Millions of people in North America right now have athlete’s foot – an itching, burning fungus infection caused by Tinea Pedis. You don’t have to be one of them. If you have one of the following symptoms, the U.S. National Library of Medicine reports that non-prescription creams and all-natural treatments are often used to cure the problem:
- Red or cracked skin between your toes
- Flakey or itchy skin on your feet
- Skin that turns thick, swollen and white
- Inflammation and scaly skin surfaces
- Ulcers and blisters
If you’re experiencing any of those symptoms, try one of the following all-natural remedies to soothe the itch and get rid of the foot fungus.
1. Dehydrating Tea Soak
Green tea and black tea are natural astringents thanks to tannic acid in the tea leaves. This helps to dry out your feet, which removes the humid conditions the foot fungus needs to grow. Steep five or six tea bags in 1 liter of boiling water for five minutes, then remove the solution from the heat and let it gradually return to room temperature. Soak your feet in the astringent tea solution for half an hour every morning and evening to help dry out your skin cells on your feet.
2. Salt Water Soother
Salt water helps soothe itchy, cracked skin and helps to kill fungus and enhance the natural healing process in your skin. While walking along the ocean is the best to ensure you get a full spectrum of natural minerals, the next best thing is a salt water soak. Combine 2 teaspoons of natural sea salt with 500 ml of warm water. Stir until the salt has fully dissolved, then soak your feet in the salty water for 10 minutes every morning and evening.
3. Vinegar Fungus Blaster
Vinegar is rich in acetic acid, which kills fungus and prevents fungus growth. One research study found that vinegar had exceptional anti-fungal power, even better than synthetic chemicals and preservatives.
Vinegar soaks help kill athlete’s foot and other foot fungus, including toenail fungus. Make a solution of 1 part vinegar and 2 parts warm water, and soak your feet once a day in the vinegar solution for 10-15 minutes.