10 Home Remedies For Fungal Infections
Skin fungus is a common infection that is
caused when certain fungal pathogens breed in moist or warm
environments. Fungus usually grows in shoes, socks, public areas like
swimming pools or gyms, and in showers. The microscopic fungus lives on
toenails, hair and skin and the most common symptoms are usually
peeling, itchy or burning skin. If you suffer from some of these
symptoms, there are a number of home remedies that can easily treat
fungal infections.
1. Stay Clean
Our feet can easily be our dirtiest body part, and it ins so easy to
neglect their health. In order to prevent or cure fungal infections, the
first step is keeping your feet as clean as possible. This can be done
by regularly having foot baths in which you wash your feet thoroughly
with soap and water. It is also recommended to scrub and exfoliate your
feet each week to remove the dead skin cells that may hold fungal
bacteria.
2. Keep Your Feet and Shoes Dry
As explained above, fungus develops in moist or wet areas, so it is
important to make sure that your feet and shoes are dry. Don't wear
shoes when you have wet feet (that includes sandals that are not made
from plastic), and make sure that you dry your feet thoroughly after
bathing. If your shoes are wet, place them upside-down by a window or
throw them in the dryer before wearing them.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
One of nature's most powerful medicines, apple cider vinegar can be used
to cure ringworm due to its strong anti-septic properties. When using
vinegar to treat fungal infections, clean the affected area well with
antiseptic soap before applying the apple cider vinegar with a cotton
ball on the same area. Then, to maximize the effect of the vinegar,
massage the area gently for a few minutes.
4. Nail Polish
Believe it or not, nail polish and nail
polish remover, known as acetone, can help remove and prevent the growth
of fungus on your nails. Usually, fungus on the nails appears in a
yellowish color, and if you experience these symptoms, one good way to
fight off the infection is by applying nail polish (either colored or
clear) to the affected nails. The nail polish or the acetone will dry
out the fungus in the nail.
5. Don't Wear Your Shoes For Too Long
Although many of us are on our feet all day, one of the worst things you
can do that promotes fungal infection is to wear your shoes for an
extended period. Because your feet sweat all day long (yes, all feet
sweat), wearing your footwear for an extended period of time keeps your
feet moist and fungus prone to growth. Try and remove your shoes when
you can, even if it's just for a few minutes, to air out the sweaty
area.
6. Powder
If you need to wear the same pair of socks and shoes more than two days
in a row, it is recommended to apply a dash of baby powder into the sock
and shoe before slipping them on. This will prevent the dead skin in
the sock and shoe from affecting your foot, and will keep any moisture
out that will facilitate infection.
7. Keep an Eye Out For Obvious Symptoms
Some of the most obvious symptoms of a
fungal infection are itchiness and burning in your feet or the formation
of a crusty layer of skin on the top of the feet. Also, there are
commonly small rashes that develop and itch (known as Athlete's Foot)
which is another obvious sign. It is important to be aware of these
telltale signs because the skin infection caused by the fungus is very
contagious, and once you have it, it is hard to get rid of.
8. Don't Wear Tight Fitting Shoes or Clothes
As mentioned above, fungus develops in your shoes and clothes because
your feet and body sweat and the moisture is a thriving environment fo.
Another way to minimize the seriousness of the fungal infection is not
to wear tight shoes that will prevent air from entering in and will
aggravate the infected areas.
9. Tea Tree Oil
This is a magical solution to fungal
infections of all sorts! Tea Tree Oil is a natural oil that has an
excellent drying and purifying effect. Apply the oil or tea tree
ointment to the affected area and leave your feet in the open for a few
minutes until it absorbs. It is recommended to apply the oil after you
shower to maximize the absorption into your skin. If the smell or
strength of the oil bothers you, you can add it to a lotion or other
scented oils. Other essential oils that work great are garlic oil and
oregano oil.
10. Use Hydrogen Peroxide
Although this ingredient may seem scary, a mixture of hydrogen peroxide
and water is one of the most effective home remedies for fungal
infections. When you have a foot bath, add a bit of hydrogen peroxide
into the warm water and soak for about 15-20 minutes. You can also rub
the mixture into the affected area but do so carefully and with gloves
on. If your skin is sensitive to the hydrogen peroxide, it is
recommended to use the essential oils instead that are a bit lighter on
the skin.
These are all great and almost entirely free home remedies to treat
fungal infections of the feet, back and other areas. Once you find one
that works great for you, make sure to share your wisdom with your
friends and family!