Remedies to Soothe Itching Feet

Remedies to Soothe Itching Feet
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Several different medical conditions can cause itchy feet. According to the book "1,801 Home Remedies," some of the most common causes include simple dry skin and overly moist feet. However, if the skin on your feet is red, cracked, scaly, smelly or covered in painful blisters, your problem is likely more serious. These symptoms point to athlete's foot, a fungal infection. If you suspect you have athlete's foot, visit your doctor for treatment.

Baking Soda Paste

"1,801 Home Remedies" recommends using a baking soda paste on itchy feet to relieve burning sensations and quell discomfort. Add 2 to 3 tsp. of water to 1 tbsp. of baking soda, stirring the mixture until a paste forms. Spread the paste on your feet, making sure to get it into crevices such as the areas between your toes. Allow the paste to dry for five to 10 minutes, then rinse it from your feet with cool water. Pat your feet dry with a soft towel and apply a light dusting of cornstarch to soak up moisture.

Baking soda paste is a home remedy that is not medically approved to treat fungal infections such as athlete's foot. It may soothe the itching for a bit, but if something other than a minor skin irritation is to blame it won't cure the problem.

Saltwater Soak

Sometimes, soaking your feet in saltwater can ease irritation. According to "1,801 Home Remedies," a saltwater soak can soothe painful itching. To make a saltwater soak, stir 2 tsp. of salt into 1 pint of warm water. Pour the mixture into a shallow pan and immerse your feet in the liquid for five to 10 minutes. Repeat the process once every hour or so until the worst of the itching subsides.

Saltwater soaks are not approved as an effective treatment for fungus.

Walnut Hull Moisturizer

The book "Natural Foot Care" offers a recipe for a walnut hull moisturizer that can relieve itching that's caused by dry skin. Combine 1 tsp. of ground walnut hulls with 1 cup of water in saucepan. Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes over medium heat, then strain it through a fine mesh sieve. Pour 1/2 cup of the warm liquid over your feet, then pat them dry with an old towel. Mix 3 tbsp. of calendula blossom oil with 10 drops of tea tree oil and five drops of eucalyptus oil and massage the mixture into your feet.

Walnut hull moisturizer has not been approved by medical professionals as a treatment for athlete's foot.

References

  • "1,801 Home Remedies;" Editors of Reader's Digest; 2004
  • "Natural Foot Care;" Stephanie Tourles; 1998

Article reviewed by Lisa Dittrich Last updated on: Jun 30, 2010

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