Athletes Foot
Athletes foot is an infection of the skin on the foot. This is a fairly common infection that affects the areas between the toes. Severity can range from mild to extreme. This infection is easiest to cure if caught early. Athlete's foot may spread to the toenails in extremely bad cases, as well as the hands and fingernails. If treated early, it is a minor inconvenience. Once it takes hold and really develops into a severe infection, it is very difficult to eradicate completely.
Symptoms
Symptoms of athlete's foot include dry skin, itchiness, a burning sensation and red skin that may scale, flake and peel. As the infection gets worse, small blisters may form, the skin looks inflamed and eventually the redness will be covered with a wet, white surface. In extremely bad cases, the infection can spread to the toenails, which then become thick, crumbly and they may have an unpleasant odor. Once in the toenails, it is very difficult to treat.
Causes
Athletes foot is caused by a fungus. Fungi like damp surfaces and this particular fungus can be picked up from the floor of public showers, health clubs or in locker rooms. Sweaty socks and damp feet give the fungus the perfect place to grow. To prevent the condition, dry your feet thoroughly. Wear cotton socks that are absorbent and wick moisture away from the feet. Wear open sandals or go barefoot frequently to allow air to circulate around your feet.
Cautions
If you notice athletes foot, treat it as soon as possible to prevent its spread beneath the nails. Extreme infections may require treatment by a physician.
Herbal Treatments
Internal Applications
- Goldenseal – a strong anti-fungal and antibacterial herb, goldenseal tincture can be taken as an internal remedy for athlete's foot. Use this remedy in conjunction with an external application for the best results.
- Pau d'arco – this herb is antibacterial that can be used as an herbal tea, an infusion or a tincture. Drink a cup up to three times per day to treat infections.
External Applications
- Black walnut – apply the tincture or the tea directly onto oozing skin for healing and relief.
- Calendula – this herb can be found commercially in a topical cream to apply to skin irritations like athletes foot. This may be sufficient in mild cases.
- Olive leaf – an extract of olive leaf is a strong anti-fungal which can be applied directly to the skin to heal the infection.
- Goldenseal – this herb is both anti-fungal and antibacterial. Apply the powdered herb as a poultice to the affected area.
- Tea tree oil – apply the oil topically to relieve the burning and itching common with the condition. This oil is strong. It may be better tolerated if it is diluted into a carrier oil like sweet almond oil first.
- Thyme oil – this herb's essential oil is a very strong anti-fungal which is effective in treating fungal infections. It also provides protection from staph, which may take advantage of lowered resistance during bad infections of the skin.
- Garlic – place slices of fresh garlic inside your shoes and wear this all day long. Garlic is anti-fungal and antibacterial.