Athlete’s foot is one of the most common fungal infections. While its symptoms aren’t so serious, it gives concerns. Having athlete’s foot should not be a big deal as there are numerous simple ways to treat the fungal disease. This article outlines 5 ways to treat athlete’s foot.
5 Magical Ways To Treat Athlete’s Foot
1Using of antifungal essential oils (Tea Tree Oil)
One of the most effective athlete’s foot treatment is the application of antifungal essential oils. While any of the antifungal essential oils is good, tea tree oil is about the best. It has both antibacterial and antifungal properties. However, it is important to let you know that some people react to the oil.
If you notice rashes or irritation on your skin after applying the oil for some days, you should stop using it. It is better you look for another alternative. It is not advisable to apply the oil undiluted. You can mix it with milder oils like olive or coconut oil. The mixture can be rubbed on the feet especially the affected parts.
2Garlic can also be used
Garlic has numerous medicinal benefits and its antifungal property is one of them. It is also effective against bacteria. To use garlic, you need to crush about 4 cloves of garlic and soak them in a bowl of water for about 30 minutes to 1 hour. Soak the affected foot in the garlic solution for up to 30 minutes at least twice a day and it should be done for 7 days. Once the athlete’s foot disappears, it is advisable you stop the treatment because garlic can leave a long lasting smell on the skin.
3A mixture of iodine and hydrogen peroxide
Although it is not news that a mixture of hydrogen peroxide and iodine can be used to kill germs in wounds, what people don’t know is that it can also work for athlete’s foot because it fights against fungi too.
You can pour the mixture in a big bowl and soak the affected foot in it for about 15 minutes. In the alternative, you can soak pieces of cotton pad in the solution and dab the affected areas with the soaked cotton pad. Iodine is strong enough to damage the skin so, you should never apply it undiluted. It is better to do it in a shower or bathtub to avoid stains.
4You can use hairdryer and talcum powder
This is more like a preventive measure. Since fungi actually thrives in wet environment, it is better to keep your feet wet to ward fungi off. You can do this by drying your feet with a hairdryer immediately after taking your bath. You can then apply talcum powder immediately after. The powder will dry up sweat around your feet.
Some people wear socks that have the ability to suck up moisture from their feet. This is a good idea too. You should also wear open shoes in warmer weather to allow more airflow around your feet.
5Use of baking soda
You can also use baking soda to treat athlete’s foot because it also has antifungal abilities. Add half cup of baking soda to a basin of warm water and soak your feet for about 20 minutes twice a day. Make sure you dry up your feet when you are done. Don’t rinse.
There are many other simple remedies of athlete’s foot and many will still be discovered. That being said, if you apply any of the treatments above for up to 2 weeks and you don’t see any improvement, you may need to see a podiatrist.