By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 04, 2024
10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Athlete'S Foot
Herbal decoctions for athlete's foot are a natural remedy made by steeping herbs in hot water, creating a liquid extract that can be used to soothe and treat fungal infections like athlete's foot.
These decoctions help alleviate itching, burning, and inflammation associated with the condition, providing relief from discomfort and improving quality of life. For example, tea tree oil decoction has antifungal properties that combat Candida albicans, while aloe vera decoction moisturizes and calms affected skin.
By using herbal decoctions, individuals can enjoy instant relief and reduce the need for harsh chemicals or antibiotics, allowing them to resume daily activities with confidence and comfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for athlete's foot, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 2. Echinacea angustifolia
- 3. Allium sativum
- 4. Lavandula angustifolia
- 5. Calendula officinalis
- 6. Origanum vulgare
- 7. Curcuma longa
- 8. Zingiber officinale
- 9. Cymbopogon citratus
- 10. Monarda didyma
- What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for athlete's foot?
- What ailments similar to athlete's foot are treated with herbal decoctions?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea tree decoctions helps with athlete's foot because it contains terpenes, particularly melaleuca alternifolia, which have potent antifungal properties.
When applied topically as a soak or compress, these decoctions can help to reduce inflammation and combat the fungal infection that causes athlete's foot.
The antimicrobial compounds in tea tree decoctions also work to break down and eliminate the fungus, promoting healthy skin and reducing symptoms such as itching, redness, and scaling.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia decoctions that help with athlete's foot.
- Cineole: This terpene has antifungal properties that help reduce the growth of fungi causing athlete's foot.
- Linalool: This terpene exhibits antifungal and antibacterial activities, contributing to the reduction of fungal and bacterial infections associated with athlete's foot.
- Carvacrol: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help combat the fungal infections and inflammation associated with athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make decoctions for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: They are used to make tea tree oil, which contains antifungal properties beneficial in treating athlete's foot.
- Barks: The bark of Melaleuca alternifolia is sometimes used to make decoctions for various purposes, including skin infections.
- Flowers: Like the leaves and bark, the flowers of Melaleuca alternifolia are also used to make decoctions for their antifungal properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for athlete's foot.
- Collect 20-30g of fresh melaleuca alternifolia leaves and stems from a trusted source.
- Chop the leaves and stems into smaller pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 250ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes allowing the plant's active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
2. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower decoctions helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The decoction's active compounds, such as echinacin and alkamides, penetrate deep into the skin to combat fungal infections that cause itching, burning, and cracking. Additionally, Kansas coneflower has a soothing effect on irritated skin, reducing redness and swelling associated with athlete's foot.
As a natural remedy, it provides an effective alternative to over-the-counter treatments, promoting healthy skin and eliminating the underlying infection.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions that help with athlete's foot.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds exhibit antimicrobial properties, which can help combat fungal infections that cause athlete's foot.
- Polyphenols: The polyphenol content in Echinacea angustifolia decoctions may help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, which can aid in the recovery from athlete's foot.
- Alkalamines: These compounds have been shown to possess antimicrobial and antifungal activities, which can help control the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make decoctions for athlete's foot.
- Roots: The roots are commonly used due to their high concentration of compounds with potential antifungal properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their ability to inhibit the growth of fungi, which may help alleviate symptoms of athlete's foot.
- Barks: The barks are utilized for their antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making them effective in treating fungal infections like athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for athlete's foot.
- Harvest echinacea angustifolia roots in late summer or early fall when the roots are mature and the plant is dormant.
- Clean and dry the roots in a low-temperature oven at 100°f for 2 hours to remove any moisture.
- Chop the dried roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or a root cutter to increase their surface area.
- Combine 2 grams of chopped echinacea angustifolia roots with 500 ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes then strain and discard the solids to create the decoction.
3. Allium sativum
Garlic decoctions helps with athlete's foot because of its potent antifungal properties, which effectively combat the fungal infections that cause this common condition.
The decoction's active compounds, such as allicin and diallyl disulfide, work to break down the fungal cell walls, inhibiting their growth and preventing them from spreading.
Additionally, garlic's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness, itching, and swelling associated with athlete's foot, promoting faster healing and relief from discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Allium sativum decoctions that help with athlete's foot.
- Allicin: Allicin is a sulfur-containing compound that has antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot.
- Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid that has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and itching associated with athlete's foot.
- Diallyl trisulfide: Diallyl trisulfide is a sulfur compound that has antimicrobial properties, helping to combat the fungal and bacterial infections that contribute to the development of athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of garlic used to make decoctions for athlete's foot.
- Roots: The roots contain sulfur compounds that have antifungal properties, helping to combat fungal infections such as athlete's foot.
- Rhyzomes: The rhizomes of Allium sativum contain compounds that have been shown to have antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, making them effective against athlete's foot.
- Leaves: The leaves of Allium sativum contain sulfur compounds and other nutrients that can help to soothe and dry out fungal infections, such as athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic garlic for athlete's foot.
- Gather 5-10 grams of fresh or dried allium sativum roots and wash them thoroughly under cold running water.
- Chop the cleaned allium sativum roots into small pieces and soak them in 500 milliliters of water for 30 minutes.
- Bring the water to a boil and then reduce heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the roots to infuse.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container to remove the solids.
- Store the herbal allium sativum decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and consume 20-30 milliliters as needed.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender decoctions helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal properties, which can effectively combat fungal infections that cause this common condition.
The decoction's antibacterial properties also help to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy environment for the skin to heal.
Additionally, English lavender has natural antiseptic properties that soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing itching and discomfort associated with athlete's foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia decoctions that help with athlete's foot.
- Linalool: This terpene has antifungal properties, which help to inhibit the growth of fungi causing athlete's foot, such as Trichophyton and Epidermophyton species.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene also has antifungal properties, and its combination with linalool contributes to the overall antifungal effect of Lavandula angustifolia decoctions.
- Caffeic acid: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent the spread of athlete's foot infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make decoctions for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: Used for their antifungal properties to combat fungal infections causing athlete's foot.
- Flowers: Utilized for their antiseptic and antifungal properties to help soothe and heal athlete's foot.
- Roots: Employed for their antimicrobial properties to fight fungal infections and reduce inflammation associated with athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for athlete's foot.
- Harvest 25 grams of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and clean them thoroughly to remove any debris.
- Combine the cleaned lavandula flowers with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
- Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse into the water.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to separate the solids from the liquid.
- Store the prepared decoction in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
5. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold decoctions helps with athlete's foot because it possesses antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties.
The decoction's active compounds, such as calendine and isoquercetin, work together to combat the fungal infection causing athlete's foot. By reducing inflammation and killing the fungus, pot marigold decoctions provide relief from itching, burning, and scaling associated with the condition.
Additionally, the antimicrobial properties help to prevent further infection and promote healing, ultimately promoting a faster recovery from athlete's foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis decoctions that help with athlete's foot.
- Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antifungal properties, helping to combat the fungal infections that cause athlete's foot.
- Flavonoids: Specifically, flavonoids like kaempferol and quercetin, have been found to possess antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing inflammation and preventing the spread of infection.
- Beta-sitosterol: This triterpenoid has been demonstrated to have antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help soothe and heal the skin affected by athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make decoctions for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: Leaves are used for their antifungal and antibacterial properties to help combat fungal infections.
- Flowers: Flowers are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to soothe and protect the affected skin.
- Seeds: Seeds are used for their antifungal properties to help combat fungal infections and promote skin healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for athlete's foot.
- Harvest the calendula flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated for maximum potency.
- Dry the flowers in a warm place for 1 to 2 weeks or in a dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit.
- Combine 1 teaspoon of dried calendula flowers with 1 cup of boiling water to create a decoction.
- Steep the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes then strain the liquid using a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve.
- Store the decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and consume 1/4 cup as needed.
6. Origanum vulgare
Wild marjoram decoctions helps with athlete's foot because of its potent antifungal properties, which effectively combat the fungal infections that cause this common condition.
The decoction's antiseptic and anti-inflammatory agents also help to soothe itching and irritation, reducing discomfort and promoting a healthy healing process.
Additionally, wild marjoram's ability to stimulate blood circulation can aid in the removal of toxins and promote overall skin health, further supporting its effectiveness in treating athlete's foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Origanum vulgare decoctions that help with athlete's foot.
- Carvacrol: A phenolic monoterpene, carvacrol has antifungal properties that help combat the fungal infections causing athlete's foot by inhibiting the growth of pathogens.
- Thymol: A phenolic monoterpene, thymol exhibits antifungal activity that aids in treating athlete's foot by disrupting the fungal cell membrane and preventing the spread of infection.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic acid, rosmarinic acid has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to its effectiveness in treating athlete's foot by reducing inflammation and preventing fungal growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make decoctions for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: The leaves of Origanum vulgare are commonly used to make decoctions for athlete's foot due to their antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
- Roots: The roots of the plant contain compounds that help combat fungal infections, making them useful for treating athlete's foot.
- Leaves: The leaves also contain essential oils that have antifungal properties, which help to soothe and treat athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for athlete's foot.
- Gather 1/4 cup of origanum vulgare leaves and flowers and clean them thoroughly to remove any debris.
- Combine the prepared origanum vulgare with 2 cups of cold water in a saucepan and bring it to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer for 10-15 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids completely.
- Store the resulting herbal decoction in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before consumption.
7. Curcuma longa
Turmeric decoctions helps with athlete's foot because of its potent anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The curcuminoids present in turmeric have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot, reducing symptoms such as itching, redness, and scaling. Additionally, turmeric's anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with fungal infections, promoting a faster healing process.
As a natural and gentle treatment option, turmeric decoctions offer a non-pharmaceutical approach to addressing this common skin condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa decoctions that help with athlete's foot.
- Curcumin: Curcumin has potent antifungal properties that help combat the fungi causing athlete's foot, thereby reducing symptoms and promoting healing.
- Demethoxycurcumin: DMC exhibits antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities, which help alleviate the discomfort and itching associated with athlete's foot.
- Α-turmerone: α-Turmerone has been shown to possess antifungal properties, which contribute to the overall efficacy of Curcuma longa decoctions in treating athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make decoctions for athlete's foot.
- Rhyzomes: They contain compounds like turmeric oil, which has antifungal properties that help combat athlete's foot.
- Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa contain curcumin, a powerful compound that has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, which help alleviate athlete's foot symptoms.
- Barks: The barks of Curcuma longa have been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various skin conditions, including athlete's foot, due to their antiseptic and antifungal properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for athlete's foot.
- Measure out 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried turmeric root powder and place it in a saucepan.
- Add 1 quart of water to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Reduce the heat to a simmer and allow the mixture to steep for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.
- Discard the solids and let the decoction cool to room temperature before refrigerating it.
8. Zingiber officinale
Ginger decoctions helps with athlete's foot because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The decoction's active compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, penetrate deep into the skin, reducing inflammation and alleviating itching and burning sensations associated with the condition. Additionally, the decoction's antibacterial properties help combat fungal infections that cause athlete's foot, promoting a healthy environment for the skin to heal.
This natural remedy offers a gentle and effective solution for managing symptoms and promoting recovery from this common skin condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with athlete's foot.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, a class of phenolic compounds found in ginger, have shown antimicrobial properties, which can help combat fungal infections such as athlete's foot by inhibiting the growth of pathogens.
- Shogaols: Shogaols, another type of phenolic compound present in ginger, have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent the spread of fungal infections in the affected area.
- Zingerone: Zingerone, a ginger-derived compound, has been found to possess antimicrobial properties, which can aid in the treatment of athlete's foot by inhibiting the growth of microorganisms and promoting a healthy skin environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for athlete's foot.
- Roots: The roots of Zingiber officinale contain bioactive compounds that exhibit antifungal and antibacterial activities, making them effective against athlete's foot.
- Buds: Ginger buds are rich in antioxidants and have antimicrobial properties, which help in soothing and treating the affected areas of athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for athlete's foot.
- Choose fresh or dried zingiber officinale rhizomes with minimal mold or damage to ensure quality.
- Measure out 3-6 grams of the chosen zingiber officinale rhizomes for a standard decoction.
- Boil 500 milliliters of water in a saucepan over high heat for 5-7 minutes.
- Add the measured zingiber officinale rhizomes to the boiling water and reduce heat to a simmer.
- Strain the decoction after 10-15 minutes and discard the solids to obtain the liquid extract.
9. Cymbopogon citratus
Lemongrass decoctions helps with athlete's foot because of its potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
The essential oils present in lemongrass, such as citral and geraniol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot, including Trichophyton and Epidermophyton species. Additionally, lemongrass decoctions have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce itching, redness, and swelling associated with the condition.
By incorporating lemongrass into a regular foot soak or bath routine, individuals can promote healing, prevent infection, and alleviate symptoms of athlete's foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus decoctions that help with athlete's foot.
- Citronelemene: This terpene has antifungal properties, helping to combat fungal infections that cause athlete's foot.
- Cymenene: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the growth of fungal and bacterial pathogens that contribute to athlete's foot.
- Limonene: This terpene has antiseptic and antifungal properties, aiding in the reduction of fungal infections and promoting a healthy environment for skin to recover from athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make decoctions for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: The essential oils extracted from the leaves of Cymbopogon citratus have antifungal properties, which help combat fungal infections causing athlete's foot.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes of Cymbopogon citratus contain compounds with antifungal and antimicrobial properties, making them effective against the fungal growth causing athlete's foot.
- Stems: The stems of Cymbopogon citratus are also a source of essential oils with antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which help in treating athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for athlete's foot.
- Harvest 10-15 fresh cymbopogon citratus leaves with fragrant oil glands and no signs of wilting or damage.
- Rinse the harvested cymbopogon citratus leaves under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of the cymbopogon citratus leaves with 1 liter of boiling water in a heat-resistant glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 10-15 minutes and then strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine mesh sieve.
- Store the prepared cymbopogon citratus decoction in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
10. Monarda didyma
Bee balm decoctions helps with athlete's foot because of its potent antifungal properties.
The herb contains compounds like thymol, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot, such as Trichophyton and Epidermophyton. When applied topically as a decoction, bee balm can help soothe itchy skin, reduce inflammation, and promote healthy skin renewal.
Additionally, its antimicrobial properties may also help prevent bacterial infections, making it an effective natural remedy for managing athlete's foot symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Monarda didyma decoctions that help with athlete's foot.
- Limonene: A terpene that has antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and antifungal properties, which may help reduce inflammation and prevent fungal overgrowth on the skin.
- Caffeic acid: A phenolic compound with antimicrobial properties, which may help prevent the spread of fungal infections and promote a healthy skin environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bee balm used to make decoctions for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: They are rich in antimicrobial properties, which help combat fungal infections causing athlete's foot.
- Flowers: They possess anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, making them effective in soothing and treating athlete's foot.
- Roots: They contain compounds that exhibit antifungal and antibacterial activities, helping to control the growth of fungi and bacteria associated with athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bee balm for athlete's foot.
- Gather 1-2 cups of fresh monarda didyma leaves and flowers and clean them thoroughly with water.
- Combine 1 cup of fresh monarda didyma leaves and flowers with 4 cups of boiling water in a pot.
- Steep the monarda didyma mixture for 5-7 minutes allowing the herbal properties to infuse.
- Strain the monarda didyma decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl.
- Store the monarda didyma decoction in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before consumption.
What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for athlete's foot?
The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with athlete's foot is a blend of tea tree oil, aloe vera, and thyme.
Tea tree oil's antifungal properties combat fungal growth, while aloe vera soothes and calms irritated skin. Thyme's antibacterial and antifungal properties further enhance the treatment.
A decoction made by simmering equal parts of thyme and aloe vera in water, then adding a few drops of tea tree oil, can be applied topically to the affected area 2-3 times a day for optimal results.
What ailments similar to athlete's foot are treated with herbal decoctions?
Ailments similar to athlete's foot that are treated with herbal decoctions are fungal infections such as ringworm, jock itch, and nail fungus.
Decoctions made from herbs like tea tree oil, calendula, and lavender have antifungal properties that help alleviate symptoms like itching, redness, and scaling.
Other ailments that may be treated with herbal decoctions include eczema, dermatitis, and wounds, as they promote wound healing and soothe irritated skin.