Athlete's foot, a fungal infection also known as tinea pedis, typically develops in the moist areas of the foot, such as between the toes. The infection usually causes itching, burning and an unpleasant stinging sensation. Closely related to other fungal infections such as ringworm and jock itch, athlete's foot typically spreads via human-to-human contact or object-to-human contact. In most cases, home remedies can relieve the problem. However, you should see a doctor if the condition does not improve after using home remedies, if you notice excessive redness, swelling or drainage, or if you develop a fever.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil, a powerful natural antifungal agent, may help get rid of athlete's foot. A 2002 study published in the "Australasian Journal of Dermatology" found that 72 percent of patients with athlete's foot applying a 25 percent tea tree oil solution twice daily for four weeks experienced significant improvement. Approximately 68 percent of patients applying a 50 percent tea tree oil solution twice daily for four weeks also saw marked improvement. In his book "Prescription for Natural Cures," James F. Balch recommends applying tea tree oil liquid directly to the affected area daily for six to eight weeks or until the infection clears.
Garlic Oil
Garlic oil, another natural antifungal substance, penetrates beneath the skin to kill athlete's foot fungus at its source. Bill Gottlieb, author of "Alternative Cures: More Than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies," recommends rubbing 2 or 3 drops of garlic oil onto the affected area before bed. Pierce a garlic oil capsule, apply the oil to your feet, put on a pair of socks to prevent getting the oil onto your bed linens and then go to bed. Repeat the treatment each night for two to four weeks, or until your athlete's foot disappears.
Black Tea
Black tea contains tannic acid that may kill athlete's foot fungus and provides soothing relief for painful or itchy feet, according to Paul C. Bragg in his book "Build Strong Healthy Feet." Add two or three black tea bags to a gallon of hot water and allow the mixture to steep until it's cool enough to submerge your feet, usually about 20 to 30 minutes. Remove the tea bags and soak your feet in the tea for at least 30 minutes. Repeat the treatment once a day until your athlete's foot clears.
Baking Soda
Although it won't cure the problem, baking soda may relieve the itch and burn associated with athlete's foot, according to the Reader's Digest Association in the book "1,801 Home Remedies: Trustworthy Treatments for Everyday Health Problems." Combine 1 tbsp. baking soda with 1 tbsp. water to make a thick paste. Rub the paste onto the affected area, allow it to remain for about five minutes, then rinse and thoroughly dry your feet. Follow the baking soda treatment with a dusting of cornstarch for the best results, as this absorbs excess moisture and sweat that may irritate the infection.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Athlete's Foot
- PubMed.gov: Treatment of Interdigital Tinea Pedis With 25% and 50% Tea Tree Oil Solution: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Blinded Study
- "Prescription for Natural Cures"; James F. Balch, Mark Stengler; 2004
- "Alternative Cures: More Than 1,000 of the Most Effective Natural Home Remedies"; Bill Gottlieb; 2008
- "Build Strong Healthy Feet"; Paul C. Bragg, Patricia Bragg; 2004
