Athletes foot is a disease that is usually caused by fungus infection. Sufferers usually experiences scaly, cracks, and itchy rashes that may cause a burning sensation on the foot. Although this is not a life threatening problem and it is barely serious. But Having this problem can be very bothersome because it disfigures the foot and it look. It means you cannot go barefooted in any activity probably at the beach or pool because you want to save yourself some embarrassments.
Although this condition does not actually involves any strict medical attention -fortunately there are some home remedies that can actually help. Some of these remedies may be readily available at home, while others are can be gotten from health food stores.
Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
For those in Australia, this can be a very good remedy to try. Tea tree oil is an oil that comes from the leaves of tea trees, a tree commonly found in Australia. It has been known to have some antibacterial and antifungal properties. To use this as a remedy, place a few drops of the oil into a carrier oil, such as coconut or olive oil, then rub it on their feet. It is very vital to use tea tree oils in combination with other oils because they help to dilute it due to it corrosive nature. Again one should be careful about getting it close to the mouth because this oils are known to be poisonous.
Garlic
The application of garlic as a remedy has been an old family secrets. Garlic have a long medicinal history, and is very useful for several bacteria and fungus infections. All you need do in this situation is; Crush three to four cloves of garlic and mix in warm water. Soak feet for 20-30 minutes, you can do it twice a day for up to a week. This will help clear symptoms right off. But be sure to wash your leg thoroughly with a well scented soap after every pedicure in order to avoid retaining the pungent smell of garlic.
Hydrogen peroxide with iodine
I'm pretty sure that this will not come as a surprise because we all know how this two are effective when it comes to treating wounds and other dermatological conditions. Study have found that both should always go together for an effective result.
To begin with, mix iodine solution and hydrogen peroxide in a bowl or bucket. Dip the feet directly into the solution and let it stay for few minutes. You can as well use a cotton pad to apply the mixture to the affected areas. Try to do this daily until symptoms disappear.
Dry your feet and apply talcum powder
Fungus are organism that thrives best in a damp environment, when your feet are dry, it is very rare for fungus to attack. Always keep your feet dry as much as possible. Our shoes can also be a culprit in this situation, Always keep your shoes dry and free from moisture. You can either sundry or place some silica gel in them in order to reduce moisture.
You can treat athletes foot by using talcum powder, but before applying the powder, make sure the feet are dried enough.
Baking soda (sodium bicarbonate)
Baking soda is one of the best condiments we've got in our kitchen. We will not be exaggerating when we say that the benefits of baking soda are endless. Baking soda comes in handy as a remedy for a whole lot of medical conditions.
I know you may have been reaching out for backing soda to get some medical help. You can also pay this powder another courtesy visit now that you are faced with this situation, because it's always there to help. To make a perfect medicine, mix about a half cup of baking soda in a large bucket or basin of warm water. Soak feet for 15 to 20 minutes, you can do this at least twice everyday. When done, dry the feet thoroughly but do not rinse.
Bottom line
From these home remedies mentioned above, at least one of them should be effective in your case. But when you are done trying to be your own doctor and nothing seem to improve, you can call the attention of a medical practitioner. Or rather go to the nearest chemist for an over the counter medications.
