10 Best Herbal Teas For Cracked Heels

Herbal teas can be a natural and soothing remedy for cracked heels, offering gentle hydration and nourishment to the affected skin.

Ingredients like calendula, chamomile, and lavender are commonly used in herbal teas due to their anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties. To use, simply steep the herbs in hot water and let the tea cool before applying it to the heels with a clean cloth. Regular application can help soften the skin, reduce pain, and promote healing.

While herbal teas are generally safe, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional if the cracks are severe or show signs of infection.

1. Marigold (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, is a popular herb used in herbal teas to promote skin health and healing.

Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it particularly beneficial for treating cracked heels, which often become painful and prone to infection. When brewed into a soothing tea, calendula can be applied topically to the affected area to reduce redness, irritation, and promote tissue regeneration. Many people find that regular use of calendula-infused creams or lotions helps soften and heal dry, cracked skin more effectively than traditional moisturizers alone.

For best results, calendula tea can be combined with other soothing ingredients like chamomile or honey to enhance its healing benefits.

2. Aloe barbadensis

Aloe barbadensis, commonly known as aloe vera, is often used in herbal teas for its soothing and healing properties, which can be beneficial for cracked heels.

The gel extracted from the aloe plant contains enzymes, vitamins, and minerals that help moisturize and repair dry, cracked skin. When brewed into a tea, aloe vera can provide internal hydration that supports skin health from within. However, it is important to note that while aloe vera tea may contribute to overall skin wellness, it is not a direct treatment for cracked heels and should be used in conjunction with topical remedies.

For best results, combining aloe vera tea with moisturizing lotions or creams can enhance the healing process of dry, cracked skin.

3. St. john's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, is a herbal plant often used in teas for its potential therapeutic properties.

While traditionally used for mood support and skin healing, hypericum perforatum herbal tea may offer some benefits for cracked heels due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. The tea can help soothe irritation and promote skin regeneration when applied topically or consumed internally. However, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before using it, especially if you are on medications, as it can interact with certain drugs.

Overall, while it may complement a holistic approach to treating cracked heels, it should not replace professional medical advice or treatment.

4. Dog rose (Rosa canina)

Rosa canina, also known as rosehip, is a herbal remedy commonly used in teas to promote skin health, including the treatment of cracked heels.

This herbal tea is rich in essential oils, vitamins, and antioxidants, which help to nourish and moisturize dry, cracked skin. The anti-inflammatory properties of rosehip tea can reduce redness and irritation associated with cracked heels, while its high vitamin C content supports collagen production for skin repair. Regular use of rosa canina herbal tea as a foot soak or topical application can enhance skin elasticity and prevent further damage.

It is a natural and soothing alternative to commercial treatments, offering gentle yet effective relief for those suffering from dry, cracked heels.

5. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a herb that has been traditionally used for its soothing and healing properties.

When prepared as a herbal tea, it can help alleviate the discomfort associated with cracked heels by promoting skin hydration and reducing inflammation. The tea is believed to contain compounds that support skin regeneration and improve the overall texture of the skin. To use it for cracked heels, you can apply the cooled tea directly to the affected area or use it as a compress.

While it is generally considered safe, it is advisable to perform a patch test before regular use to ensure there is no adverse reaction.

6. Field horsetail (Equisetum arvense)

Equisetum arvense, commonly known as field horsetail, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for its high silica content, which can help strengthen and repair damaged skin.

When used in herbal teas, it may support the healing of cracked heels by promoting skin elasticity and reducing inflammation. To prepare the tea, steep a teaspoon of dried horsetail in hot water for several minutes, then apply it to the affected area. However, it is important to note that while some people find relief with this remedy, it should not replace medical treatment for severe cases of cracked heels.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant.

7. Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)

Cnicus benedictus, also known as blessed thorn, is a herbal plant traditionally used in folk medicine for its potential skin-healing properties.

When brewed into a tea, it is believed to support the repair of cracked heels by promoting skin hydration and reducing inflammation. The tea may help soften dry, rough skin and improve the overall condition of the feet. While scientific research on its efficacy for cracked heels is limited, many users report positive results from regular use.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating Cnicus benedictus tea into a skincare routine.

8. Sutherlandia frutescens

Sutherlandia frutescens, also known as the "cancer bush," is a South African plant that has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential healing properties.

While it is primarily known for its role in cancer support, some people use Sutherlandia frutescens herbal teas for cracked heels due to its purported anti-inflammatory and skin-soothing effects. The tea is believed to promote skin regeneration and improve overall skin health, which may help in the healing process of dry, cracked heels. However, there is limited scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for this specific use, and it should not replace conventional treatments for severe skin conditions.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using Sutherlandia frutescens for cracked heels.

9. Tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa)

Paeonia suffruticosa, commonly known as the tree peony, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its soothing and healing properties.

When brewed into a herbal tea, it may help alleviate the discomfort of cracked heels by promoting skin hydration and reducing inflammation. The active compounds in paeonia suffruticosa, such as flavonoids and alkaloids, are believed to support skin regeneration and enhance moisture retention. To use it for cracked heels, the tea can be applied topically after cooling, or consumed internally to support overall skin health.

While it may offer natural relief, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using it as a treatment for persistent or severe heel cracks.

10. Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is a herbal remedy often used in teas to support liver health, but it can also be beneficial for skin conditions like cracked heels.

The tea contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help soothe and repair damaged skin. When applied topically, it can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected areas. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it for medical conditions.

While it may offer some relief, it should not replace conventional treatments for severe or persistent cracked heels.