Recently I wrote about Coconut Oil and Athlete's Foot. Good post. Go read it. I'll wait…. and then we can talk about herbal remedies for Athlete's Foot.
Back so soon? You sure you read it? Mmmmkay. I believe you!
Quick recap for you all… Athlete's foot is an infection also called tinea pedis, caused when various types of fungus invade the skin. It usually occurs between the toes but can also occur on the bottom and sides of the feet and is highly contagious. It can spread to other parts of the body (most notably under the arms and under the breasts) and can affect your toenails. Athlete's foot usually causes itching, stinging, redness, flaky skin, and burning.
Athlete's foot seems to be linked to adults only. But children are certainly not immune from contracting Athlete's Foot. It is not that difficult to get since children tend to run around barefoot a lot.
While coconut oil is still a great remedy to use, there are a lot of great herbal remedies for athlete's foot that are most definitely child friendly! Adults can use these too of course.
Herbal Remedies for Athlete's Foot
Tea Tree Oil – this is what I consider the first line of defense either after or along with coconut oil. Tea Tree Oil has tons of anti-fungal properties. It aids both in healing and in relieving the itch and discomfort. You can use it straight for children over 13 and dilute in water or coconut oil for young children. I like this one.
Myrrh – bet you didn't see that coming! Myrrh is actually another anti-fungal herb and while not quite as powerful as tea tree oil, it tends to be a bit more gentle. Myrrh is best used as a foot soak or wash. Warm water with about 10 drops mixed in works well. Myrrh can be tricky to find but this is always a good bet.
Garlic – another powerhouse and while not an herb, it needs to be mentioned! Garlic can be applied to the rash as a paste or in extract form. Kids get a kick out of the new twist on stinky feet. And while they are all full of giggles, the garlic is attacking the fungus and infection on their feet.
Let's hope you or your child is never cursed with a case of Athlete's Foot but if it happens, stock your natural medicine cabinet with coconut oil, tea tree oil, myrrh and garlic and everything will be alright!
Those sure are some cute feet! 😉