By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Athlete'S Foot
Herbal teas for athlete's foot are natural remedies that help alleviate symptoms of fungal infections on the feet.
They work by reducing inflammation, fighting fungal growth, and promoting a healthy environment for skin to heal. Examples of helpful herbal teas include tea tree oil, chamomile, and calendula.
Drinking these teas can improve lives by providing relief from itching, discomfort, and embarrassment associated with athlete's foot, allowing individuals to regain confidence and participate in daily activities with comfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for athlete's foot, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Aloe vera
- 2. Taraxacum officinale
- 3. Urtica dioica
- 4. Calendula officinalis
- 5. Melissa officinalis
- 6. Hypericum perforatum
- 7. Echinacea purpurea
- 8. Artemisia absinthium
- 9. Salvia officinalis
- 10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for athlete's foot?
- What ailments similar to athlete's foot are treated with herbal teas?
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, teas helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal properties, which combat the fungal infections causing the condition.
The anti-inflammatory properties in aloe vera soothe and calm the skin, reducing itching and discomfort associated with athlete's foot. The tea's antibacterial properties also help prevent bacterial overgrowth, which can exacerbate the condition. Drinking aloe vera tea can promote overall skin health and help alleviate the symptoms of athlete's foot.
Its natural compounds work to heal and protect the skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera teas that help with athlete's foot.
- Saponins: Saponins in Aloe vera have antifungal properties that can help combat fungal infections, such as those causing athlete's foot.
- Aliphatic alcohols and esters: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the symptoms and severity of athlete's foot.
- Vitamins and amino acids: These antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents can help soothe and protect the skin from further irritation and damage caused by the fungal infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make teas for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves are used due to their high gel content, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties to treat athlete's foot.
- Roots: Aloe vera roots are utilized for their antimicrobial properties, helping to combat fungal infections that cause athlete's foot.
- Seeds: Aloe vera seeds are used to create teas with anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to soothe and heal athlete's foot symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for athlete's foot.
- Harvest fresh aloe vera leaves and cut them into small pieces weighing about 20 grams for a standard serving.
- Rinse the aloe vera pieces with cool water to remove any dirt or debris and pat them dry.
- Combine the aloe vera pieces with 1 liter of boiling water in a saucepan and let it steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a separate container to remove solids.
- Store the herbal aloe vera tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before serving chilled or at room temperature.
2. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The plant's roots and leaves contain compounds that have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal cells, which cause the infection. The tea's active ingredients also help to reduce inflammation and soothe itchy skin, promoting a healthy environment for skin recovery.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat various skin conditions, making it a popular choice for those seeking a natural solution to athlete's foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with athlete's foot.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps with athlete's foot by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which can help alleviate symptoms such as itching and redness.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpenoid has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat fungal infections that cause athlete's foot.
- Kaempferol: This flavonoid has been shown to possess antifungal activity, which can help inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot, such as Trichophyton rubrum.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help soothe and calm the affected area.
- Roots: Contain inulin, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties to combat fungal infections that cause athlete's foot.
- Seeds: Contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties to help heal and prevent athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for athlete's foot.
- Harvest fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers in the early morning when dew is still present.
- Rinse 1-2 teaspoons of the harvested plant material with cold water to remove impurities and excess moisture.
- Steep the plant material in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release its active compounds.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup to remove the solids.
- Serve the herbal tea immediately and let it cool to a comfortable drinking temperature for consumption.
3. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, teas helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal properties.
The plant contains compounds that inhibit the growth of fungi, such as Trichophyton rubrum, which causes athlete's foot. The antifungal properties in Urtica dioica tea work to combat the fungal infection, reducing symptoms and promoting a healthy environment for the skin.
By drinking Urtica dioica tea, individuals can potentially alleviate the discomfort and embarrassment associated with athlete's foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica teas that help with athlete's foot.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a type of flavonoid, has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that can help reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections associated with athlete's foot.
- Alkanes and triterpenes: These terpenes have antimicrobial properties that can help inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria, reducing the risk of infection and promoting healing in the affected area.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, such as ferulic acid, have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that can help protect the skin from damage, reduce inflammation, and combat fungal infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make teas for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: The leaves of Urtica dioica are commonly used to make teas for athlete's foot because of their antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: The roots are used to make teas for athlete's foot due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help combat fungal infections.
- Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are used to make teas for athlete's foot, as they contain compounds that help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for athlete's foot.
- Gather 1-2 tablespoons of dried urtica dioica leaves or 3-4 tablespoons of fresh leaves for tea.
- Steep the dried leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes or simmer fresh leaves.
- Strain the tea mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any remaining plant material.
- Drink the tea immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Consume 1-2 cups of the herbal tea per day to reap its potential health benefits.
4. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with athlete's foot because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The plant's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot. Additionally, calendula's antifungal properties help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation associated with the condition.
Its natural antiseptic properties also promote a healthy environment for skin repair and healing, making it a popular natural remedy for athlete's foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with athlete's foot.
- Nashin: This flavonoid glycoside has been shown to have antifungal properties, which could help combat the fungal growth that causes athlete's foot. Its antifungal action may help reduce the severity of the infection.
- Calendulin: A triterpenoid saponin found in Calendula, calendulin has been demonstrated to exhibit antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which could help alleviate the symptoms of athlete's foot, such as itching and redness.
- Oleanolic acid: A triterpenoid compound found in Calendula, oleanolic acid has been reported to possess antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities, which could help combat fungal infections like athlete's foot while reducing inflammation and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for athlete's foot.
- Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help combat fungal infections.
- Leaves: They contain compounds that exhibit antifungal properties, making them effective in treating athlete's foot.
- Stems: While not as commonly used as flowers or leaves, stems may also contribute to the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects of Calendula officinalis tea.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for athlete's foot.
- Harvest dried calendula flowers from a reputable supplier or your own garden in quantities of 1-2 teaspoons per cup.
- Steep the calendula flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their medicinal properties.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a cup to remove the solids.
- Add honey or other sweeteners to taste as desired to enhance the flavor.
- Serve the calendula tea immediately and consume within 24 hours for optimal potency and freshness.
5. Melissa officinalis
Melissa officinalis, also known as lemon balm, teas helps with athlete's foot because of its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
The active compounds in Melissa officinalis, such as rosmarinic acid and eugenol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot. Regular consumption of Melissa officinalis teas may help to reduce the symptoms of athlete's foot, including itching, burning, and discomfort.
Additionally, Melissa officinalis teas may also promote a healthy skin environment, which can aid in the healing process.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melissa officinalis teas that help with athlete's foot.
- Limonene: A terpene found in Melissa officinalis, limonene has antifungal properties that help combat fungal infections such as athlete's foot, reducing the growth of pathogens that cause the condition.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound present in the tea, rosmarinic acid has potent antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help to eliminate the fungal and bacterial causes of athlete's foot, promoting a healthy skin environment.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid found in Melissa officinalis, apigenin has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help to reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections associated with athlete's foot, promoting healing and recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemon balm used to make teas for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: They are the primary part used to make teas due to their antifungal properties, which can help combat fungal infections.
- Stems: They contain essential oils that can be used to treat fungal infections, such as athlete's foot, due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties.
- Roots: They have been traditionally used to treat various skin conditions, including fungal infections, due to their antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemon balm for athlete's foot.
- Harvest 10-20 fresh melissa officinalis leaves from a healthy plant in the early morning when dew is still present.
- Clean the harvested leaves by rinsing them gently with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Steep 1-2 teaspoons of the clean melissa officinalis leaves in a cup of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea by pouring it through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the melissa leaves.
- Serve the herbal tea hot or iced depending on your preference and enjoy within 30 minutes of preparation.
6. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, teas helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot. Additionally, the tea's anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing discomfort and promoting healing.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat various skin conditions, making it a popular choice for managing athlete's foot symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum teas that help with athlete's foot.
- Naphthodianthrones: These compounds, specifically hyperforin and hypericin, exhibit antifungal properties that help combat the fungal infections causing athlete's foot.
- Phenolic acids: Flavonoids and phenolic acids present in Hypericum perforatum tea, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have been shown to possess antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects, aiding in the treatment of athlete's foot.
- Flavonoids: The flavonoids present in Hypericum perforatum tea, including rutin and hesperidin, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and calm irritated skin affected by athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make teas for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: They contain compounds with antifungal properties that help combat fungal infections such as athlete's foot.
- Roots: The roots contain hypericin and hyperforin, which have antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in treating athlete's foot.
- Flowers: The flowers have antimicrobial properties that help to reduce fungal growth and alleviate symptoms associated with athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for athlete's foot.
- Harvest 1-2 ounces of fresh or 2-4 ounces of dried hypericum perforatum flowers on a sunny day.
- Dry the flowers at 95-105°f for 1-2 hours to preserve their potency and flavor.
- Crush 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers or 2-3 teaspoons of fresh flowers in a mortar and pestle.
- Steep the crushed flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes to release their medicinal properties.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids after 10-15 minutes of preparation time.
7. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, teas helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal properties.
The plant's roots and flowers contain compounds that have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, including those that cause athlete's foot. These compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid derivatives, work to suppress fungal reproduction and reduce the severity of symptoms.
By drinking Echinacea purpurea tea, individuals may be able to reduce the appearance and discomfort of athlete's foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with athlete's foot.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, specifically echinacoside and echinulin, exhibit antifungal properties that can help combat fungal infections like athlete's foot by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids, including alkylamides and alkaloids, have been shown to exhibit antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections associated with athlete's foot.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, possess antifungal and antioxidant properties that can help protect against fungal infections and reduce oxidative stress, potentially alleviating symptoms of athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make teas for athlete's foot.
- Roots: They are used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which may help combat fungal infections.
- Leaves: They are used for their antifungal properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of athlete's foot.
- Flowers: They are used for their soothing and anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce itching and discomfort associated with athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for athlete's foot.
- Harvest 2-4 ounces of fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in the late morning or early afternoon.
- Rinse the harvested echinacea in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine 1-2 teaspoons of dried echinacea flowers with 8 ounces of boiling water in a glass teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 5-7 minutes or until the tea reaches a desired strength and flavor.
- Strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer into a cup and let it cool to a drinkable temperature.
8. Artemisia absinthium
Artemisia absinthium, also known as wormwood, teas helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The essential oils present in wormwood, such as thujone and camphor, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria that cause athlete's foot. Additionally, wormwood's astringent properties help to dry out the affected area, reducing moisture that can exacerbate the condition.
This makes wormwood tea a potential natural remedy for soothing and healing athlete's foot symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Artemisia absinthium teas that help with athlete's foot.
- Thujone: Thujone has antifungal properties, which can help combat the fungal infections that cause athlete's foot.
- Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate exhibits antifungal and antimicrobial activities, making it effective in preventing the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot.
- Absinthol: Absinthol has been shown to possess antifungal properties and can help inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot, making it a potential natural remedy.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wormwood used to make teas for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: Leaves of Artemisia absinthium contain compounds with antimicrobial properties, which can help combat fungal infections such as athlete's foot.
- Buds: The buds of the plant may contain oils with antifungal properties that can help alleviate symptoms of athlete's foot.
- Stems: The stems of Artemisia absinthium contain sesquiterpenes with potential antifungal and antibacterial activities, which can aid in treating athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wormwood for athlete's foot.
- Harvest 2-3 teaspoons of dried artemisia absinthium leaves and flowers from a clean source.
- Heat 250 milliliters of water in a saucepan over medium heat for 5 minutes.
- Steep the herb in the hot water for 5-10 minutes to release the active compounds.
- Strain the liquid into a cup using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the solids.
- Drink the tea immediately to experience the potential benefits of the herbal infusion.
9. Salvia officinalis
Salvia officinalis, also known as sage, teas helps with athlete's foot because of its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
The active compounds in sage, such as camphor, borneol, and thujone, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot, including Trichophyton and Epidermophyton species.
Drinking sage teas may also help to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy balance of skin flora, making it easier to treat and manage athlete's foot symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis teas that help with athlete's foot.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic compound has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, helping to combat the fungal infections that cause athlete's foot.
- Salvianolic acid: This water-soluble phenolic acid has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing in athlete's foot.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has antimicrobial properties, including antifungal activity, which can help to control the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make teas for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: Used to make teas due to their antimicrobial properties, which can help combat fungal infections.
- Barks: Used to make teas due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help soothe and protect affected skin.
- Roots: Used to make teas due to their antifungal properties, which can help combat fungal infections and promote healthy skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for athlete's foot.
- Harvest fresh or dried salvia officinalis leaves at the peak of their fragrance for optimal flavor.
- Dry the leaves thoroughly in a warm area away from direct sunlight for at least 7 days.
- Measure 1 teaspoon of dried salvia officinalis leaves or 2 teaspoons of fresh leaves for every 8 oz of water.
- Steep the leaves in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Strain the tea and serve immediately or let it cool down to room temperature for later consumption.
10. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The compounds found in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal cells responsible for athlete's foot. Additionally, licorice root has been found to reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin, promoting a healthy environment that is less conducive to fungal growth.
This makes licorice tea a popular natural remedy for treating and preventing athlete's foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with athlete's foot.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help combat athlete's foot by exhibiting antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungi responsible for the condition.
- Licodione: This compound helps reduce inflammation and irritation caused by athlete's foot, thereby providing relief to the affected skin.
- Liquiritin: Liquiritin has been shown to possess antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in treating athlete's foot symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for athlete's foot.
- Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties to help combat fungal infections.
- Roots: Also used for their antioxidant properties to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Roots: Some teas may use roots for their antimicrobial properties to prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for athlete's foot.
- Harvest 30-50 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots from a reputable source or cultivate them yourself.
- Rinse the dried roots with cold water to remove any impurities or debris thoroughly.
- Boil one teaspoon of the dried roots in 250 milliliters of water for 5-7 minutes to create a strong decoction.
- Strain the decoction through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the solids completely.
- Allow the tea to cool for 5 minutes before consuming it in moderation as needed.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for athlete's foot?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with athlete's foot is a blend of tea tree oil-infused peppermint, echinacea, and calendula.
Peppermint tea helps to soothe and cool the affected area, while echinacea's antifungal properties combat the underlying fungal infection. Calendula tea, rich in antiseptic and anti-inflammatory compounds, accelerates the healing process and reduces discomfort.
Drinking 2-3 cups of this combination daily can help alleviate the symptoms of athlete's foot, promoting a healthy and fungal-free foot.
What ailments similar to athlete's foot are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to athlete's foot that are treated with herbal teas are fungal infections such as jock itch and ringworm.
Herbs like tea tree, chamomile, and lavender have antifungal properties that help soothe and heal these conditions.
The tea can be applied topically or consumed orally to alleviate symptoms of itching, burning, and redness.