Curing Athletes Foot
February 16, 2009
You don’t have to be an athlete to get athlete’s foot, although the problem is a common problem among athletes. Athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus called tinea pedis. It lives and thrives in warm moist places like showers and swimming pools. Athlete’s foot can affect the feet, toenails, and even fingernails. When the fungus affects the feet, it can cause painful blisters, scaling, inflammation, and the feet may even crack open between the toes or at the heels. Burning and severe itching are common.
If your feet come in contact with wet floors, you are at risk for athlete’s foot. Hygiene is also important; make sure your socks and shoes are always cleaned. When you wash and dry your feet, clean and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. If you suspect athlete’s foot, treat it right away. Once a condition develops, it can be very hard to kill the fungus. Here are some proven ways to kill the fungus on the foot.
Treatments for Athlete’s Foot
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has anti-fungal properties that make it one of the best treatments for athlete’s foot. Mix two teaspoons of tea tree oil in four teaspoons of water and apply the solution to the infected area. Massage the mixture into your feet for 10 minutes, then rinse with warm water and thoroughly dry your feet. This method can show positive results after only a few days of regular use.
Powder
There are a number of anti-bacterial and anti-fungal powders that you can use before putting on your socks and shoes. This will help keep your feet dry, and dry feet are less likely to be infected with athlete’s foot.
Herbal Bleach
A few drops of herbal bleach mixed into a generous quantity of water make an excellent soak for the feet. Soak your feet for 10 minutes before bed, then dry with a clean towel. For best results, do this on a daily basis.
Hydrogen Peroxide
You can apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to the affected areas of your feet. Because hydrated peroxide is a strong chemical, only about a teaspoon will be needed. You will see the liquid begin to bubble, which is a sign that it is working. After a few minutes, rinse your feet well. Repeat up to three times a day for best results.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Fungus can be killed by the acid content of vinegar. Add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a bowl full of warm water and soak your feet for about 10 minutes. Dry afterwards with a clean towel. Repeat daily and you’ll soon notice an improvement!
Mouthwash
The chemicals in mouthwash that kill the germs that cause bad breath can also kill the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. Massage a few drops of mouthwash onto the affected areas of your feet. Leave for five minutes, then rinse with cool water. Dry thoroughly afterwards.
Epsom Salt
Make an Epsom Salt foot bath by mixing 2 tablespoons of Epsom Salts into a bowl of warm water. Soak your feet for about 15 minutes. Dry your feet then apply moisturizer. Use this foot bath twice a week for best results.
Tips
? Wash and dry your feet at least once a day.
? Change your socks at least once a day. Cotton socks which breathe are a good choice.
? Try not to wear the same pair of shoes every day so your shoes have a chance to dry completely after wearing. Use a cotton cloth to clean the inside of your shoes.
? Use footwear that allows air to circulate around your feet.




























