The Cause And Treatment of Tinea Pedis.
Athlete's foot is a skin infection caused by a fungus. It usually grows in the moist spaces between the toes but can grow in other areas as well. Another name for athletes' feet is tinea pedis; this fungus is closely related to those that cause jock itch and ringworm.
Athlete's foot can be mild or severe and the symptoms vary from person to person. The symptoms include itching, burning, stinging, formation of blisters, cracking of the skin, peeling, dry skin, and thickened or discolored toenails. The symptoms that afflict the skin can appear in between the toes, on the soles of the feet and on the sides of the foot.
Athlete's foot is spread from person to person and from objects to people. It thrives in warm moist conditions. This fungal infection may be prevented by keeping the feet dry and allowing air circulation to the feet as much as possible by going without socks and wearing open toed sandals.
Socks should be changed regularly, at least twice a day for people with sweaty feet. It is also recommended to alternate shoes so they have plenty of time to dry out in between uses.
When in public places, wear flip-flops or other waterproof sandals so feet don't come in contact with surfaces in pools and showers. Don't borrow shoes from anyone else and use fungal powder on a regular basis. Some herbs might be beneficial in treating athletes' feet as well.
Garlic is a known antifungal antiseptic. The feet can be soaked in a basin of water with added crushed garlic cloves in order to relieve itching and burning. In addition, garlic infused oil can be made by soaking crushed garlic in olive oil for a few days and then applying the oil to the feet.
Ginger is another well known antifungal herb. Prepare a solution by adding chopped ginger to a cup of boiling water. When the solution has cooled, apply it to the feet twice daily.
Tea tree oil is a powerful antiseptic that can be used to treat athlete's foot. Dilute tea tree oil with olive oil and apply to the feet three times daily. Tea tree oil is for external use only and should not be ingested.
Echinacea is well respected as an immune system enhancer and antifungal agent. This herb can be ingested in pill form or by tincture. Follow dosage directions on the label.
Turmeric is coming into wide use as an antifungal agent. This can be taken in supplement form or by applying the tincture directly to the affected area on the feet. Herbal powders are also recommended for treating athlete's feet.
These powders have antifungal properties and also work to combat moisture and make the skin a less desirable growing medium for fungus.
Keep those peeps clean!
Charles
