Natural Ways to Tackle Athlete's Foot: Home Remedies that Work
Some people naturally resist infection, while others need to pay closer attention to hygiene to avoid it.
Athlete's foot is a persistent and troublesome fungus that takes root between the toes and toenails but can spread across the entire foot.
Warmth and moisture are perfect breeding grounds for this fungus, with bathrooms and showers in hotels and pools being common places of infection. People who sweat excessively on their feet are more susceptible. While some have natural resistance, others are more prone to catching it and need to focus more on hygiene.
The symptoms include itching, cracked skin, dry skin, and discolored nails, often brown or yellowish in hue.
Fungi feast on sugars and yeasts, so it's advisable to reduce or avoid foods rich in sugar and empty carbohydrates. Supporting the immune system is crucial for fighting off the fungus. A diet rich in fresh vegetables, whole grains, and quality proteins such as beans, lentils, chickpeas, chicken, and sea fish is recommended.
It's also important to maintain a healthy level of "friendly bacteria" in the digestive system. Homemade pickled vegetables, like salt-cured cabbage or cucumbers, are great for introducing beneficial probiotics.
Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out toxins created by the infection.
Flaxseeds have antifungal properties – it's recommended to take two tablespoons a day.
Sometimes, you can treat athlete's foot with simple household items. Consistency is key.
- Fill a bowl with warm water.
- Add a tablespoon of baking soda.
- Mix in a tablespoon of coarse salt and two drops of tea tree oil.
Soak your feet in the bowl for 20 to 30 minutes. During this time, trim your nails. The soaking makes this easier. Dry your feet with a clean towel and apply cold-pressed coconut oil. Repeat this process at least twice a week, or more often. You'll likely see a change – nails will lighten, and the skin on your feet will improve.
To further enhance the treatment results, apply calendula cream between treatments. This ointment combats the fungus and prevents it from thriving.
