Stop the Itch with Natural Remedies for Athlete's foot

Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungus that can be itchy and bothersome. It can cause cracking and peeling between the toes and on the sides of the feet with red, itchy patches. It is contagious and can be spread on pool decks and public showers. So this summer let's try and keep our feet free of athlete's foot with ways to prevent and ways to get rid of this nasty fungus.

For preventing athlete's foot, first and foremost wear flip flops on pool decks and in public showers. I'm not a germaphobe but there is something about my feet touching the floor of public showers that makes me cringe every time. Tinea pedis thrives in moist, warm conditions so be sure to thoroughly dry your feet after you get out of the shower. Be meticulous and dry in between your toes. Some suggest getting the hair dryer out so that you can make sure those feet are dry. Expose your feet to as much sunlight and fresh air as possible by wearing flip flops and sandals. Also take a pass on wearing socks made from synthetic fibers or pantyhose.


Topically, there are many things you can do to get rid of Athlete's foot. My favorite is to do a foot soak in half vinegar and half warm water for about 15 minutes. It may sting at first but keep with it because after several consecutive days of soaks the fungus will go away. Make sure you thoroughly dry your feet after they are done soaking. I also suggest rubbing several drops of lavender essential oil and several drops of tea tree essential oil directly on the affected area. This blend of oils can also be put on a cotton ball and then rubbed on the inside of your shoes, helping to get rid of any lingering fungus and bad smells. Garlic is another ally against foot fungus. Garlic powder can be sprinkled on you feet and in your shoes or fresh garlic can be dipped in a little olive oil and applied directly to the foot. Be careful when you are using fresh garlic because it may burn the skin.

If athlete's foot continues to be a reoccurring problem it may be time to address any internal fungal overgrowths that might be present. Take probiotics to help replenish your good bacteria. Pau d'arco and black walnut are two stand out herbs that can be taken both internally and externally to help with fungal infections of all sorts. Echinacea may also be helpful to boost the immune system.

Don't let the itchy redness of athlete's foot continue. With these tried and tested tips, you are bound to have happy feet.


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http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001878/