Athlete’s Foot
See also acupuncture, aromatherapy eczema, food as medicine, foot care herbal therapy, holistic therapy, jock itch, psoriasis, stress.
Athlete’s Foot is a fungal infection of the skin also known as “tinea pedis”. In an acute flare-up, the skin of the foot is red or white with scales, cracks, inflammation, cuts, and blisters. There is itching, burning, and stinging. Most often, it occurs in between the toes. During an acute flare-up, secondary bacterial infection is common. In chronic athletes foot, the skin of the sides and sole of the foot is pink and scaly and there is no itchiness.
Tinea pedis can also infect the scalp, where it causes hair loss and scaly patches. It can infect the body, where it causes round, red, scaly patches, such as ring worm that itch and at the groin, where jock itch causes itching, redness and thickening of the skin. The fungus lives off dead skin cells and thrives in warm, damp environments, such as the floors around gym locker rooms, showers and indoor swimming pools.
Don’t be confused. Athletes foot can sometimes be confused with dyshydrotic dermatitis, contact or atopic dermatitis, erythrasma and psoriasis.
Managing Athlete’s Foot
Prevention is key so it is important to take the following steps to prevent infection:
1. Good hygiene is vital. Keep your feet clean. Wash your feet twice a day with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly. Wash your hands with soap and water after coming into contact with the infected area. After bathing, wash out the tub or shower with an antiseptic cleaner such as Lysol.
2. Keep your feet thoroughly dry, especially between your toes. Use a foot powder to keep feet dry. Simple corn starch makes a good foot dusting powder.
3. Wear cotton socks, and change your socks daily. Wash socks in the hot water setting of a washing machine. Be sure to rinse the socks thoroughly during laundering, because detergent residue can aggravate your skin problem.
4. Don’t wear tight, closed-toe shoes. Moisture and heat cause athlete’s foot fungus to thrive. Natural materials such as cotton and leather create the best environment for feet, while rubber and even wool may induce sweating and hold moisture.
5. Whenever possible, such as during the summer, wear airy shoes such as sandals. Don’t go barefoot in public places. Wear slippers or flip-flops.
6. Don’t share towels, and keep your linens and towels clean.
7. To further keep your feet dry, allow them to air-dry for 5 or 10 minutes after a shower.
8. Freshen your shoes once a week and keep them clean.
9. Remove dead skin as the initial stage of athlete’s foot has seemed to settle down, remove any dead skin. This skin contains living fungi that can reinfect you. In the bath tub, vigorously work the entire foot with a bristle scrub brush. Pay special attention to spaces between the toes. Use a small bottle brush or clean toothbrush. If you scrub your feet in the bathtub, shower afterward to wash away any bits of skin that could attack to other parts of the body and start an infection.
10. Toenails are favorite breeding spots for the fungi. Scrape the undersides of your toenails clean at least every second or third day. Be sure to use a wooden stick, toothpick, or wooden match instead of a metal nail file, which could scratch the nails and provide niches for the fungus to grow in.
Learn more ways to care for your feet! The goal in treating athlete’s foot is to kill the fungus. The tinea fungus is contagious and once it takes hold, it can be quite tenacious to get rid of. If you are dealing with athlete’s foot now, here are some of the best natural remedies for athlete’s foot:
Balancing Ph levels
When the body is too acidic resulting from an intake of acid forming foods, mucus forming, high fat foods, and toxic food residues, disease and infections are encouraged. This is especially true in cases of arthritis and rheumatic situations. Most foods are alkaline by nature, but often the more processed the foods are the more acidic they become. It is important to balance each meal with a ratio of 75% alkaline to 25% acidity in order to maintain better health. Perfect body pH is 6.4, above is alkaline and below is acidic. It is important that your daily dietary intake of food naturally balances your body pH. Balancing the body’s pH is achieved by avoiding foods that create acidic conditions in the body, which can help lessen pain and inflammation.
Foods that create acidity in the body include, meat, dairy, hydrogenated fats, wheat and sugar.
Foods that help restore balance include fruits (when eaten on an empty stomach), vegetables and legumes.
Eliminate: butter, all fried foods, margarine, red meat, shellfish, shortenings or tropical oils (such as coconut and palm oils).
Limit foods that have little or no fiber such as ice cream, cheese, meat, snacks like chips and pizza, and processed foods such as instant mashed potatoes or already-prepared frozen dinners. Too much white flour and refined sugar.
“Andrew’s Best Remedies”
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Angel’s Mist Oregano Essential Oil
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Angel’s Mist Peppermint Essential Oil
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Angel’s Mist Tea Tree Essential Oil
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Angel’s Mist Thyme Essential Oil
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Angel’s Mist Aroma Remedy Blends
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Apple Cider Vinegar 12 oz
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Drying Powder
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Foot Detox Patches
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Garlic Allicillin™ 60 gels
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Garlic Tincture
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Herbal Fungal Cream
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Himalayan Salt Raw
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Neem Powder 1/2 lb (Certified Organic)
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Herbal Remedies
The medicinal benefits of herbs have been recorded for centuries. Herbs were extensively used to cure practically every known illness and has been documented by Egyptian, Roman, Native American, Persians and Hebrews alike. Many herbs contain powerful ingredients that, if used correctly, can help heal the body. By using herbs in their complete form, the body’s healing process utilizes a balance of the ingredients provided by nature.
Bromelain is a plant-enzyme. Bromelain is not actually a single substance, but a group of protein-digesting enzymes found in pineapple juice and in the stem of pineapple plants. Local swelling is the releasing of histamines in a localized area causes the vasodilation and increased permeability of blood vessels. Bromelain has an anti-inflammatory effect and is a very effective treatment for fibromyalgia. It is recommend taking 200 to 400 milligrams three times a day on an empty stomach at least ninety minutes before or three hours after eating. Discontinue use if you develop any itching or rash.
Calendula Flower (Calendula officinalis) or Marigold flower is rich in anti-fungal, antiseptic oils that can be taken internally to fight infection. 20 – 30 drops of this tincture can be infused into a non fragrant body lotion and massaged into the athletes’ foot infection.
Echinacea Root stimulates the immune system. This antiseptic herb is a great way to rid the body of microbial infections both bacterial and viral. Take as a tincture, one teaspoon, every two hours for 7-10 days. Caution: Recommended to take 7 – 10 days at a time only, with a break in between.
Garlic is traditionally considered to be one of the most powerful immuno-supportive herbs for maintaining the body’s defenses against viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi. Researchers have confirmed that the greatest range of benefits are obtained from whole, fresh garlic.
Myrrh is a wonderful pain killer. This antiseptic oil works miracles on cracked skin. It can speed the healing of eczema. The anti-fungal properties make it just right for a foot bath for athlete’s foot, as a vaginal wash for thrush and a very good remedy for pain in Chinese medicine.
Supplements
Acidophilus: The normal, healthy colon contains “friendly” bacteria (85% lactobacillus and 15% coliform bacteria). It is the friendly bacterial flora found in yogurt and is essential to the digestive system. When these bacteria are not in balance, then the person may experience bloating, flatulence, constipation, and malabsorption of nutrients. Acidophilus taken as a dietary supplement may help to detoxify and to rebuild a balanced intestinal flora. It is used for the prevention of Candida as well as for treatment. Acidophilus aids the digestion and helps to replace the “friendly” intestinal flora.
Garlic: is traditionally considered to be one of the most powerful immuno-supportive herbs for maintaining the body’s defenses against viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi. Researchers have confirmed that the greatest range of benefits are obtained from whole, fresh garlic.
Probiotic: A probiotic will fortify your intestinal flora, which are essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. This is key to good health and a strong immune system. Studies have shown that patients who begin a course of probiotics with fiber a few days prior to surgery are less likely to pick up a post-operative infection during their hospital stays. This demonstrates a strong connection between intestinal flora and immune function. The fiber, which provides the friendly bacteria both food and sanctuary, can be as simple as an apple or banana.
Turmeric: Turmeric is a traditional ayurvedic remedy and medicine that has been researched for its ability to promote a healthy inflammation response, support cardiovascular health, and support normal cell growth. An effective anti-inflammatory. Dosage: 400 mg three times daily; take on an empty stomach and combine with 1,000 mg of bromelain
Vitamin C acts primarily in cellular fluid. Vitamin C scavenges free radicals and cleans up waste products. In addition to its anti-oxidative activities, vitamin C benefits many other body functions. Vitamin C is necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which is an important component in the structural make up of blood vessels, tendons, ligaments, and bone. Vitamin C also plays an important role in the synthesis of the neurotransmitters and norepinephrine. Neurotransmitters are critical to brain function and are known to affect mood. Vitamin C, even in small amounts, can protect molecules in the body, such as proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) from damage by free radicals. Vitamin C helps in the fight against free-radical formation caused by pollution and cigarette smoke and also helps return vitamin E to its active form. Take 2,000 – 8,000 mg in divided dosage per day, depending on bowel tolerance.
Foot Soak
To treat athlete’s foot, prepare a solution of water and white vinegar—one part white vinegar to four parts water; soak your feet for 20 to 30 minutes twice a day. Then sprinkle some baking soda between your toes and rinse your feet after fifteen minutes. It is as effective as an expensive anti-fungal powder.
Two additions to this treatment:
Essential Oils: consider these essential oils which both have anti fungal properties. Soak your feet for 20 minutes twice a day in this solution
~ Add 8-10 drops of tea tree essential oil
~ 4-6 drops of lavender essential oil
Sea salt:
Tinea pedis, the fungus that causes athlete’s foot can’t thrive in saline solutions. Dissolve about a 1/2 cup salt in a gallon of warm water, and soak your feet in the water for 20 minutes.
Lower Your Phosphorus Food Intake
Decrease phosphorus foods. Foods such as soft drinks, which are high in phosphoric acid, organ meat (liver, kidney), processed meat, which are especially high in phosphorus, fried foods and vegetable oil, which have a high level of omega 6… can make inflammation worse.
A low phosphorus diet has also shown to be beneficial with those who have kidney disease.
Sugar results in poor absorption of nutrients, as does antacids, which neutralize stomach acid and result in poor absorption of calcium. Heartburn and indigestion are caused by poor eating habits and NOT ENOUGH stomach acid!
It is important to balance each meal with a ratio of 75% alkaline to 25% acidity in order to maintain better health. When the body is too acidic it can decrease the body’s ability to fight infections.
Aromatherapy Remedies
Aromatherapy offers some of the best remedies for tinea pedis fungal infection and they are in the form of essential oils! Helpful, are essential oils of eucalyptus, lavender, myrrh, patchouli and tea tree and thyme oils and are all beneficial for destroying fungal infection. In fact, they seem to work as well if not better than pharmaceutical anti-fungal products.
Tea Tree: (Melaleuca alternifolia) is the most common natural treatment for athlete’s foot. Tea tree oil has anti-fungal properties. Tea tree oil can be applied directly to the skin three times a day, covering the affected area. About 4 to 10 drops is sufficient. Continue for two weeks after the fungal infection seems to have disappeared to ensure that it is eradicated. Tea tree oil also helps with fungal infections of the nails.
Oregano Oil (Origanum vulgare): The rich, herbaceous oil contains the active ingredients of carvacrol and thymol. They are used to fight fungus infection. One study not only found that it can treat athlete’s foot, but it had the most anti-fungal powers of many over the counter remedies. Apply three drops oil of oregano affected feet and nails. (Please note: The difference between Oil of Oregano vs Oregano Oil is that Oil of Oregano is already diluted in a carrier oil. It is better to by Oregano Oil and dilute it yourself, by adding a few drops of Oregano Oil to any carrier oil (jojoba, sunflower, safflower…)
Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globus): reduces pain, spasms and inflammation, stimulating local blood circulation and the removal of waste products and toxins from the tissues. Eucalyptus helps new tissue to form. This oil has strong anti-fungal, anti-viral and immune stimulating properties. Caution: do not use along with homeopathic remedies, use only for a week at a time and do not use on babies or young children.
Myrrh (commiphora myrrha) is a wonderful pain killer. This antiseptic oil works miracles on cracked skin. It can speed the healing of eczema. The anti-fungal properties make it just right for a foot bath for athlete’s foot, as a vaginal wash for thrush and a very good remedy for pain in Chinese medicine.
Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin): This rich, spicy oil so often used for nausea also helps normalize blood pressure either by raises blood pressure by restricting external blood flow, or lowers it by dilating surface blood vessels. This oil is warming and an antiseptic. This oil is one of the best for fungal infections on the skin. Especially for athlete’s foot, chapped, dry skin, acne, eczema and dermatitis.
Lavender (Lavendula latifolia): is probably the most helpful and Universal oils on the planet. This anti-inflammatory oil blends well with other oils such as soothing Chamomile, pain relieving Rosemary essential oil.
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris): is one of the most useful medicinal herbs in natural healing. This oil is an antiseptic, disinfectant, antibiotic and strong germicide. It is extremely valuable for fighting infections
Not a DIY (do it yourself-er)?
Andrew’s Aroma Remedy Blends: ~ 3 times a day, morning, noon and night, utilize these blends of essential oils:
Angel’s Athlete’s Foot Rub Remedy Blend
Study with Tea Tree
Studies have found tea tree oil is an antiseptic and has the ability to kill many bacteria and fungi. Two clinical trials suggest it may help people with athlete’s foot. One study examined the effectiveness of 10 percent tea tree oil cream compared with 1 percent tolnaftate (a medicated topical anti-fungal) and placebo creams in 104 people with athlete’s foot. The tea tree oil and tolnaftate groups showed improvement in scaling, inflammation, itching, and burning compared to the placebo group, however, only the tolnaftate eradicated the fungi more effectively than a placebo. Tea tree oil can also be mixed with aloe vera gel. About 4 ounces of aloe vera gel to 1/2 teaspoon of tea tree oil can be combined in a spray bottle and applied twice daily. Allow the feet to dry before putting on footwear.
Spot Treatment
Use Andrew’s own Angel’s Mist Essential Oils and combine 12 drops tea tree oil, 5 drops cedarwood oil, 3 drops geranium oil, 7 drops of lavender oil to 1/4 ounce of a carrier oil such as jojoba. Put these oils in a dark glass bottle and close the lid. Turn the bottle over several times to mix the ingredients and every time before using this formula. Apply a small amount to a cotton ball and dab lightly on affected spots, twice a day.
Hydrotherapy
The mysterious and amazing healing power of water has been utilized for centuries. Water cleanses, refreshes and restores all life. We are always drawn to water. Be it a soothing fountain or majestic waterfall. Water is a carrier. It flows. It moves along the line of least resistance to find its way to the ocean where comes and goes in the ebb and flow of tides and waves. The appeal is inexplicable! We crave water, maybe because our bodies are made up of a large percent of it. Maybe because we instinctively know how it can heal us.
Hydrotherapy is the use of water in any form, in the treatment of dis-ease.
Soaking in Dead Sea Salt is a well known remedy athlete’s foot. This is good for relaxing muscles and drawing toxins from the body. When magnesium sulfate is absorbed through the skin, such as in a bath, it draws toxins from the body, sedates the nervous system, reduces swelling, relaxes muscles, is a natural emollient, exfoliate, and much more. Salt. soak your infected foot in warm salt water, using 1 teaspoon salt for each cup of water, for 10 minutes. Dry your foot thoroughly, then dab some baking soda between your toes.
Foot bath for athlete’s foot. In this method, the patient should keep his or her legs in a tub or bucket filled with hot water at a temperature of 104F to 113F. Before taking this bath, a glass of water should be taken and the body should be covered with a blanket so that no heat or vapor escapes from the foot bath. Consider adding anti-fungal oils of eucalyptus, lavender, myrrh, patchouli and tea tree and thyme oils as these oils are all beneficial for destroying fungal infection. Soak your feet for 15 minutes. Take them out of the bath and dry them very well.
Apple Cider Vinegar Baths or ginger root baths can reduce symptoms and encourage the healing mechanism. Apple cider vinegar helps the body to make more effective use of calcium in the body, encouraging stronger bones, hair and nails. It is a great tonic to help the body improve metabolism, is antispasmodic, anti-fungal and antibacterial. It helps alkalize the body and is rich in potassium, which supports cell growth. Apple cider vinegar has been used to treat earaches, infections, arthritis and digestive issues. It also assists in the detoxification of the body. It is easily accessible, inexpensive and useful for a variety of disorders.
Vinegar Soak immerse your feet in 1 cup vinegar to 2 quarts water for 15 to 30 minutes every night. Or make a solution of 1 cup vinegar to 1 cup water, and apply it directly to the affected areas with a cotton ball. If the infection is severe and the skin is raw, the solution will sting. Make sure your feet are completely dry before putting on your socks or slippers. Cider vinegar can also be used as a remedy.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Mix equal parts apple cider (or regular) vinegar and 70% ethyl alcohol. Dab on the affected areas. Again, be aware this will sting if the skin is raw.
Epsom Salts
Epsom Salts are a rich source of magnesium. Magnesium helps to regulate the activity of more than 325 enzymes and performs a vital role in orchestrating many bodily functions, from muscle control and electrical impulses to energy production and the elimination of harmful toxins. Epsom Salt also delivers sulfates, which are extremely difficult to get through food but which readily absorb through the skin. Sulfates serve a wide variety of functions in the body, playing a vital role in the formation of brain tissue, joint proteins and the mucin proteins that line the walls of the digestive tract.
Sulfates also stimulate the pancreas to generate digestive enzymes and are believed to help detoxify the body’s residue of medicines and environmental contaminants. Soak in a tub full of hot water with a few cups of Epsom Salts. This is good for relaxing muscles and drawing toxins from the body. When magnesium sulfate is absorbed through the skin, such as in a bath, it draws toxins from the body, sedates the nervous system, reduces swelling, relaxes muscles, is a natural emollient, exfoliator, and much more. Soak for 15-20 minutes.
Nutritional Advise
In many cases good nutrition can provide benefits for people who suffer from frequent fungal infections.
Yogurt: One of the greatest of all fungus-fighting foods in your fridge is yogurt that contains live acidophilus. The yogurt contains the active bacteria. Acidophilus helps control vaginal and oral yeast, but it may give other fungi a pretty good fight, too. And if nothing else, it tastes good and is good for you. Apply a little bit of plain yogurt daily to sooth itchy skin and fight the infection. Live yogurt cultures have wonderful anti-fungal properties.
Baking soda: Sprinkle baking soda directly into your shoes to absorb moisture.
Cornstarch: Rub cornstarch, which absorbs moisture, on your feet. Very lightly browned cornstarch is even better because any moisture content already contained in the cornstarch is removed, allowing for better absorption. To brown, sprinkle cornstarch on a pie plate and bake at 325 degrees for just a few minutes, until it looks brownish. Then dab some on your feet and toes.Crush 1 clove garlic and mix with a few drops of olive oil to make a paste. Apply to the nail and leave on for 15 to 30 minutes, then clean off in warm, soapy water. Dry feet thoroughly. Repeat daily. Because the fungus can return, you may wish to continue this treatment for several weeks after the fungus has disappeared, just to ward off another fungal visit.
Low immunity can make you more susceptible to a fungal infection, so include some of these immune-boosting foods in your diet: broccoli, green tea, ginger, onions and scallions, to name a few.
Cinnamon: A good soak in a cinnamon tea foot bath will help slow down the fungus. Boil 8 to 10 broken cinnamon sticks in 4 cups water, then simmer for five minutes. Let steep for another 45 minutes. Soak your feet for 15 to 30 minutes. Repeat daily, as needed.
Lemon: This remedy will help you in the sweaty foot-odor. Squeeze the juice from a lemon and mix it with 2 ounces water. Rinse your feet with the lemon water.
Tea: The tannic acid in tea is soothing, helps to dry the foot, and helps kill the fungus. Make a foot soak by putting 6 black tea bags in 1 quart warm water.
Water should be a very important part of any nutritional program. Distilled water is best. 6-8 8 ounces per day. Water allows for the cleansing and free flow in the system. Water helps cushion and lubricate your joints; it also helps flush uric acid out of your body before it can set off painful inflammation in your joints.
Add one or two cloves of raw garlic daily to your diet, as garlic is a potent anti-fungal agent.
Avoid sugar. Consider alternative, natural sweeteners such as stevia or agave.
Consider the Full Spectrum Diet, which includes: phytochemicals (5-7 servings of fruits and vegetables daily), 30 grams of fiber, flavinoids (found in red and purple grapes, red wine and black tea).
Make soups using plenty of onions, garlic, green leafy vegetables, ginger, burdock root and tumeric root.
People with chronic or recurring athlete’s foot should avoid excessive consumption of yeast products such as breads and other baked goods, as well as, alcohol. People with higher intake of yeast may be more prone to athlete’s foot.
Consider juice therapy. Blend these fruits and vegetables for amazing juice combinations. Treat athlete’s foot by blending together grapes, carrot, beet, and cucumber. Make these delicious remedy juices twice a day for 30 days. Consider this juice fast. Carrot juice, celery juice, cabbage juice, or tomato juice can be used. Fast on nothing but the vegetable juice for one day during the first week to get started. Follow that by alternate fasting for two days during the next week (i.e., Monday and Wednesday) and three days during the third week (Monday, Wednesday, and Friday).
The power of green whole foods is essential for all day energy, greater focus under stress, sense of well-being, strengthened immune system, fewer food cravings and optimum synergistic balance of essential nutrients for total health. Green whole foods contain antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, active enzymes, bioflavinoids, chlorophyll and other phytonutrients necessary for optimal cellular metabolism, repair and protection! These ingredients contain the most powerful combination of nutrients ever known in any grain, herb or food. They contain almost all of the vitamins, minerals, proteins and enzymes necessary for the human diet, plus chlorophyll.
Spirulina Blue Green Algae: Spirulina possesses a complete protein richer than steak, abundant organically complex minerals, a wide variety of essential vitamins, and many beneficial enzymes. Spirulina is more than just a food. As with Chlorella it has been shown to be valuable with almost every aspect of health. These necessities are bio-available which means that they are easily assimilated throughout the digestive tract, giving instant access to vital nutrients.Because of algae’s high chlorophyll and high nutritional content it is an excellent part of a cleansing program.
Chlorella Green Algae: Chlorella’s tough cell wall protects the valuable nucleus inside. When it is harvested it is instantly dried and the cell walls are gently cracked open. The nutrients inside retain full potency. Once in your body, the cracked open cells release their valuable nutrients. Because it is so easy to digest, your cells get the full benefit of this nutritional powerhouse. These necessities are bio-available which means that they are easily assimilated throughout the digestive tract, giving instant access to vital nutrients. The algae provides intestinal nourishment and has a soothing and healing effect on the mucous lining. It works to detoxify and purify our system.
Barley Grass and Wheat Grass: Eating barley and wheat grass is like eating a plate of green vegetables. These cereal grasses, are harvested young and are ecologically grown in nutrient rich soil. They are approximately 25% protein and contains all the essential amino acids, concentrated vitamins, minerals and fiber. They have been shown to increase our overall health by reducing intestinal putrefaction and maintaining healthy blood another important component of cleansing.
Klamath Lake Blue Green Algae: This remarkable plant grows 100% organically in the Upper Klamath Lake of Oregon. Blue Green Algae has more protein and chlorophyll by weight than any other plant or animal on earth. Klamath Lake algae is considered to be the most nutrient rich of the algaes.
Homeopathy
This medical system uses infinitesimal doses of natural substances to stimulate a person’s immune system and body’s natural defenses. Homeopathic remedies are named for the plant or animal ingredients they are made from. Homeopathy not only offers relief from temporary disorders but, can provide long term healing of a person due to its individual and “holistic” approach. This type of healing makes it easier and possible to avoid recurrence or relapses in the future and homeopathy stimulates the body’s natural defense system by reestablishing normal immune system and cell functioning.
Athlete’s Foot:
Alumina (Aluminum Oxide) for brittle nails, soles tender, feel soft and swollen. Itching and redness in the toes. Sensation of burning under the toes.
Anatherum Muricatum: (Cuscus Grass) for painful swelling of various parts. Diseased and deformed nails. Offensive foot-sweat. Abscesses, boils, ulcers.
Apis Mellifica: for feet swollen and stiff. Burning in the toes with redness. Suppressed perspiration of the feet. Boils and swellings with stinging pains.
Arsenicum Album: for itching, burning, swellings. Ulcers with offensive discharge. Swelling of the foot, burning, hard, and shining, with burning vesicles of a blue-blackish color on the instep. Corrosive and ulcerous vesicles on the soles of the feet and on the toes. Pains in the fleshy part of the toes. Shooting pain, hot itching, and violent burning in the skin.
Rhus Toxicodendron: (Poison Ivy) for red, swollen; itching intense. Burning eczematous eruptions with tendency to scale formation. Inflammatory swelling of instep, sometimes with pustules on part affected. Blistering, itching, rash, stinging, burning. Humidity of skin.
Sepia: (Inky Juice of Cuttlefish) for itching; not relieved by scratching. Sweat on feet, worse on toes; intolerable odor. Ulcers on instep. Pricking and burning sensation of feet. Profuse, or offensive perspiration of feet causing soreness between toes. Itching, stinging, burning ulcers on toes.
Silicea: (Silica-Pure Flint) for pain beneath toes. Sore soles. Soreness in feet from instep through to the sole. Offensive pus. Crippled nails. Profuse, offensive perspiration on feet, with blisters between the toes. Itching, suppurating scabs on toes. Offensive discharge. Itching. Unhealthy skin.
Sulphur: (Sublimated Sulphur) for burning in soles. Dry, scaly, itching, burning unhealthy skin. Sweating soles. Red, shining swelling of the toes. Skin dry, rough, scaly, with voluptuous itching. Unhealthy skin. Inflammation and ulceration. Ulcers with itching in the sore.
The Full Spectrum Diet
As a Nationally Certified Herbalist and Licensed practitioner of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac. has spent years developing a natural healthcare plan, which incorporates the benefits of fresh, full spectrum foods based on their color and their properties. A balance of attractive colors in the foods you eat, play an instinctual part as to what the body needs in the moment. The color energy of fruits, vegetables, vitamins and minerals all come into play when furnishing your body with the proper nourishment.
This easy to use system monitors healthy weight by the colors of food on your plate!
The Full Spectrum Diet is based on the proponents of color therapy and the holistic principles of eating mindfully, eating to nourish the body and seeing food in a more natural and spiritual way. Meals rich with different colored fruits, vegetables, meat, chicken, fish and whole grains means you are getting a healthy variety of nutrients that your body needs.
It is a simple way to eat healthy in order to achieve healthy results! Want to know more?
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is the oldest, continually practiced, and professionally administered health care system in the world. It is a documented medical system spanning over 2,500 years based on comprehensive philosophies, rational theories, clinically tested and empirically verified by over 100 generations of highly educated practitioners.
Chinese Medicine is a total system of internal medicine, which is comprised of a diagnostic procedure based on signs, symptoms and treatment styles including acupuncture, herbal medicine, exercise, diet and meditation. It’s foundation is based on the principles of balance; the interdependent relationship of Yin and Yang. Through this balance, health is achieved and maintained.
Traditional Chinese medicine considers athletes’ foot as wind, heat and/or damp patterns. The protocol is to clear heat and damp, and to bring yeast cells under control by decreasing the source that is encouraging them to grow, and strengthen the immune system to prevent their recurrence.
Wind Heat Pattern: Exposure to wind, especially when unprotected and exposed to the wind for a long periods of time can aggrevate/cause a pattern of athlete’s foot. Any Wind pattern is characterized by symptoms which move around in the body. Wind pattern for athlete’s foot include severe itching (burning pain after scratching); Urticaria; Weepy, pruriginous, red rash; Excoriation with bleeding; Worse due to Heat. The tongue picture is white or yellow coating (may be greasy) and the pulse is floating, forceful and/or rapid.
Damp Heat Pattern: A Damp heat pattern is a condition of dampness and heat combined with symptoms of thick yellow secretions and phlegm. The tongue picture has a white or yellow coating (may be greasy) and the pulse is slippery and rapid.
Damp Wind Pattern: This pattern is seen as causing the sudden movement of a conditions. Examples are a rash that is spreading, itching, with mycosis of hands and feet. Weepy, vesicular, red rash.
Furthermore, athlete’s foot can be differentiated into three additional patterns: blistering, erosive, and keratinized. All these three patterns have itching and smell.
Blistering is indicated by raised or fluid filled sacks. The erosive pattern is whitish with exudation, generally between the toes, and turns red after scratching. Keratinized generally is dry and characterized by peeling skin. These types may be present all at the same time or occur one after another.
Chinese Medicine Remedies
Three of my favorite, time-tested herbal remedies in the Chinese Materia Medica are called:
Damp Heat Soak. Soak your foot or apply the liquid with a wet compress for about 20 minutes. Let the feet dry. The ancient herbal formula for fungal infection is a combination of herbs used to dry dampness, clear heat and fight infection.
Then apply Drying Powder and dust between the toes with this herbal healing powder. This incredible, all natural powder is finely ground gypsum stone pulverized to micro-dust. It is an ancient Chinese remedy used for centuries to help dry dampness.
Twice a day, apply Fungal Cream, this non steroid all natural treatment is indicated for management of symptoms associated with tinea pedis fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, ringworm and jock-itch.
Visit Your TCM practitioner for a proper diagnosis and treatment.
Ayurveda
The principle medical system of India is known as Ayurveda and is over 5,000 years old. This “Science of Life” is considered the art of living in harmony with nature. Developed from the ancient text of The Vedas, Ayurveda views the human body as a “homunculus” of our cosmic Universe, regulated by the balance between three primordial humours, call Dosha.
Your dosha are your Ayurveda mind and body type. There are three doshas in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. We each have all three of the doshas in our physiology, just in different proportions, so your dosha is unique and personal; it is like your fingerprint.
An imbalance in Vata results in the accumulation of toxins and improper digestion.
An imbalance of Pitta affects the blood and liver, increasing for inflammation.
An imbalance of Kapha, creates a combination of accumulation of toxins, improper digestion, and inflammation.
Athlete’s foot is often related to the pitta and kapha constitutional doshas, which have a tendency to sweat. Tinea is often diagnosed as “Dadru.” These toxins lead to contamination of the deeper tissues and lead to the aggravation of the pitta-kapha dosha, called ringworm.
- Spicy and hot food, excessive sweet and sour foods should be avoided.
- Pickled foods, chutneys, citrus fruits like lemon and oranges, vinegar and mustard should also be avoided.
- Avoid foods made up of white flour such as bread, pastries, cakes, pizza
- Artificial and processed foods, fast foods, and carbonated drinks should be avoided.
- Excessive salt and tomatoes should be restricted.
- Foods which are sweet, blend and alkaline in nature should be added into the diet.
- Fresh vegetables and fruit should be enjoyed.
“Neem Clean”
Neem (Azadirachta indica), is a tree. The bark, leaves and seeds are used to make medicine. The stem, root bark, and fruit are used as a tonic and astringent. The leaves are ground to make tea or apply directly to the skin as a poultice for healing skin disorders. Grind 10-15 neem leaves (or buy the powdered version) and mix with a pinch of turmeric powder. Add enough milk, almond milk or warm water to make a paste and apply this to your athlete’s foot. Allow to dry, about 15-20 minutes, then, wash off. Repeat as required. Not a DIY, try our Organic Neem Powder.
Neem Oil RX
Neem oil is often used in Ayurvedic medicine and healing. This is because of its antiviral, anti-fungal, and antibacterial properties. The essential oil is used to treat numerous skin issues and infections similar to those treated with tea tree oil. You can make an athlete’s foot oil by combining 1 tablespoon of the neem oil with a half of a cup of a carrier oil. Use sweet almond oil or jojoba as a carrier oil. This is great for the skin. Sweet almond oil contains vitamin E, potassium, zinc and monounsaturated fatty acid which benefits the skin and hair.
Emotional Aspect:
There is an emotional aspect to every illness. Often times, it is the emotional thoughts or “excess emotions” that will lead to illness. The following therapies are utilized for calming the mind, help with stress relief and focuses on our mental powers over any situation. The ability to balance your emotional, mental, physical and spiritual self are exceptional tools on your healing journey. Here are some suggestions:
Our feet represent our connection with Mother Earth. They represent our understanding of life. What are you not understanding?
Our feet are the rooting/grounding connection to the emotional/physical body. What are you not connecting to?
Louise Hay, my metaphysical teacher, suggests that Inflammation indicated anger in the body. Anger will express itself no matter how hard we try to suppress it.
Toenails represent thoughts. Nail fungus can be a sign that one is uncomfortable with their thoughts or may be sabotaging themselves.
Pain in our feet point to guilt. Guilt always seeks punishment. Punishment creates pain. What are you feeling guilty about?
Color and Light Therapy
When you are balanced, you can more effectively fight dis-ease, rid your system of toxins, as well as, negative patterns. You can achieve balance through the vibrational remedy and application of color. Color interacts with the human energy system in a unique way to stabilize physical, emotional, mental and spiritual conditions.
One of the best natural remedies for athlete’s foot is exposing your feet to light and air as much as possible. Go barefoot at home if possible.
On warm, sunny days, take the laces out of your shoes, pull up their tongues, and set them in a sunny, well-ventilated place. The sunshine and circulating air will help dry out the shoes and kill fungus.
Violet: This energy has the most intense electro-chemical power. With this energy we have the gift and the possibilities that reach far beyond the physical plane. Violet is beneficial in the treatment of infection, nervous and emotional disturbances, acute cases of consumption, arthritis and insomnia.
Do a complete color make-over! Start with the lowest Chakra energy center and work up through the rainbow colors, from red at the bottom of the feet to violet at the top of the head! Start Here
Determine what color you need. Learn more about your personal Color Therapy Analysis.
Metaphysical Thoughts
The power of your mind and your belief system has everything to do with the condition, the speed and the way that you heal.
* Our Belief System is one of the major factors that can get us through situations or can cause our life to crumble around us! I do believe that there is a lot of innate goodness and balancing our minds do subconsciously to get us through hard times. The other portion of this is how we “program” ourselves to deal with any given situation.
* Our self-confidence and self-love are often the key to opening and strengthening this portion of our thoughts which in turn emanates from ourselves!
* Energy follows thought. Program thought to be positive and your energy will reflect it!
* Really appreciating what we DO have as opposed to what we would like to have, sometimes makes a significant difference. This is always an important element in healing that is often neglected.
Crystal Reference
Silica has widespread industrial applications including use as a food additive, anti-caking agent, and as an excipient in drugs and vitamins. Chemically, silica is an oxide of silicon, (silicon dioxide) and is generally colorless to white and insoluble in water. When associated with metals or minerals the family of silicates is formed. There are several water soluble forms of silica referred collectively to as silicic acid, Orthosilicic acid is the form predominantly absorbed by humans and found in numerous tissues, bone, tendons, aorta, liver and kidney. Compelling data suggest that silica is essential for health.
Selenite has been used in the healing arena for centuries. This “highly vibrational” mineral has been used by the cosmetic industry for many years. It can assist with wrinkles, age spots, acne, itchy dry skin, eczema, psoriasis, shingles and more. It helps maintain skin elasticity and helps release toxins from the skin. A form of selenite is gypsum. This incredible, all natural stone, when pulverized to microdust, can be applied to the skin, offering amazing healing properties. It is an ancient Chinese remedy used for centuries to help dry dampness. Apply this remedy twice daily as directed. Gypsum is a very soft mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate.
As a healing tool, crystals have been used for meditation, stress relief, massage and energy work. Crystals offer an additional way to balance energy, amplify both energy and thought, bring clarity in thinking, and harmony and alignment with our own energy systems.
Drying Powder
This incredible, all natural powder is finely ground gypsum stone pulverized to microdust. It is an ancient Chinese remedy used for centuries to help dry dampness. Apply this remedy twice daily as directed. Gypsum is a very soft mineral composed of calcium sulfate dihydrate.
Meditation & Crystals
Meditation won’t get rid of your athlete’s foot, BUT, it will alleviate much of the angst and anxiety associated with it! Calming the mind and central nervous system have a direct affect on how our body “vibrates” and how we choose to handle stress as it comes at us. The more you meditate, the more able you become in handling difficult situations!
~ Use a crystal of your choice or one mentioned. Sit comfortable on the floor and hold your stone or lie down and place the crystal on your Third Eye or Solar Plexus.
~ Close your eyes. Take several deep breaths. Feel the crystal rise and fall as you slowly inhale/exhale. Allow your body to melt into the floor at each breath. Take this time to find your center. Let go of those things which hold you back. With each inhale, take in that which you deserve. With each exhale, release all that tension.
~ When you feel more calm and connected, slowly open your eyes. Give yourself some time to recover. You may even want to journal about your experience.
Crystal Associations
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What are your experiences with athlete’s foot?
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