Athlete's Foot

CONDITION: Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis)

 

OVERVIEW: Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that occurs on the feet, usually between the toes. Athlete's foot is very contagious and can be easily transmitted in public places where people are most likely to be barefoot, such as locker rooms, showers, and swimming pools. A study revealed that up to 15% to 25% of people will have athlete's foot at least once in their life.

 

SYMPTOMS:

• Itching
• Burning
• Skin blisters
• Cracking and peeling skin
• Red and scaly rash
• Discolored and crumbly toenails

 

CAUSES: Athlete's foot is caused by a fungal infection of the skin caused by dermatophytes, particularly the Trichophyton species.

 

WHAT MAKES IT WORSE:

• Moist and wet environments
• Sweating
• Closed-toe shoes
• A history of allergies or eczema
• Low immune function

 

COMMON THERAPIES: Medications for athlete's foot include topical antifungal prescription creams like clotrimazole, miconazole, oral antifungal medications like itraconzole or fluconazole, steroid creams to reduce swelling, and even antibiotics if a bacterial infection develops. However, even with the best conventional medications, athlete's foot can still return.

 

NATURAL INGREDIENTS WE USE:

Eucalyptus Essential Oil: Has anti-fungal properties

Lavender Essential Oil: Has anti-fungal properties

Macadamia Nut Oil: Nourishes skin

Olive Oil: Protects skin from damage

Tea tree Essential Oil: Has anti-fungal properties Vitamin E: Reduces irritation

Vitamin C: Has restorative properties

 

LIFESTYLE GUIDE:

• Avoid going barefoot in public places. Athlete's foot is extremely contagious.
• Keep your feet dry. Change socks daily and wear open-toed shoes to reduce moisture.
• Wear socks made with natural fibers like cotton.
• Eat antifungal foods. For example, add raw garlic to your meals.
• Use Wonder Balm for several weeks, even after symptoms have disappeared, to discourage reoccurrence.

 

Resources 

“Athlete's Foot.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 16 May 2018, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/athletes-foot/symptoms-causes/syc-20353841.

Crawford, Fay. “Athlete's Foot.” Evidence-Based Dermatology, pp. 358–361., doi:10.1002/9781444300161.ch37.