Rashes on top of your feet and thighs can mean superficial blisters and red lumps that, when left untreated, may cause pain and scaring. They may also be itchy and uncomfortable. These rashes may be a symptom of an allergic reaction to food or medication, or can be caused by obstructed sweat glands --- what is called a heat rash. They may also be caused by a more serious medical condition, such as cryoglobulinemia, which, the Mayo Clinic explains, causes a rash called purpura on your lower extremities. Consult your dermatologist before self-diagnosing or treating any rash.
Natural Remedies
There are safe and natural ways to soothe a rash on your feet and thighs. Salves made with herbs such as aloe vera and comfrey provide relief to the redness and itchiness that can come with skin rashes. Comfrey contains allantoin, a compound that stimulates the regeneration of your connective tissue and whose tannins also help heal external wounds, according to the book "The New Holistic Herbal" by herbalist David Hoffmann. Aloe vera is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, soothing your skin and preventing infection caused by excessive scratching. Another herb that may help heal and relieve discomfort is witch hazel, which is astringent and is often used to treat skin rashes such as eczema and psoriasis, herbalist Rosemary Gladstar writes in her book "Family Herbal: A Guide To Living Life With Energy, Health and Vitality." Consult your doctor before using any herbal remedy.
Where to Find
Many natural food stores carry ointments, sprays and salves that contain the healing herbs that can help soothe and heal your rash. You can also purchase the herbs online to make your own remedies. If your condition worsens or does not respond to natural remedies, you may need antibiotics and more potent medication; these should be prescribed by your dermatologist.
Acute vs. Chronic Rashes
Depending on the nature of your rash, it may be an acute condition that will last less than a week, as is the case with allergic reactions. You should consult your doctor about taking antihistamines to facilitate your healing process. If your condition is chronic, you may be experiencing conditions such as psoriasis, eczema and erythema, which is a red rash that affects a specific area, particularly in the lower extremities, the University of Maryland Medical Center explains. Natural remedies can help treat chronic rashes, but you should use them only with doctor's approval.
What to Avoid
Avoid scratching your rashes, because this may cause your skin to become irritated and inflamed. You should also avoid taking hot baths or exposing your rash to hot temperatures that may aggravate your condition.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Vasculitis: Symptoms
- "The New Holistic Herbal"; David Hoffmann; 1990
- "Family Herbal: A Guide To Living Life With Energy, Health And Vitality"; Rosemary Gladstar; 2001
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Erythema
