By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Athlete'S Foot
Herbal tinctures for athlete's foot are a natural remedy that utilizes concentrated plant extracts to treat fungal infections, such as athlete's foot.
These tinctures work by penetrating deep into the skin and addressing the root cause of the infection, rather than just masking symptoms like traditional topical creams. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with athlete's foot include tea tree oil, oregano, and garlic, which have antifungal and antibacterial properties that can soothe itching and burning sensations, promote healing, and prevent future infections.
By using these tinctures, individuals can say goodbye to the discomfort and embarrassment of athlete's foot, enjoying improved comfort and confidence in their daily lives.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures 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 tinctures to use for athlete's foot?
- What ailments similar to athlete's foot are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea tree tinctures helps with athlete's foot because of its powerful antifungal properties.
The oil extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant has been shown to effectively combat fungal infections that cause athlete's foot, such as Trichophyton, Epidermophyton, and Microsporum. When applied topically in a tincture form, tea tree oil can penetrate deep into the skin to kill fungus, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
As a natural alternative to harsh chemicals, tea tree tinctures offer a gentle yet effective solution for treating athlete's foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia tinctures that help with athlete's foot.
- Cineole: This terpene has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help combat fungal infections and prevent their spread in athlete's foot.
- Cymene: This sesquiterpene has potent antifungal activity, particularly against fungi that cause athlete's foot, such as Trichophyton and Epidermophyton.
- Caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce redness, itching, and swelling associated with athlete's foot, promoting a faster recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make tinctures for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: Rich in tea tree oil, which has antifungal properties that help combat athlete's foot.
- Stems: Contain essential oils with antibacterial and antifungal properties that can aid in treating athlete's foot.
- Buds: Have a high concentration of tea tree oil, which can help reduce inflammation and fight fungal infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for athlete's foot.
- Gather 2 pounds of fresh melaleuca alternifolia leaves and flowers and clean them thoroughly to remove dirt and debris.
- Chop the clean melaleuca alternifolia leaves and flowers into small pieces to increase their surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped plant material with 80 proof vodka in a 1:5 ratio by weight and place in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the solvent to extract the plant's active compounds.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove the plant material.
2. Echinacea angustifolia
Kansas coneflower tinctures helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal properties, which effectively combat the fungal infections that cause this common skin condition.
The active compounds in the tincture, such as echinacea and kaempferol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, reducing symptoms like itching, burning, and scaling.
By applying a topical application of Kansas coneflower tincture to the affected area, individuals can promote healthy skin and prevent further infection, ultimately relieving discomfort and promoting overall foot health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures that help with athlete's foot.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds exhibit antifungal properties, which can help combat fungal infections such as athlete's foot by inhibiting the growth of fungi.
- Alkylamides: These constituents have shown anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in reducing inflammation and eliminating fungal pathogens associated with athlete's foot.
- Alkaloids: Some alkaloids present in Echinacea angustifolia have been found to exhibit antifungal and antimicrobial activities, helping to control the spread of fungal infections and promote healing in affected areas.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kansas coneflower used to make tinctures for athlete's foot.
- Roots: They contain echinacoside, a compound with potential antifungal properties that can help combat athlete's foot.
- Leaves: They possess antimicrobial properties that can aid in reducing fungal growth and alleviating symptoms associated with athlete's foot.
- Buds: They contain bioactive compounds with anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which can help soothe and treat athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kansas coneflower for athlete's foot.
- Harvest 1 part of echinacea angustifolia roots by hand in the fall when the plants are dormant.
- Clean the roots thoroughly with water to remove any dirt or debris from the harvest.
- Dry the roots in a warm place with good air circulation for 2 weeks to a month.
- Combine 1 part dried roots with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar in a 1:2 ratio.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar every day to extract the tincture.
3. Allium sativum
Garlic tinctures helps with athlete's foot because of its natural antifungal properties, which target the fungal infections that cause this common condition.
The active compounds in garlic, such as allicin and ajoene, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi responsible for athlete's foot, including Trichophyton and Epidermophyton species.
Additionally, garlic tinctures can help reduce inflammation and soothe itching and burning associated with athlete's foot, providing fast and effective relief from uncomfortable symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Allium sativum tinctures that help with athlete's foot.
- Allicin: A sulfur-containing compound that has antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot.
- Alliin: A precursor to allicin that can be converted into allicin upon application, contributing to the antifungal and antibacterial effects of the tincture.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce the redness and itching associated with athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of garlic used to make tinctures for athlete's foot.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used due to their high concentration of compounds like allicin, which have antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help combat fungal infections like athlete's foot.
- Roots: Roots are used because they contain bioactive compounds that have antifungal and antibacterial properties, making them effective in treating fungal infections such as athlete's foot.
- Buds: Buds are used as they contain high amounts of allicin and other sulfur compounds, which have potent antifungal and antibacterial properties that help treat athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic garlic for athlete's foot.
- Gather 25g of dried allium sativum roots and 500ml of vodka at 40% abv.
- Combine the allium sativum roots and vodka in a clean glass jar in a cool dark place.
- Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Store the tincture in a cool dark place and label it with the date and ingredients used.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender tinctures helps with athlete's foot because of its natural antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tincture's potent extract of essential oils, including linalool and linalyl acetate, can effectively combat fungal infections that cause the condition. Additionally, lavender's soothing properties can reduce redness, itching, and inflammation associated with athlete's foot.
By applying a few drops of the tincture to affected areas, individuals may experience relief from the discomfort and embarrassment of this common skin issue.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with athlete's foot.
- Linalool: This terpene has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help combat the fungal infections that cause athlete's foot.
- Linalyl acetate: Similar to linalool, linalyl acetate has antifungal and antimicrobial properties, making it effective against the pathogens that cause athlete's foot.
- Rosmarinic acid: As a phenolic compound, rosmarinic acid has potent antifungal and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections associated with athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: They contain antifungal and antimicrobial compounds that help combat fungal infections like athlete's foot.
- Flowers: Rich in antifungal and antibacterial properties, they aid in soothing and treating fungal infections and related skin irritations.
- Stems: The stems of Lavandula angustifolia also possess antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which contribute to their use in treating athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for athlete's foot.
- Harvest fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers in the morning when the dew is still present on the plant.
- Clean the harvested flowers thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris and gently dry them with paper towels.
- Combine the dried flowers with 60-70% ethanol in a ratio of 1:3 to 1:5 and allow the mixture to steep for 2-6 weeks.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to separate the liquid from the solids.
- Store the resulting tincture in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before use to allow the flavors to mature.
5. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The tincture, made from the flowers of Calendula officinalis, has been traditionally used to treat skin infections such as eczema and dermatitis. When applied topically, it can help soothe itching and reduce inflammation associated with athlete's foot, allowing the skin to heal faster.
Additionally, the antifungal properties of pot marigold tincture can combat fungal infections that cause the condition, promoting a healthy and balanced environment for the skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with athlete's foot.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds help with athlete's foot by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing, thus alleviating symptoms of the fungal infection.
- Triterpenoids: Triterpenoids like Ursolic Acid exhibit antifungal properties, which help combat the fungal growth that causes athlete's foot, thereby providing relief from the infection.
- Saponins: These compounds help with athlete's foot by disrupting the cell membrane of fungal pathogens, ultimately leading to their death and preventing further infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for athlete's foot.
- Flowers: They are used due to their antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and protect the skin from fungal infections.
- Leaves: They contain compounds that exhibit antifungal and antimicrobial properties, making them effective against the fungus causing athlete's foot.
- Roots: They are used due to their ability to promote skin healing and reduce inflammation, which is beneficial in treating the skin lesions associated with athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for athlete's foot.
- Harvest the fresh flowers of calendula officinalis on a sunny day when they are in full bloom.
- Clean and dry the harvested flowers in a low temperature oven for 2 hours.
- Combine 1 part of the dried flowers with 2 parts of vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place and let it steep for 6 to 8 weeks.
- Strain the liquid and discard the solids then transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle.
6. Origanum vulgare
Wild marjoram tinctures helps with athlete's foot because of its potent antifungal properties.
The herb contains compounds like thymol and carvacrol, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot. When applied topically in a tincture form, wild marjoram's antimicrobial agents work to soothe and calm affected skin, reducing symptoms like itching, burning, and scaling.
By targeting the fungal infection at its source, wild marjoram tinctures provide natural relief from this common and often uncomfortable condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Origanum vulgare tinctures that help with athlete's foot.
- Thymol: Thymol, a phenolic monoterpene, helps with athlete's foot by exhibiting antifungal properties, which effectively inhibit the growth of fungi that cause the infection.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol, a phenolic monoterpene, helps with athlete's foot by displaying potent antifungal and antibacterial activities, which aid in preventing the spread of fungal infections.
- Bornyl acetate: Bornyl acetate, a sesquiterpene, helps with athlete's foot by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing, which contributes to the overall recovery from fungal infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make tinctures for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: Used due to their antifungal properties, which help combat fungal infections like athlete's foot.
- Stems: Used due to their antiseptic properties, which aid in preventing bacterial and fungal growth that causes athlete's foot.
- Roots: Used due to their antimicrobial properties, which help eliminate fungal and bacterial infections that cause athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for athlete's foot.
- Gather 1 cup of origanum vulgare leaves and flowers and clean them thoroughly with water to remove any dirt.
- Combine the cleaned origanum vulgare leaves and flowers with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks to allow the infusion to develop.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass jar to separate the liquid from solids.
- Discard the solids and transfer the tincture to a dark glass bottle for storage and use.
7. Curcuma longa
Turmeric tinctures helps with athlete's foot because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The active compound curcumin in turmeric has been shown to effectively combat fungal infections, including those that cause athlete's foot. When applied topically as a tincture, curcumin penetrates deep into the skin, reducing inflammation and killing off harmful fungi that can exacerbate symptoms like itching, burning, and cracking.
This natural remedy provides quick relief from discomfort and promotes healthy skin restoration, making it an effective alternative to traditional treatments for athlete's foot.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa tinctures that help with athlete's foot.
- Curcumin: A polyphenolic compound, curcumin has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help combat the fungal infections causing athlete's foot by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens.
- Beta-caryophyllene: A sesquiterpene, beta-caryophyllene exhibits antifungal activity by disrupting the cell membranes of fungal pathogens, thereby inhibiting their growth and proliferation that contributes to athlete's foot.
- Demethoxycurcumin: A phenolic compound, demethoxycurcumin also possesses antifungal properties that help combat the fungal infections causing athlete's foot by inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make tinctures for athlete's foot.
- Rhyzomes: They are the primary source of curcumin, a powerful compound that fights fungal infections.
- Roots: They contain essential oils and curcumin, which help to combat fungal growth and soothe the affected area.
- Barks: The inner bark of the Curcuma longa plant has antimicrobial properties that aid in the treatment of athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for athlete's foot.
- Harvest 100g of fresh curcuma longa rhizomes during the plant's flowering stage.
- Dry the harvested rhizomes in a warm place with good air circulation for 2-3 weeks.
- Use a coffee grinder to finely chop 50g of the dried rhizomes for better extraction.
- Steep the chopped rhizomes in 250ml of high-proof vodka for 2-3 weeks in a dark glass container.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle and store for up to 2 years.
8. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help to combat the fungal infections that cause this condition.
The tincture's natural compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, work together to reduce inflammation and itching, while also preventing the growth of new fungal cells.
Additionally, the tincture's antimicrobial properties help to eliminate bacteria that can exacerbate athlete's foot symptoms, promoting a healthy and balanced environment for skin health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with athlete's foot.
- 6-gingerol: This sesquiterpene has anti-fungal properties that can help inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens causing athlete's foot.
- Shogaol: A sesquiterpene derivative, shogaol has been shown to exhibit antifungal activity and may help combat the fungal infections associated with athlete's foot.
- Gingerol: Gingerols have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help soothe and calm the skin, reducing inflammation and discomfort associated with athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for athlete's foot.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Zingiber officinale for tinctures due to their high concentration of active compounds like gingerol and shogaol, which have antifungal properties.
- Barks: The barks of Zingiber officinale may be used to make tinctures as they contain bioactive compounds that can help combat fungal infections, such as athlete's foot.
- Roots: Zingiber officinale roots are sometimes used to make tinctures for their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help alleviate symptoms of athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for athlete's foot.
- Harvest fresh zingiber officinale rhizomes with a sharp knife when the tops begin to yellow and dry.
- Clean and chop the harvested zingiber officinale into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
- Combine the chopped zingiber officinale pieces with 80-100 proof ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow for maximum extraction.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to remove solids.
9. Cymbopogon citratus
Lemongrass tinctures helps with athlete's foot because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The tannins in lemongrass have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot, such as Trichophyton rubrum and Epidermophyton floccosum. Additionally, lemongrass has anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe itchy skin and reduce redness and irritation associated with athlete's foot.
By using a herbal lemongrass tincture, individuals can naturally treat and prevent the infection, promoting healthy skin and reducing symptoms of this common condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus tinctures that help with athlete's foot.
- Limonene: This terpene has been shown to have antifungal properties, which can help inhibit the growth of fungi that cause athlete's foot.
- Germacrone: A sesquiterpene found in Cymbopogon citratus, germacrone has been reported to have antifungal and antibacterial activities, which can aid in treating fungal infections such as athlete's foot.
- Linalool: This monoterpenoid has antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which can help to reduce the growth of fungal pathogens and alleviate symptoms of athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make tinctures for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: Known for their antifungal properties, which help combat fungal infections associated with athlete's foot.
- Rhyzomes: Contain essential oils that have antiseptic and antifungal properties, making them effective against athlete's foot.
- Barks (not part of the list i'm supposed to select from, however, i'm going to add one more option from the provided list): Roots: Have been traditionally used to treat fungal infections, including athlete's foot, due to their antifungal properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for athlete's foot.
- Harvest 1 part of cymbopogon citratus leaves and stems by cutting them in the early morning to ensure highest oil content.
- Dry the plant material in a warm place for 7 to 10 days to reduce moisture content to 10 percent.
- Combine 1 part of dried plant material with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily to extract the active ingredients.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass container, discarding the solids and store the tincture.
10. Monarda didyma
Bee balm tinctures helps with athlete's foot because of its natural antifungal properties.
The herb's essential oils, such as citronellal and eucalyptol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal organisms that cause athlete's foot.
By applying a topical application of bee balm tincture to the affected area, it creates an environment that is hostile to fungal growth, promoting healing and reducing symptoms such as itching, burning, and scaling.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Monarda didyma tinctures that help with athlete's foot.
- Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic diterpene acts as an antifungal agent, helping to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens that cause athlete's foot.
- Caryophyllene oxide: This sesquiterpene has antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which can help combat fungal infections and reduce inflammation associated with athlete's foot.
- Limonene: This terpene has antifungal and antibacterial properties, helping to eliminate fungal pathogens and bacteria that contribute to the development and spread of athlete's foot.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of bee balm used to make tinctures for athlete's foot.
- Leaves: Known for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which help combat fungal infections.
- Roots: Contain bioactive compounds that exhibit antifungal and antibacterial activities, making them effective in treating athlete's foot.
- Flowers: Have been traditionally used to treat skin conditions due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in soothing and healing athlete's foot.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bee balm for athlete's foot.
- Harvest 20-30 monarda didyma flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated and before the heat of the day.
- Gently chop the fresh monarda didyma flowers into smaller pieces using scissors or a sharp knife.
- Combine 1 part monarda didyma flowers with 2 parts high-proof vodka in a clean glass jar to make a 1:2 ratio tincture.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking it every day to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for athlete's foot?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with athlete's foot is a blend of Tea Tree oil, Echinacea, and Goldenseal.
Tea Tree oil's antifungal properties combat fungal infections, while Echinacea enhances the immune system to fight off the infection. Goldenseal's berberine inhibits fungal growth, reducing the risk of reinfection. Mixing these tinctures creates a powerful formula to heal and prevent athlete's foot.
Apply topically 2-3 times a day, or as directed by a healthcare professional, for optimal results.
What ailments similar to athlete's foot are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to athlete's foot that are treated with herbal tinctures are fungal infections such as ringworm and jock itch.
These conditions cause itchy, red, and scaly skin on the feet, groin, or other areas of the body.
Herbal tinctures containing ingredients like tea tree oil, oregano oil, and calendula can help to soothe and treat these conditions by reducing inflammation and combating fungal growth.