
This problem can be very embarrassing if you have to shake hands in a
social or business situation.
Causes
Excessive iodine may be the cause of excessive perspiration. Try
reducing your intake.
Iodine is found in kelp (the highest concentration of iodine known) and
iodine-rich foods, such as beef liver, turkey, asparagus, white onions
and
broccoli.
Remedies
Folk
Antiperspirants It works for your underarms and it will work
for your palms! Try this out in private first - you may not like the
feel or the smell!
Astringents Witch hazel or alcohol wipes help shrink pores and
reduce sweating. Try rubbing medical alcohol wipes over your palms
moments before you have to greet somebody.
Sage A tincture of sage is good for reducing perspiration. To
make the tincture, combine 1/2 cup of powdered sage leaves with 1 1/4
cups of vodka or vermouth in a well-sealed bottle; let stand for two
weeks, shaking twice daily; strain and store in another bottle. Take 25
drops 3-4 times daily, or as needed. Drink a cup of sage tea daily to
reduce perspiration, too.
Tea bags Hold a wet tea bag in your palm for 10 to 15 minutes
each day. You may need to use this technique for one to three weeks
before a major event. The tannin in tea (regular - not herbal) is an
astringent and its ability to shrink pores may
decrease the perspiration.
Zinc Taking zinc tablets has successfully reduced perspiration
and body odor. However, don't take more than 15 mg daily for more than a
week or two without medical supervision, as zinc may interfere with the
absorption of copper, another trace element.