Overview
Fungal infections that occur on the foot come in different forms. For instance, they may come in the form of athlete’s or fungal diseases that occur on the toenails. Although prescription and ordinary retail drugs can treat these infections, home remedies are also effective in treating such infections. Home treatments can cure both mild and moderate fungal foot infections. It is vital to look for a doctor’s help in case of severe instances of fungal infections.
Melaleuca Oil
This oil is extracted from tea tree. It has antiseptic abilities that help to cure fungal infections. You can use this oil in different ways. If you are suffering from toenail fungus, put a small amount of melaleuca oil directly on the infected areas of the nails. Carry out this treatment several times daily. If you are suffering from skin fungus like athlete’s foot, create a mixture of the oil (3 parts) and aloe vera cream (1 part) and rub it on the infected area of the skin two times daily. Melaleuca oil takes around 6 to 8 weeks to heal fungal infections. Therefore, you have to be patient with this treatment.
Baking Soda
This remedy has the ability to neutralize the smelling, itching, and burning that come with most fungal foot infections. This ability cures the infection without causing further irritation or scratching. Put baking soda (1 tablespoon) in a small bowl and add water to create a dense paste. Apply the paste on the infected part while paying attention to the skin between the toes. Allow the paste to dry for about five to ten minutes and then use cold water to rinse it. The next step is to pat and dry the feet with an uncontaminated towel. Apply some cornstarch to absorb sweat and any form of moisture that might help the fungus to thrive. Carry out this procedure 2 to 3 times every day until the infection vanishes.
Salt Soak
You can treat the sores associated with athlete’s foot by using a mixture of salt and water. Prepare the mixture by dissolving salt (2 teaspoons) in a quarter gallon of slightly heated water. Put it in a washbasin and soak the infected foot in the mixture for about five to ten minutes. Repeat the treatment severally each day until the infection vanishes.
Yogurt
Foot fungus can also be treated with plain, unsweetened, and live culture yogurt. This type of yogurt contains acidophilus bacteria, which hinders the fungi from spreading and destroys the existing fungi that cause the infection. Cotton swabs are used to smear the yogurt on the infected areas of the feet. The yogurt is then left to dry completely. The next step involves using warm water to rinse the dried yogurt from the feet. Perform this procedure three times daily if necessary.
Mustard Powder
This powder has a strong acid that kills the fungus. Mix one teaspoon of the powder with slightly heated water in a basin and soak the infected foot for about half an hour. Repeat the procedure at daybreak and before going to bed until the infection disappears. You can also use a few mustard oil drops if the powder is not available.