This condition may spread to other areas of the body, such as the groin or underarms, if left untreated for any length of time. There are a number of other medical conditions can imitate the symptoms of a fungal infection, such as eczema, psoriasis, allergic reactions to dyes or other chemicals in shoes and socks, and bacterial infections of the skin.
If you are unsure of the cause of your symptoms, or if your symptoms fail to respond to treatment, these must be reported to a podiatrist.
Natural, Herbal Treatments For Athlete's Foot
Ginger: This herb contains a compound called caprylic acid, which has proven antifungal properties. Simmer about an ounce of ginger root in a cup of boiling water and then apply it directly to the affected area of the foot at least twice a day.
Garlic. Laboratory studies have shown garlic to be an effective remedy for athlete's foot and other fungal infections. Soaking the affected foot in a tub or pail of warm water that contains several cloves of garlic generally relieves itching and burning. Garlic can also be mixed with olive oil and applied directly to the affected area once or twice daily.
Teatree Oil. Teatree oil is a very potent antiseptic and can be diluted with a base oil and applied directly to the skin of the foot three times a day. It is important to remember, however, that teatree oil can be dangerous if ingested. Use extra caution when using this essential oil
Licorice: Folk medicine practitioners have used licorice to treat fungal infections, notably ringworm, for centuries. This is because licorice contains the greatest number of antifungal compounds of any of the herbs. You can either add some licorice to your garlic foot bath, or boil six to seven teaspoons of dried licorice and apply it directly to the affected area.
Black Walnut. Used as a tincture or tea, can be applied for oozing skin.
Calendula. Calendula cream can be applied topically to help skin heal.
- Goldenseal. This herb contains anti fungal and antibacterial properties. Tincture is used internally and the powdered herb is made into a poultice and applied topically.
- Olive Leaf Extract. Thus extract has a powerful anti fungal which helps to heal microbial infections.
Camomile Oil. Camomile can be a very effective and soothing treatment for athlete's foot, and can be used alone or in combination with Teatree oil. A lot of people are allergic to chamomile, so test a small drop of the oil on the skin of your arm before rubbing it all over your infected foot.
Lemongrass: Lemongrass is an excellent herb for curing fungal diseases, and drinking lemongrass tea makes a nice medicinal addition to the remedies listed above. Drink a cup of lemongrass tree three or four times a day, or apply the tea bags directly to the infected areas of the foo
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/773680