Athlete’s foot is one of the most common types of fungal infections, according to the Mayo Clinic. This infection is widespread among athletes because they often wear damp socks and walk barefoot in locker rooms or other public places where the contagious infection lurks. Nevertheless, athletes are not the only ones who can acquire athlete’s foot. People with weakened immune systems or poor hygiene are also susceptible.
Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot
Athlete’s foot brings with it a slew of unwanted side effects. These include itching and burning of the feet, particularly between the toes. Cracking and peeling may also occur, causing some pain and irritation.
Remedies for Athlete’s Foot
Over-the-counter anti-fungal medications are commonly used to treat it. Topical creams, sprays and foot powders are other popular options. For those whose condition is accompanied by a bacterial infection, an oral antibiotic may be necessary. Natural and Alternative remedies for athlete’s foot include:
Olive Leaf Extract : A scientifically proven remedy for fungal infections, olive leaf extract contains phytochemicals that are potent enough to battle bacteria and fungus, offering relief to those with a wide range of illnesses and diseases.
Tea Tree Oil: A powerful antiseptic, tea tree oil is an effective natural anti-fungal that is used topically to cure acne, athlete’s foot, ringworm and toothaches. According to Medline Plus, topical application of tea tree oil is as effective at relieving athlete’s foot symptoms as a variety of common over-the-counter medicines. Tea tree oil is good to have handy because it has a host of other uses, such as treating sore throats, ear infections, and lice. Additionally, tea tree oil is a useful salve for burns, cuts and insect bites. Tea tree oil is a common ingredient in anti-dandruff shampoos. I love to mix the Tea Tree Oil with Nature’s Fresh Enzyme Spray or Silver Shield Gel and apply it topically – works like a charm!
Many people have also found it helpful to avoid white sugar and flour and pump up their intake of water, fruits and vegetables which always has a nutritive as well as a cleansing effect on the body.
Athlete’s Foot Prevention
Once you have successfully treated athlete’s foot, you will need to use proper precautions to prevent recurrences of the infection. Making sure to keep your feet clean and dry is the first step. Other important steps include:
- Wearing properly fitted shoes.
- Alternating shoes to give them time to dry out after you have worn them.
- Washing you feet daily, especially at night after a long day. This may hinder the growth of bacteria between your toes.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public places where athlete’s foot may be spread.
Related Products
Tea Tree Essential Oil has great anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. You can mix it with the Enzyme Spray, about 10-12 drops per ounce and make yourself a spray.
Nature’s Fresh Enzyme Spray has many uses, in fact you can learn more about it by reading a past Nature’s Field article on it.
Olive Leaf Extract has been know to help protect against unwanted invaders and supports the immune, circulatory, urinary and digestive systems.