What home remedy can I use to get rid of my foot odor?

Foot odor is a very embarrassing condition. Imagine suffering from this condition and having to remove your shoes in a public place. If you want to get rid of smelly feet, keep your feet dry. Every time you wash your feet, dry them thoroughly so that an environment that fosters growth bacteria. If your feet are sweaty, you can use talcum powder to keep them dry. If you are out of talcum powder, you can also use a layer of newsprint. Both are excellent absorbents of sweat and help keep your feet dry. These days, there are also insoles that have anti bacterial properties. These are commonly available in the market and can be easily bought. Cedar wood, carved from the bark of cedar can also be used to help kill of the bacteria and fungi that can cause odor in feet.

Tea tree oil, an effective bactericidal, fungicidal and anti- viral oil is one of the best products for smelly feet. A simple rub everyday after your bath will keep those odor producing microorganisms at bay. However, tea tree oil is a very strong chemical and should be used only after proper dilution or as directed by a medical practitioner. Using it without caution could cause severe burning and irritated skin. Alum powder can also be used to keep your feet dry and fresh. Alum, usually used to purify water or heal wounds, is a great antiseptic. It is also a good moisture absorbent. Use this powder everyday before putting your socks on and in some time, the feet will stop sweating as much. Every night before sleeping, soak your feet in a warm basin of water. Add to this basin, a cup of vinegar and two spoons of salt. Soak your feet for about half an hour and the odor causing bacteria will be completely eliminated. If you do not like the smell of vinegar, as many do, you can instead use a simple topical antibiotic. Just take a small amount of the cream and rub all over your feet. Once you are through, wear loose fitting cotton socks so that the cream is not rubbed off. Sleep with this one for about a month and you will find that your feet no longer smell.

A lot of people have found relief from feet odors by soaking their feet in lemon tea. To prepare this soak, warm a basin of water and throw in a couple of lemon tea bags. Let the water steep for some time and then take it off, let it cool a bit and soak your feet into it while the water is still warm.

answered by M W

Foot odor or bromhidrosis (as it is medically known) is caused by bacteria that find comfort in warm and moist places such as the feet, socks and shoes. The bacteria then tend to breed and multiply. It turns into a nasty stench only when it comes into contact with perspiration. Foot odor is a common disorder but it must be treated to avoid discomfort to self and others. Some simple home remedies are best suited to treat foot odor naturally.

It is advisable to wash your feet well with warm water and soap to eliminate the presence of the bacteria completely. Washing it several times is a good idea but should not lead to absence of protective oils that line the skin. So wash well but not too frequently such that it damages the natural balance of the skin. Soaking the feet in a salt water solution (comprising kosher salt) and drying your feet instead of rinsing can eliminate any such bacteria from finding comfort on your soles. Using talcum powders to absorb moisture can be a great way to make the feet less moist. Powders containing aluminum chloride hexahydrate can help treat foot odor. Wear airy and comfortable socks made from natural fibers such as wool or cotton. Using talcum powder or cornstarch on the insides of shoes are common remedies to absorb moisture and keep the soles dry. It is also advisable to wear open shoes or sandals for women, while men can avoid rubber, synthetic lined shoes that do not allow inflow of air. Canvas or leather shoes allow air and help evaporate accumulated sweat. It is also advisable to air dry sneakers and canvas shoes instead of putting them in a dryer. Use deodorants on the feet to reduce sweat and help control the odor. Change socks or wear a fresh pair if you find your socks a little too moist for comfort.

Food intake is another important aspect that leads to foot odor. Eating certain foods such as garlic, scallions, onions and peppers cause smelly sweat. This in contact with bacteria can cause a bad odor. So avoiding such foods can also help reduce smelly perspiration problems. Stress and anxiety is also known to aggravate perspiration in people, this also helps bacteria feed on the sweat to generate a bad odor. It is important to acknowledge such stress and do away with stress by practicing stress relieving techniques.

answered by G M

Your body is trying to tell you somthing. A good start to address your concerns would be to undertake a detoxification diet under the guidance of a naturopathic doctor.

Also, try adding apple cider vinegar to your diet. About 1 oz per day. Buy a good quality organic, unpasteurized brand.

answered by Dr C M N