By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Cracked Heels
Herbal creams for cracked heels are topical treatments infused with natural ingredients that help to moisturize, soften, and heal dry, cracked skin on the heels.
These creams typically contain herbs such as aloe vera, tea tree oil, and shea butter, which work together to soothe and repair damaged skin.
Examples of herbal creams include coconut oil and beeswax-based creams, which can improve lives by providing long-lasting relief from discomfort and pain, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities with confidence and comfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for cracked heels, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 3. Matricaria chamomilla
- 4. Hypericum perforatum
- 5. Lavandula angustifolia
- 6. Triticum aestivum
- 7. Hamamelis virginiana
- 8. Taraxacum officinale
- 9. Plantago major
- 10. Urtica dioica
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for cracked heels?
- What ailments similar to cracked heels are treated with herbal creams?
1. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with cracked heels because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as triterpene saponins and carotenoids, help to soothe and calm dry, cracked skin. Calendula's natural moisturizing properties lock in hydration, promoting skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of cracks.
Regular application of Calendula cream can also help to reduce the risk of further irritation and infection, promoting healthy, smooth skin on the heels.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with cracked heels.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds help to soothe and protect cracked heels by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.
- Flavonoids: Quercetin, a flavonoid present in Calendula, has anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce redness and swelling associated with cracked heels.
- Naphthoquinones: Calanol, a naphthoquinone present in Calendula, exhibits antimicrobial properties that help to prevent infections and promote a healthy environment for wound healing on cracked heels.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for cracked heels.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part of Calendula officinalis due to their high concentration of triterpenoid saponins and flavonoids, which provide anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
- Leaves: They are used to make creams for cracked heels due to their high content of carotenoids and flavonoids, which help to promote skin health and reduce inflammation.
- Seeds: They are used to extract calenduloside, a triterpene saponin with anti-inflammatory properties, which can be incorporated into creams for cracked heels to provide soothing relief.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for cracked heels.
- Harvest the calendula flowers in full sun at peak bloom for optimal potency and freshness in large quantities.
- Infuse 2 cups of the calendula flowers in 4 cups of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids after 30 minutes of squeezing.
- Combine 1/2 cup of the infused liquid with 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Whisk the mixture until it thickens and cools to a consistent creamy texture in approximately 20 minutes.
2. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with cracked heels because of its potent antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The tea tree oil present in the cream effectively combats the fungal and bacterial infections that cause cracked heels. It also promotes wound healing, reduces inflammation, and moisturizes the skin, making it an ideal treatment for dry, cracked heels.
Regular application of tea tree cream helps to repair and soften the skin, leaving the feet feeling smooth and healthy.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with cracked heels.
- Cineole: This terpene helps to reduce inflammation and promote healing of cracked heels by creating an environment that prevents bacterial and fungal infections.
- Linalool: As an antiseptic and antifungal compound, Linalool aids in the treatment of cracked heels by preventing the growth of pathogens that can worsen the condition.
- Catechin: This phenolic compound exhibits antioxidant properties, which help to protect the skin from oxidative stress and promote the regeneration of healthy skin cells to repair cracked heels.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for cracked heels.
- Leaves: They are used to make creams for cracked heels due to their high concentration of tea tree oil, which has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help to soothe and heal dry, cracked skin.
- Seeds: They are used to add moisturizing properties to creams for cracked heels, as they contain a high amount of oil that can help to hydrate and soften dry skin.
- Barks: They are used to make creams for cracked heels due to their ability to provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and protect the skin from further damage.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for cracked heels.
- Weigh 20 grams of dried melaleuca alternifolia leaves and place them in a heat-resistant container.
- Mix 100 milliliters of oil such as sweet almond oil with 50 milliliters of distilled water.
- Combine the oil and water mixture with the dried leaves in the heat-resistant container and heat it.
- Infuse the mixture for 2 hours at 60 degrees celsius then let it cool completely.
- Strain the cooled mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean container and add 10 grams of beeswax.
3. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with cracked heels because of its soothing and moisturizing properties.
The anti-inflammatory compounds present in chamomile oil reduce redness and irritation, calming the skin and promoting healing. Additionally, chamomile's emollient properties lock in moisture, softening and hydrating the dry cracked skin. By regularly applying a chamomile cream, you can help to repair and protect your heels, leaving them feeling smooth and healthy.
This natural remedy provides long-lasting relief from cracked heels.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with cracked heels.
- Apigenin: An apigenin is a flavonoid that helps with cracked heels by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Alpha-bisabolol: Alpha-bisabolol is a sesquiterpene alcohol that helps with cracked heels by providing a soothing and moisturizing effect, reducing inflammation and promoting skin regeneration.
- Matricine: Matricine is a sesquiterpene glycoside that helps with cracked heels by acting as an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing redness and swelling, and promoting the repair of damaged skin tissue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for cracked heels.
- Flowers: Used to make creams for cracked heels because of their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm and soften the skin.
- Leaves: Used to make creams for cracked heels because of their emollient and moisturizing properties, which help to lock in moisture and promote skin elasticity.
- Seeds: Used to make creams for cracked heels because of their rich content of antioxidants and essential fatty acids, which help to nourish and protect the skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for cracked heels.
- Harvest 1 cup of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers at the peak of their potency to ensure maximum efficacy.
- Infuse 2 cups of distilled water with 1 cup of dried matricaria chamomilla flowers for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Strain the infused liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.
- Mix 1/2 cup of beeswax with 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Combine the infused liquid with the beeswax and coconut oil mixture and whip until light and fluffy for 5 minutes.
4. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with cracked heels because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The active compounds in the herb, such as hyperforin and hypericin, promote the healing process by reducing inflammation and preventing infection in the affected area. The cream also helps to lock in moisture and promote the growth of new skin cells, leading to a faster recovery and a softer, smoother texture of the skin on the heels.
This results in a significant reduction of discomfort and pain.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with cracked heels.
- Naphthodianthrones: These compounds help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, which can aid in the recovery of cracked heels.
- Quercetin: As a flavonoid and powerful antioxidant, quercetin can help soothe and protect the skin from further damage, promoting the healing of cracked heels.
- Hyperforin: This phenolic compound has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, helping to prevent infection and promote the healing process of cracked heels.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for cracked heels.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids and tannins, leaves help to soothe and protect cracked heels.
- Stems: Containing flavonoids and phenolic acids, stems aid in reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing.
- Flowers: Packed with flavonoids, anthocyanins, and other bioactive compounds, flowers help to accelerate tissue repair and regeneration in cracked heels.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for cracked heels.
- Extract 25g of dried hypericum perforatum flowers in a glass container using 500ml of glycerin and 250ml of distilled water.
- Infuse the mixture for 2 hours at room temperature or 30 minutes in a double boiler.
- Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and collect the liquid extract.
- Mix 10g of beeswax with 10g of coconut oil in a saucepan over low heat.
- Combine the herbal extract with the beeswax mixture and stir until it thickens into a smooth cream.
5. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with cracked heels because of its exceptional moisturizing and soothing properties.
The cream's high concentration of antioxidants and essential oils works to deeply hydrate and repair dry, cracked skin. As the cream is absorbed, it helps to reduce inflammation and promote the regeneration of healthy skin cells. Regular use can lead to softer, smoother heels that are less prone to cracking and splitting.
This makes English lavender creams an effective and natural solution for cracked heel relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with cracked heels.
- Linalool: A terpene that helps to moisturize and soften the skin, reducing dryness and cracks in the heels.
- Linalyl acetate: A terpene that has anti-inflammatory properties, reducing redness and swelling associated with cracked heels, and promoting healing.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that has antioxidant properties, protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals and promoting collagen synthesis, which helps to improve skin texture and reduce the appearance of cracks.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for cracked heels.
- Leaves: They are often used due to their antiseptic and antifungal properties, which help to soothe and heal cracked skin.
- Flowers: Lavender flowers are commonly used for their calming and moisturizing effects, which can help to soften and protect dry, cracked heels.
- Stems: The stems of Lavandula angustifolia contain essential oils that can help to reduce inflammation and promote skin regeneration, making them beneficial for cracked heel creams.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for cracked heels.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in the early morning hours for optimal potency and flavor.
- Steep 1/4 cup of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil for 2-4 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass container to remove the dried flowers.
- Whip 1/2 cup of shea butter and 1/4 cup of beeswax with 1/2 cup of the infused lavandula angustifolia oil until smooth and creamy.
- Pour the whipped mixture into small glass jars and let it set at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour before use.
6. Triticum aestivum
Triticum aestivum, also known as wheat, creams helps with cracked heels because of its rich nutrient content and moisturizing properties.
The cream's active ingredients, derived from the wheat plant, work to lock in moisture and soothe dry, cracked skin. The emollient properties of wheat cream help to soften and smooth the skin, reducing the appearance of cracks and fissures. Regular application can also promote healthy skin regeneration, leaving heels feeling soft and supple.
This natural remedy can provide long-lasting relief from dry, cracked heels.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Triticum aestivum creams that help with cracked heels.
- Fiber: High in soluble fiber, Triticum aestivum creams may help to lock in moisture and reduce dryness of the skin, thereby soothing and protecting cracked heels.
- Avenanthramides: These polyphenolic compounds have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce redness and swelling associated with cracked heels, promoting faster healing and recovery.
- Saponins: Saponins in Triticum aestivum creams may help to clean and exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell turnover, which can help to improve the texture and appearance of cracked heels.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wheat used to make creams for cracked heels.
- Seeds: Wheat seeds are used due to their high content of emollients and fatty acids that help to moisturize and soften dry skin.
- Stems: Wheat stem extracts are used for their soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to calm and protect cracked heels.
- Leaves: Wheat leaf extracts are used for their antioxidant and moisturizing properties, which help to nourish and repair dry skin on the heels.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wheat for cracked heels.
- Harvest 1 cup of fresh triticum aestivum roots and leaves in the morning for optimal potency.
- Dry the harvested triticum aestivum roots and leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours.
- Steep 1/2 cup of dried triticum aestivum roots and leaves in 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil through a cheesecloth into a clean container discarding the solids and reserve the oil.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of the infused oil with 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter and melt the mixture.
7. Hamamelis virginiana
Hamamelis virginiana, also known as American Witch Hazel, creams helps with cracked heels because of its exceptional astringent and anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream helps to dry out the cracked skin, reducing the moisture that can exacerbate the condition. The anti-inflammatory properties of Witch Hazel also help to soothe and calm the skin, reducing redness and irritation. As a result, the cream promotes healing and helps to repair the cracked skin, leaving it smoother and more moisturized.
This makes it an effective solution for cracked heels.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana creams that help with cracked heels.
- Tannins: Tannins help with cracked heels by providing a protective barrier on the skin's surface, reducing moisture loss and inflammation, and promoting a healing environment.
- Hamamelitannin: Hamamelitannin contributes to the treatment of cracked heels by exhibiting antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing bacterial growth and soothing irritated skin.
- Astringent phenolics: Astringent phenolics, such as gallic acid and ellagic acid, help with cracked heels by reducing inflammation, promoting tissue repair, and tightening the skin to reduce moisture loss and prevent further irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make creams for cracked heels.
- Barks: Hamamelis virginiana barks are commonly used due to their high tannin content, which provides astringent and antiseptic properties, helping to soothe and protect cracked heels.
- Leaves: Hamamelis virginiana leaves are used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing inflammation and promoting healing of cracked skin on the heels.
- Rhyzomes: Hamamelis virginiana rhyzomes contain a high concentration of hamamelitannin, a compound that provides antiseptic and astringent properties, helping to protect and heal cracked heels.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for cracked heels.
- Harvest 1 part of dried hamamelis virginiana flowers and leaves to 3 parts of carrier oil in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 3 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar daily for 1 minute.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar discarding the solids.
- Mix 1 part of the infused hamamelis virginiana oil with 1 part of beeswax and 1 part of cocoa butter in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for about 10 minutes stirring occasionally until the beeswax and cocoa butter have melted.
8. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, creams helps with cracked heels because of its potent anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as inulin and taraxasterol, penetrate deep into the skin to soothe and soften dry, cracked areas. By locking in moisture and reducing inflammation, Taraxacum officinale cream accelerates the healing process and promotes the growth of healthy skin cells, leaving cracked heels smooth and hydrated.
Regular use can also help prevent future occurrences.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale creams that help with cracked heels.
- Inulin: A type of fructan, inulin helps retain moisture in the skin, reducing dryness and cracking.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpene saponin, taraxasterol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help soothe and protect the skin from further damage.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants may help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, contributing to the repair of cracked skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make creams for cracked heels.
- Roots: They are used to make creams for cracked heels due to their high content of inulin, which helps to soothe and moisturize dry skin.
- Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are used to create creams for cracked heels due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which help to calm irritated skin.
- Seeds: The seeds of Taraxacum officinale are used to make creams for cracked heels because they contain essential fatty acids, which help to nourish and moisturize dry skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for cracked heels.
- Harvest taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers when they are fresh and in full bloom approximately 1 cup of dried taraxacum officinale.
- Dry the taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers using a low heat dehydrator at 95 degrees fahrenheit for 24 hours.
- Infuse 1/2 cup of dried taraxacum officinale in 2 cups of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Mix 1/4 cup of the infused oil with 1/2 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Whip the mixture until it thickens and cools to a consistency suitable for application to the skin in about 10 minutes.
9. Plantago major
Plantago major, also known as plantain, creams helps with cracked heels because it possesses anti-inflammatory and moisturizing properties.
The plant's extract has been traditionally used to soothe and soften dry skin, making it an effective remedy for cracked heels. The cream helps to lock in moisture, reducing the appearance of cracks and promoting healthy skin regeneration.
Regular application of plantain cream can lead to smoother, more hydrated skin, reducing the discomfort and pain associated with cracked heels.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Plantago major creams that help with cracked heels.
- Apolipids: These lipids help to moisturize and protect the skin, reducing dryness and cracking associated with cracked heels.
- Triterpenoids: As anti-inflammatory compounds, these triterpenoids help to soothe and reduce inflammation in the skin, promoting healing and reducing pain associated with cracked heels.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals, promoting collagen production and improving skin elasticity, which can help to reduce the appearance of cracks and fissures in the skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of plantain used to make creams for cracked heels.
- Leaves: Used due to their high mucilage content, which helps to soothe and moisturize dry skin.
- Seeds: Used because they contain a high amount of plant sterols, which can help to protect and repair cracked skin.
- Roots: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in healing and preventing infection of cracked heels.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic plantain for cracked heels.
- Harvest 100 grams of dried plantago major leaves and flowers to ensure their potency and freshness.
- Combine the dried herbs with 500 milliliters of coconut oil in a double boiler over low heat.
- Steep the mixture for 2 hours and 30 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse.
- Strain the oil through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container to remove any solids.
- Mix 100 grams of beeswax and 50 grams of shea butter into the oil to create a smooth and stable cream.
10. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with cracked heels because of its rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's high concentration of vitamins A and E, as well as its natural humectant properties, helps to lock in moisture and soothe dry, cracked skin. Additionally, Urtica dioica's ability to stimulate blood flow and promote collagen production helps to accelerate the healing process, leaving heels feeling softer, smoother, and more resilient.
This makes it an effective natural solution for cracked heels.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with cracked heels.
- Furanocoumarins: These compounds help reduce inflammation and promote healing in cracked heels by inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause infections.
- Triterpenoids: This constituent helps to reduce inflammation and improve skin integrity by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing the skin's natural barrier function.
- Phenolic acids: This compound helps to reduce inflammation and improve the skin's ability to retain moisture, thus promoting the healing of cracked heels and preventing further damage.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for cracked heels.
- Leaves: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of urtic acid, which provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Stems: Stems are also utilized for their content of urtic acid and other compounds that help soothe and moisturize dry, cracked skin.
- Roots: Roots are used for their potential to stimulate collagen production and improve skin elasticity, making them beneficial for cracked heel treatment.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for cracked heels.
- Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh urtica dioica leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Steam the harvested urtica dioica for 20 minutes to reduce the urushiol content and increase the bioavailability.
- Mix the steamed urtica dioica with 1/4 cup of coconut oil in a saucepan over low heat.
- Stir the mixture for 10 minutes and then let it infuse for 2 hours to allow the herbal properties to combine.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids before filling the herbal cream into a jar.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for cracked heels?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with cracked heels is a blend of aloe vera, shea butter, and tea tree oil.
Aloe vera moisturizes and soothes dry skin, while shea butter deeply nourishes and protects cracked heels. Tea tree oil, with its antimicrobial properties, helps to prevent infections and promote healing.
Applying a mixture of these creams, ideally after exfoliating and before bedtime, can help to repair and soften cracked heels over time, promoting healthy and smooth skin.
What ailments similar to cracked heels are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to cracked heels that are treated with herbal creams are eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin conditions.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and coconut oil help to soothe and moisturize the skin, reducing inflammation and promoting healing.
These creams can also be used to treat conditions such as keratosis pilaris, which causes rough patches on the arms and legs.