2-Step Home Remedy For Naturally Treating Your Athlete's Foot
If you have athlete's foot, you may have irritating symptoms, such as itchiness and burning between your toes. Along with any traditional medication you may be using, try the following two-step home remedy for treating the fungus and alleviating your symptoms.
Step 1: Submerge Your Feet In A Homemade Foot Soak
The first step in your home treatment involves submerging your feet in a homemade Epsom salt foot soak containing tea tree oil. This herbal oil is a natural fungicide that helps kill the fungus causing your athlete's foot. The Epsom salt helps remove any excess dirt and softens the skin around your nail beds to provide the oil better access to the root of the fungus.
In a container large enough to submerge both of your feet, fill it halfway with hot tap water. Then, add a cup of Epsom salts. Let the salts dissolve for about 15 minutes. After the time is up, the water should be at a comfortable temperature. If it is still too hot, add cold water until it is still warm but cool enough to be tolerable.
Add 10 drops of tea tree oil to the salt water, then put both feet in. The water level should be above your ankles. If not, add more warm water. Let your feet soak for about 10 minutes, then remove them. Dry them thoroughly with a clean towel, making sure to get in between your toes. Then, air dry your feet, and proceed to the second step.
Step 2: Apply A Thin Layer Of Cornstarch
Once your feet are dry, apply a thin layer of cornstarch. Excess moisture caused by sweat can feed the fungus and give it a nurturing place to grow. The cornstarch helps absorb moisture, wicking it away from your skin and toenails.
When applying the cornstarch, put on enough to barely cover your skin. Do not put too much on, as it could clump between toes, increasing the moisture and having the reverse effect of what you want it to do. Once you have applied the cornstarch, put on a pair of clean, cotton socks. Polyester socks make your feet sweat because the fabric does not breathe like cotton.
Using the above home remedy for your athlete's foot twice a day can help relieve your symptoms and could help the condition heal faster. However, if you notice there is no improvement, or you feel the fungal infection is starting to get worse, you may want to contact your podiatrist to discuss your treatment options.