1. Masking: The primary approach was to mask the odor rather than eliminate it. People used strong and pungent fragrances to cover up their body odor. Certain herbs, flowers, spices, and resins, such as lavender, rosemary, cloves, and frankincense, were popular ingredients in perfumes, scented waters, and aromatic pomanders. These were carried on the person, often in small containers or sachets.
2. Herb-Infused Baths and Washes: Regular bathing was not widely practiced due to the belief that water could spread disease. However, scented herbal baths and washes were used for cleansing purposes. They were infused with herbs like mint, rosemary, thyme, and lavender.
3. Aromatic Powdered Herbs: People applied scented powders to their bodies to absorb moisture and minimize odor. These powders were often made from various herbs, such as lavender, iris root, and orris root.
4. Vinegar: Diluted vinegar was occasionally used as a deodorant due to its antibacterial and odor-neutralizing properties.
5. Perfumed Clothing: People would add fragrances to their clothing by burning aromatic woods or herbs near their wardrobes or by storing clothes in chests lined with scented fabrics or herbs.
6. Fumigation: Fumigation with herbs and resins was another method to improve overall air quality and reduce unpleasant scents.
7. Herbal Chewing and Inhalation: Some individuals chewed on or carried scented herbs, such as cloves or mint leaves. Inhaling their aroma was believed to refresh the breath and mask bad odors.
8. Essential Oil Rubs: Essential oils extracted from plants were sometimes applied to the skin as a natural deodorizing agent.
9. Gloves and Handkerchiefs: Fine ladies and gentlemen used perfumed gloves and scented handkerchiefs to subtly cover up odors.
It's important to note that these techniques were not always sufficient, and people often experienced significant challenges with personal hygiene due to limited access to water and sanitation facilities during the Elizabethan era. Nevertheless, they made concerted efforts to manage body odor within the context of the social and cultural norms of the time.