- Herbs -

Herbs

Black walnut is a great antiseptic. Take 10 to 30 drops of tincture per daily. You can also make a poultice and apply it directly on the affected area.

Echinacea will enhance the effectiveness of other remedies. Take 20 to 30 drops of tincture twice daily. If supplementing, take one or two capsules daily. Do not use echinacea for more than two weeks at a time.

Garlic is a powerful anti-fungal agent. One source recommends placing several crushed fresh cloves into a basin of warm water and use it as a foot bath. Of course, this treatment will have a strong odour.

Ginger contains many anti-fungal compounds. Place one ounce of chopped, fresh ginger root in one cup boiling water and simmer for 20 minutes. Apply the decoction to the affected area twice daily.

Lemongrass is useful against fungal infections. Prepare an infusion and drink 4 times daily. You may also remove the tea bag from the infusion and place directly on the infected area.

Licorice root has a large number of anti-fungal compounds. Add chopped sticks to a foot bath. You can also add 5 to 7 teaspoons of dried herb to one cup water, boil, simmer for 20 minutes, cool, and apply to affected area.

Oregano oil has anti-fungal properties. One source suggests mixing three to five drops of the oil with 5mL extra virgin olive oil to make it more palatable. Place two or three drops of this mixture under the tongue several times a day. You can also mix seven to ten drops with 90mL of sweet almond oil and add to the bath.

Pau d'arco has excellent anti-fungal properties. Take 1,500mg three times daily. You may also use the tea as a foot soak. Bring three teaspoons of herb and four and a half cups water to a boil. Simmer for 45 minutes, cool, and strain. Soak 1 to 2 times daily.

Oil of turmeric has been shown to inhibit the growth of several funguses. Mix one part oil with two parts water and apply directly to the affected area.

- Lifestyle -

Lifestyle

Hygiene is essential. The foot should be washed with mild soap and water and patted dry everyday, especially between the toes. Do not overdo it, however. Being too aggressive can aggravate the situation. When drying off after a shower or bath, dry your feet last so as to not spread the infection to other parts of your body. You should also be using your own washcloths and towels to prevent the spread of infection to other members of the household.

Wear rubber or wooden sandals when walking over surfaces traveled by other members of the household or the public (locker rooms, etc.). Light cotton socks should be worn to allow for ventilation rather than those made of wool or synthetic fibres. Occlusive footwear should not be worn for long periods of time, especially canvas, leather, or rubber-soled athletic shoes.

Alternate often worn shoes to allow the insides to dry completely. In addition, try to air out your foot as much as possible to prevent moisture build up.

- Miscellaneous -

Miscellaneous

Tea tree oil is a powerful antiseptic. Mix one part oil with an equal amount of carrier oil and apply to the affected area three times daily.

- Vitamins -

Vitamins

Biotin assists cell growth and promotes healthy skin. Take 100 to 300mcg daily.

Vitamin A helps heal skin tissue. Take 5,000 to 10,000 IU daily for adults.

Vitamin B₂ also promotes healthy skin. Take 50 to 100mg daily.