Athlete's Foot
Description
Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a chronic fungal infection, usually between the toes of the foot.
The outer layer of skin can be totally destroyed, especially if the sufferer scratches the areas.
Causes
The fungus appears to thrive in dark, moist conditions. Hence, athletic shoes and socks, may shoulder part of the burden.
Otherwise, personal hygiene may be to blame: clean, dry feet in clean, dry socks and shoes will usually prevent frequent outbreaks.
Powdering feet and socks can also help. During an outbreak, medicated powders are often effective, as are topical ointments and gels.
Signs & Symptoms
The webbing between the toes, especially of the smaller toes, which tend to have less inter-digital space, will often become irritated (inflamed, itchy) before an infection becomes visible.
The infection will generally appear to be a white fungal growth, including the outer layer of skin, if it develops fully. There will also a distinctive odor.
Nutritional Supplements
Structure & Function:
Antioxidants
Immune System Support &
Hair, Skin and Nail Support
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General Supplements
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| Acidophilus | 1 tspn |
| Colloidal Silver (Topical)* | |
| Vitamin B Complex* | |
| Vitamin C | 3,000 - 10,000 mg |
| Vitamin E | 1,000 IU |
| Zinc | 50 mg |
*Please refer to the respective topic for specific nutrient amounts.
Note:
All amounts are in addition to those supplements having a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). Due to individual needs, one must always be aware of a possible undetermined effect when taking nutritional supplements. If any disturbances from the use of a particular supplement should occur, stop its use immediately and seek the care of a qualified health care professional.
Dietary Considerations
The anti-Candida diet could be beneficial. At the simplest level, this could incorporate acidophilus foods (e.g. yogurt) but exclude fungus foods (e.g. cheese, mushrooms, wine etc.).
Homeopathic Remedy
Psorinum
Sulphur
Treatment Schedule
Over-the-counter homeopathic remedies may be single strength (of fairly weak potency e.g. 6X ) or a blend of several weaker strengths (6X, 8X, 10X).
This may comprise a single remedy, or several remedies.
Doses are administered on a 3 times daily (tid), between meals,schedule and continued for 3 days.
Liquid preparations usually use 8-10 drops per dose.
Solid preparations are usually 2 or 3 pellets per dose.
Children use 1/2 dose i.e. 1 pellet.
If there is aggravation of the symptoms, stop taking the remedy and consult a homeopath.
References
Murphy, R. : Homeopathic Medical Repertory. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1993.
Murphy, R. : Lotus Materia Medica. Hahneman Academy, Pagosa Springs, Colorado. 1995.
Pert, J.C.: Homeopathy for the Family. The Homoeopathic Development Foundation, London. 1985 edition.
Herbal Approaches
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Herbs
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Apple Cider Vinegar (footbath)
Pau d'Arco (tea)
Tea Tree Oil (footbath)
Note: The misdirected use of an herb can produce severely adverse effects, especially in combination with prescription drugs. This Herbal information is for educational purposes and is not intended as a replacement for medical advice.
Aromatherapy - Essential Oils
| Lemongrass Essence | Tea Tree Essence |
Related Health Conditions
AbstractsReferences
Brooks KE & Bender JF: Tinea pedis: diagnosis and treatment. Clin Podiatr Med Surg, 1996 Jan, 13:1, 31-46.
Drake LA et al: Guidelines of care for superficial mycotic infections of the skin: tinea corporis, tinea cruris, tinea faciei, tinea manuum, and tinea pedis. Guidelines/Outcomes Committee. American Academy of Dermatology. J Am Acad Dermatol Vol. 34 no. 2 Pt 1 pp. 282-6.
Kemna ME & Elewski BE: A U.S. epidemiologic survey of superficial fungal diseases. J Am Acad Dermatol, 1996 Oct, 35:4, 539-42.
King MJ: Dermatologic problems in podiatric sports medicine. Clin Podiatr Med Surg, 1997 Jul, 14:3, 511-24.
Murray, M.T. & Pizzorno, J.E.: An Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. Prima Pbng, Rocklin, CA.
Noguchi H et al: Tinea pedis survey in members of the Japanese Self-Defense Forces undergoing Ranger training. Mycoses Vol. 37 no. 11-12 pp. 461-7.
Ramadan W et al., Oil of bitter orange: new topical antifungal agent. Int J Dermatol, 1996 Jun, 35:6, 448-9.
Werbach, M. R.: Nutritional Influences on Illness: A sourcebook of clinical research. Keats Pbng. New Canaan, CT.
Werbach, M. R.: Nutritional Influences on Illness: A sourcebook of clinical research. Third Line Press, Tarzana, CA. Second Edition.
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