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Natural Cure Athletes Foot

how to cure athletes foot at home?
(16 Jun 2009)

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Athletes foot is one of the most common fungal infections along with others like jock itch and ringworm. They all fall under the category of tinea infecions and the medical term for athletes foot is tinea pedis. Tinea infections are caused by dermatophytes, which are mold-like fungi that thrive on the dead cells or tissue on the skin, scalp, and nails.


Tinea infections are quite easy to treat and there are plenty of natural remedies that should be able to help you get rid of the infection.  

Athletes foot affects both the soles of the feet and the area between your toes, but can also spread to the toenails, and even the palms, groins, and underarms. It can spread from the feet to other areas through contact with the feet, as would be the case if you touched your feet and then proceeded to touch any other portion without washing your hands.


Athletes foot can be picked up by sharing foot wear, walking bare footed near swimming pools and public showers, and in locker rooms. The fungus responsible for athletes foot thrives in such environments as fungi need a moist and warm habitat. Tinea infections are not threatening or serious but they can be extremely irritating and discomforting because of the itching and soreness of the affected areas.

Treatment for the condition will require a combination of hygiene practices and home remedies. Since athletes foot infections can recur it is advisable that you continue to follow the lifestyle changes for hygiene purposes even after the infection clears. Warm water soaks with certain natural ingredients added in are among the most effective methods to treat athletes foot. You can add a few dtops of tea tree oil to the basin of warm water or boric acid, Epsom salts, and vinegar. You can also use a warm water soak with equal portions of water and apple cider vinegar. Allow your feet to soak for at least fifteen to twenty minutes after which you should dry them thoroughly. Antifungal powders should also be dusted on once dry and before using any footwear. Garlic also has strong antifungal properties and placing a few slices of freshly cut garlic in your shoes can help.

In the context of hygiene practices it is essential that you refrain from sharing any personal items and particularly foot wear, including socks, and also towels. Try to use open sandals and avoid wearing closed shoes. If you do need to wear shoes make it a point to wear cotton socks always. Never re-use socks without washing them thoroughly. If possible even change pairs within the day. Try and keep your feet dry and clean, and use a hair dryer on your feet after washing or soaking them.
answered by S D on 16 Jun 2009, 1:15:33

 

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