Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that can make your feet itch, burn, and even crack. It’s no fun to have to deal with!
Many people look for complementary ways to treat foot fungus, and one option that’s gaining popularity is the use of essential oils. Certain essential oils have antifungal properties, and when applied topically, they may help manage the symptoms of foot fungus.
This article will dive into the best antifungal essential oils for feet, how to use them safely, and what precautions you should take before trying them.
Understanding Athlete’s Foot and Fungal Infections
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that thrives in moist environments, like sweaty socks and shoes. Wearing tight shoes or spending time in public locker rooms can also increase your risk.
The infection causes some pretty unpleasant symptoms, like itching, burning, stinging, and cracked skin, especially between your toes. You might also develop blisters or scaly skin.
While there are conventional treatments available, some folks prefer natural remedies. This might be because they’re worried about side effects or because the fungus has become resistant to standard medications. If that sounds like you, keep reading to learn about antifungal essential oils for feet!
The best essential oils for foot fungus
Some essential oils have antifungal properties and may help with foot fungus. Remember to dilute them before use.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is well-known for its antifungal properties, and research suggests it may be effective against athlete’s foot.
A 2021 study showed that tea tree oil, when combined with the antifungal medication ketoconazole, increased antifungal activity. Always dilute tea tree oil properly before applying it to your skin.
Lavender oil
Lavender oil may also have antifungal properties, and it’s known for its calming and soothing effects on irritated skin. Lavender oil should always be diluted before you put it on your skin.
Peppermint oil
Peppermint oil also has antifungal activity. In 2021, a study tested peppermint oil on various fungi and found promising antifungal activity. Peppermint oil also provides a cooling and refreshing sensation.
If you have sensitive skin, be cautious when using peppermint oil, as it could cause irritation.
Other essential oils
Several other essential oils may also help with foot fungus:
- Lemon oil was evaluated for antifungal activity in a 2014 study.
- Lemongrass oil showed it could kill over 80% of Candida dubliniensis at 1.7 mg/ml concentrations in a 2012 study.
- Eucalyptus oil showed promise in a 2015 study for nail fungus.
- Geranium oil was evaluated for antimicrobial activity on bacteria and Candida albicans in a 2014 study.
How to use essential oils safely and effectively
Essential oils can be powerful, so it’s important to use them safely and effectively. Here are some tips to keep in mind.
Dilution and application
Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying them to your skin. Essential oils are highly concentrated. Using them undiluted can cause irritation or other side effects. It’s a good idea to dilute essential oils to 3% to 5% in a carrier oil or water.
Some good carrier oils are:
- coconut oil
- jojoba oil
- almond oil
Once you’ve diluted the essential oil, you can apply it to your feet in a number of ways:
- foot bath
- compress
- direct application
Patch testing
Before you use an essential oil all over your feet, it’s a good idea to do a patch test on a small area of skin. This will help you see if you have an allergic reaction to the oil.
To do a patch test, apply a small amount of diluted essential oil to a small area of skin, such as your inner arm. Wait 24 to 48 hours to see if you have any reaction, such as redness, itching, or swelling.
Frequency and duration
You can apply diluted essential oils to your feet two to three times a day. However, if your symptoms don’t improve or get worse, talk to your doctor.
Precautions, Side Effects, and When to Seek Medical Advice
Like any treatment, essential oils can cause side effects. Skin irritation and allergic reactions are possible, so watch for redness, itching, or swelling. If you have eczema, avoid tea tree oil, as it can make your symptoms worse.
Also, remember that essential oils are toxic if swallowed, so keep them away from kids and pets. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using essential oils.
When should you see a doctor? If your symptoms are severe, don’t improve after a few weeks of using essential oils, or if you notice signs of a secondary infection (like pus or increased pain), it’s time to seek medical advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put tea tree oil directly on athlete’s foot?
While tea tree oil is a popular choice for athlete’s foot, it’s generally recommended to dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil before applying it directly to the skin. This helps prevent potential irritation or sensitivity. A concentration of 25-50% tea tree oil is often recommended.
What kills a fungal infection naturally?
Several natural remedies have antifungal properties. Tea tree oil, oregano oil, garlic, and vinegar are commonly used. Good hygiene practices, like keeping your feet clean and dry, wearing breathable socks, and disinfecting shoes, and even using an antifungal soap, are also important for fighting fungal infections.
What not to do with foot fungus?
Avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes that trap moisture, walking barefoot in public places like gyms or swimming pools, and sharing towels or socks with others. Also, don’t ignore the infection; untreated foot fungus can spread and worsen.
What kills foot fungus in shoes?
Disinfecting shoes is crucial to prevent reinfection. You can use antifungal sprays, powders, or UV shoe sanitizers. Alternatively, you can wipe down the inside of your shoes with a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water) or antifungal essential oil blend. Allow shoes to dry completely before wearing them again.
What are the best essential oils for foot fungus?
Tea tree oil is a well-known antifungal essential oil. Other effective options include lavender, clove, oregano, eucalyptus, and peppermint oil. Blending several of these oils together in a carrier oil can create a potent antifungal treatment.
Summary
Essential oils may help with foot fungus, but it’s important to use them safely. Always dilute essential oils before applying them to your skin. You should also test a small area of skin to make sure you don’t have a reaction before using an essential oil on a larger area.
If you think you have a foot fungus, talk to your doctor to get a diagnosis and treatment plan. Essential oils can be a helpful add-on to your foot care routine, but they shouldn’t replace medical care or treatments like using an antifungal foot cream. Good foot hygiene and proper footwear are also important parts of keeping your feet healthy and fungus-free.