Natural Home Remedies for Athlete's Foot
By J. E. Davidson
Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection characterized by itching between the toes. Moist, white lesions may appear and cause a burning sensation. The skin of the feet may begin to crack open and blisters may appear. Damp conditions allow for the growth of fungus, and swimming pools, showers, and bathrooms provide the ideal environment. Sharing infected shoes or socks can spread the fungus from one person to another, and you may even pick up the fungus from a pet who may carry it on his fur.
Expensive over-the-counter and prescription ointments are available which will treat fungus, but try some of these simple and less costly home remedies for athlete’s foot fungus.
1) Tea tree oil has been used traditionally in Australia as a remedy for skin infections. It has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties. Oregano oil has similar properties. Either can be purchased at most health food stores. Rub a few drops of the oil between your toes once or twice a day to relieve the itching and burning.
2) Patchouli has antiseptic properties, and has been used as medicine since ancient times. Patchouli oil or soap used daily may relieve athlete’s foot and will make your feet smell wonderful!
Related Products
► Tea Tree Oil
► Patchouli Essential Oil
3) Make a solution of one part white vinegar and four parts water. Soak your feet in the solution for 20 or 30 minutes twice a day. After removing your feet from the bath, while they are still wet, rub some baking soda between your toes. Rinse the baking soda off after 15 minutes and dry your feet thoroughly.
4) Athlete’s foot may spread to the toenails and infect the nail bed, resulting in yellowed toenails. Keep your toenails clean so you don’t give the fungus a breeding ground. Vick’s Vaporub, the smelly ointment used for chest congestion, can be rubbed into the toenails and between the toes. In time, you will notice your nasty yellow toenails beginning to grow in clear again!
5) Keeping your feet clean and dry will help prevent athlete’s foot and minimize the growth of fungus if you already are suffering from the infection. Never go barefoot in public, and wear flip-flops or beach sandals when you are at a public pool, locker room, or shower. Dry your feet thoroughly using a hair dryer instead of a towel. Use antiperspirant on your feet.
Conclusion
Wear cotton socks which absorb moisture and change them every day. Sprinkle cornstarch between your toes before putting on your socks. Avoid wearing shoes that are made of manmade materials which won’t allow the feet to “breathe.” Natural fiber footwear will allow air to circulate around your toes and help control the damp conditions that contribute to athlete’s foot.
