Home Remedies for Athletes Foot

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the feet that that can spread if left untreated to the nails on the feet and on the hands. You will then be looking for a good athletes foot home remedy.

 

 

Athlete's foot thrives in warm, moist conditions and feeds from a particular protein that can be found in the skin, nails and hair.

Athlete's foot and other fungal infections such as ringworm are quite catching and can easily be picked up or passed on in public places such as communal swimming pools or gyms.

Ringworm can be a little deceptive in its name as it isn't a worm at all. Ringworm like athletes foot is a fungal infection which can affect the nails, feet, scalp, groin and torso. It often has the appearance of a round rash (note the name) and is very contagious as it can be passed on from infected people and domestic animals.

Ringworm is more common in children than adults and normally starts as a small red patch that becomes a very itchy round rash.

The Most Common Symptoms Of Athletes Foot

• A red and itchy rash that can often crack or peel, mainly between the toes but can spread to the soles.
• Thick, brittle and unsightly toe nails.
• Unpleasant foot odour

 

The Home Remedies For Athletes Foot

Essential oils

Essential oils are extremely good at treating fungal infections. So we tend to use them often in these home remedies for Athletes foot.

Mix 3-5 drops of essential oil in 1/2 fl oz or 3 teaspoons (15ml) sunflower oil. Rub the oils sparingly into the feet 2 to 3 times a day until fully absorbed.

For convenience you can make double the quantities given but don't be tempted to make up to much, essential oils are much more potent when fresh.

Store the oils in a dark glass jar (clear glass can be used for storing mixed oils in, but you will need to protect the oils by storing them in a dark place).

Best oils to use

• Lavender - Antiseptic and healing
• Tea tree - Antifungal
• Geranium/Birch - Anti-inflammatory and soothing
• Lemon grass - Deodorizing and drying

Foot Bath

An aromatherapy foot bath is one of the best Home remedies for athletes foot that there is, and they can be so soothing and relaxing.

You will need

• 3 drops of Birch essential oil and 6 drops of Geranium essential oil Or 8 drops of Tea Tree essential oil
• A large bowl or bucket, preferably square
• 2 gallons (nine litres) of hot water
• A clean warm towel

Add the oils to the bucket of hot water drop by drop just before you put your feet in to it. Relax and leave your feet to soak for about 20 minutes then dry thoroughly with the towel.

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Prevention of Athlete's Foot

May be used during or after using one of the home remedies for athletes foot treatments.

Athlete's foot can be stubborn and will often return when the environment is right, so to keep yourself protected, follow these simple procedures below.

• Always dry your feet, concentrating on the toe webs.
• After drying, use an antibacterial spray or powder on your feet or shoes (check out our Homemade Foot Spray sent in by Anne).
• Wear clean socks each day (preferably made from absorbent fibers).
• Athletes foot thrives in warm damp areas so wearing water proof flip flops in communal pools and showers will protect you from standing in any infected areas.
• Try going bare foot around the house on hot and humid days.
• Always avoid wearing tight fitting shoes that have little or no ventilation. Sandals and perforated shoes are much better
• If possible try not to use the same shoes every day. This will give them time to air between users.

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