Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection, and it is something those afflicted often hesitate to talk about. It is a form of ringworm which affects the skin between a person’s toes. There is no reason to suffer endlessly from athlete’s foot, however. By trying one or more of these natural methods, you can be rid of athlete’s foot in no time.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree essential oil is an amazing substance that has antifungal properties, making it an excellent first choice for treating your athlete’s foot. Simply put several drops on a cotton swab and gently wipe onto the affected area. Do this after waking up and before going to bed, and you should see great improvement over a period of time.
Grapefruit Seed Extract
This is another great topical remedy. You can apply it full strength between the toes and the surrounding area. Do this two to three times a day. Grapefruit seed extract can also be taken internally as a complementary therapy, killing the fungus from within. Just be sure to dilute it by adding it to water or juice when drinking it, juice being preferable as it has a very bitter taste if not masked.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is an antifungal agent and kills bacteria, which is what makes it an effective remedy for athlete’s foot. Sprinkle some baking soda into a bowl and add enough water to make a paste. Apply the baking soda paste to the entire foot, especially to the affected area. Rub it into the skin, then rinse it off and dry it. This is a soothing way to end a long day.
Yogurt
Yogurt is another easy remedy, and many people have it at home already. Be sure to use plain, unsweetened yogurt containing acidophilus bacteria, which is a good kind of bacteria that our bodies need to thrive and be well. Apply it to your foot, and let it sit until dry before rinsing it off.
Garlic
This is a remedy which is to be taken internally. Garlic has the amazing properties of being antibacterial and antifungal, and it is a natural antibiotic as well. This combination makes it a powerful tool in combating athlete’s foot.
Simply crush one clove into a glass, then add about a tablespoon of honey and enough water to drink it in a few gulps. Do this twice a day and you will see a difference in a short amount of time. Because of its antibiotic effects, be sure to take a high quality probiotic while you are doing this treatment, in order to replenish the good bacteria in your gut.
Fresh Air and Sunlight
Is there anything that sunlight cannot cure? Athlete’s foot is one of the conditions that sunlight helps to combat. Assuming that your climate and time of year allows it, take time every day to expose your bare feet to the sunlight. Take off your shoes, and walk around in your bare feet. This gives your feet time to breathe, and the sunlight acts in a healing manner. Fresh air allows the feet to remain clean and free of sweat, which is important in getting rid of athlete’s foot.
Athlete’s foot is unsightly, but it can be cured through the use of these natural, non-invasive treatments. Try a few of these today and see how quickly you can recover from this embarrassing condition. In just a short matter of time, you too will be ready for sandals and the beach.
