Athlete’s foot is a common disorder of the skin that affects the feet. It is said that 8 out of every 10 persons is affected by this condition, but generally overlook it until it gets worse. Athlete’s foot is basically a fungal infection, caused by Tinea pedis, that infests the skin of the sole and that between the toes. Contrary to its name, athlete’s foot can be contracted by non-athletes as well. People visiting places such as gyms and swimming pools are at an increased risk of contracting athlete’s foot.
The symptoms of athlete’s foot include prickling and burning sensation of the skin. The skin looks reddened, dry and tends to peel off. In cases where the infection has become severe, the skin tends to crack, making way for blisters. The degree of symptoms varies from one person to another, depending upon the stage of their infection.
Athlete’s foot can be easily treated at home. However, it is advisable that you see a doctor if your infection has already progressed. Let us take a look at 10 simple tips to treat athlete’s foot at home.
- Baking Soda
Baking soda is an alkaline compound. Fungi cannot thrive in an alkaline environment. Take a spoonful of baking soda and combine it with water to make a thick paste. Gently massage the affected area of the feet with this paste. Leave it to dry for a few minutes and wash off. Pat your feet dry.
- Lemon
This citrusy wonder can help ward off athlete’s foot. Add freshly squeezed lemon juice in sufficient water and use it to wash your feet.
- Cornstarch
Wash your feet with lukewarm water and a mild soap. Wipe them completely dry. Powder the affected area of your feet with a thin layer of cornstarch. Leave it to work for 15-20 minutes and then clean off.
- Yogurt
Yogurt has the good bacteria that fight several fungal infections. Apply yogurt onto the affected skin. Leave it to dry and then rinse off. Within a few days of use, you will find relief from the itching and the infection will begin to abate.
- Vinegar
Prepare a vinegar foot bath by adding a cupful of vinegar to 2 liters of water. Soak your feet in the solution for 10-15 minutes. Pat your feet dry. You may use the easily available ordinary vinegar or cider vinegar. However, do not use this remedy if your feet have developed blisters, because it is bound to sting and make you feel worse.
- Tea
Tea is a rich source of tannic acid. Boil a liter of water and add 4-5 tea bags to it. Let it steep for 15 minutes. Let the solution cool down. Transfer it to a foot tub and soak your feet for 20 minutes. Dry off your feet thoroughly.
- Garlic
Garlic is an amazing ingredient to fight off fungal infections, athlete’s foot being one of them. Finely crush a few cloves of fresh garlic. Combine it with some olive oil and gently rub this mixture onto the affected area of your feet. Leave it for 20 minutes and then rinse your feet with a mild soap and lukewarm water.
- Salt
Salt! It makes food so sumptuous, and also is a popular home remedy to treat a number of health ailments. And yes, it can help treat athlete’s foot too! Fill the foot tub with sufficient water and add a couple of spoonfuls of common salt to it. Mix it well till the salt dissolves. Soak your feet for 10 minutes and then pat your feet dry.
- Honey
Rub raw honey onto the affected skin and leave it to dry for 10-15 minutes. Wash off. You can repeat the procedure twice a day. This natural humectant will not just heal your foot but also keep it soft and moisturized. Try it to believe it!
- Mustard
Mustard has amazing medicinal benefits. You can use either mustard oil or mustard powder. Fill your foot tub with sufficient water and add a capful of mustard oil or a spoonful of mustard powder. Soak your feet in the solution of 20 minutes to get rid of the infection.
- Ginger
Crush some fresh ginger and add it to 1 liter of water. Boil it for 10 minutes and leave it to cool. Wash your feet with this solution twice daily. You also get your feet to smell lovely!
These home remedies can cure athlete’s foot within a week. You should continue the treatment for a few days after the symptoms disappear to prevent recurrence of the infection. Make sure you clean your feet before you use any of the above remedies and dry them thoroughly afterwards.