By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Foot Odor
Herbal tinctures for foot odor are concentrated plant-based extracts that have natural antimicrobial, antifungal, and antibacterial properties, making them effective in combating foot odor.
These tinctures work by killing off bacteria and fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, such as between the toes and underfoot. Examples of herbal tinctures that help with foot odor include Tea Tree Oil, Thyme, and Garlic extracts, which have been shown to significantly reduce sweat and eliminate unpleasant odors.
By using these tinctures, individuals can enjoy fresher, more confident feet, improving their overall quality of life and allowing them to participate in activities without worrying about embarrassing odors.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for foot odor, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 2. Calendula officinalis
- 3. Aloe vera
- 4. Lavandula angustifolia
- 5. Thymus vulgaris
- 6. Geranium maculatum
- 7. Cinnamomum verum
- 8. Eucalyptus globulus
- 9. Rosmarinus officinalis
- 10. Salvia officinalis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for foot odor?
- What ailments similar to foot odor are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Tea tree tinctures helps with foot odor because of its potent antifungal and antibacterial properties.
When applied topically, the tincture's active ingredients, such as terpinen-4-ol, work to combat the bacteria that cause foot odor, reducing its intensity and preventing future buildup. This natural remedy also has deodorizing properties, leaving feet feeling fresh and clean.
As a result, tea tree tinctures provide an effective solution for individuals who struggle with persistent foot odor, helping them regain confidence in their footwear choices.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia tinctures that help with foot odor.
- Cineole: Cineole helps combat foot odor by its antimicrobial properties, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause bad smells.
- Cymene: Cymene, a terpene in tea tree oil, exhibits potent antibacterial and antifungal activities, which can reduce the presence of microorganisms contributing to foot odor.
- Terpinen-4-ol: Terpinen-4-ol, another key terpene in tea tree oil, has been shown to exhibit strong antimicrobial properties, helping to eliminate bacteria and fungi that cause foot odor.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make tinctures for foot odor.
- Leaves: Known for their antimicrobial properties, which help combat foot odor-causing bacteria.
- Stems: Also rich in antimicrobial properties, which aid in reducing foot odor.
- Barks: Contain compounds that have antiseptic and antibacterial properties, helping to eliminate foot odor.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for foot odor.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh melaleuca alternifolia leaves in the early morning to ensure optimal potency and aroma.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 1 to 2 weeks.
- Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder to increase surface area.
- Combine 1 part of the powdered leaves with 2 parts of 95% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture for 2 to 3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
2. Calendula officinalis
Pot marigold tinctures helps with foot odor because its antimicrobial properties effectively combat fungi and bacteria that cause sweat to accumulate and produce unpleasant odors.
The herb's natural astringent qualities also help dry out the skin, reducing moisture that can contribute to foot odor. Additionally, pot marigold has anti-inflammatory properties that may soothe irritated skin and reduce redness associated with excessive sweating.
By addressing these underlying issues, pot marigold tinctures can help restore freshness and confidence in your feet.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis tinctures that help with foot odor.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce the growth of bacteria that cause foot odor.
- Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties, helping to control the proliferation of odor-causing microorganisms on the skin.
- Flavonoids: These flavonoids possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce irritation and inflammation associated with foot odor, promoting a healthier environment for the skin.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make tinctures for foot odor.
- Flowers: They are the most commonly used part due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help combat foot odor-causing bacteria.
- Leaves: Leaves contain compounds that inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria, making them effective against foot odor.
- Roots: Roots of Calendula officinalis are known to have antimicrobial properties, which help eliminate bacteria and fungi that cause foot odor.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for foot odor.
- Harvest calendula flowers at peak bloom for maximum potency when the petals are fully open and brightly colored.
- Clean and dry the flowers thoroughly by spreading them out in a single layer on paper towels for 24 hours.
- Combine 1 part dried flowers with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar for a ratio.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar gently every day.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe tinctures helps with foot odor because of its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.
The aloe vera plant has been used for centuries to treat a variety of skin issues, including fungal infections that can cause foot odor. When applied topically as a tincture, the aloe vera extract targets the source of the smell, reducing the growth of bacteria and fungi that contribute to foot odor.
Additionally, its anti-inflammatory properties help soothe and calm irritated skin, leaving feet feeling fresh and clean.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with foot odor.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds help with foot odor by exhibiting antimicrobial properties, which reduce the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the skin.
- Saponins: Saponins in Aloe vera tinctures have been found to inhibit the growth of microorganisms responsible for foot odor, thereby reducing the intensity of the odor.
- Bradykininase inhibitors: Specifically, Aloe vera contains amino acids that inhibit the action of bradykininase, an enzyme involved in the breakdown of bradykinin, a peptide that contributes to foot odor.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for foot odor.
- Leaves: The leaves of Aloe vera contain a high concentration of aloe-emodin, which has been shown to have antimicrobial properties that help combat foot odor.
- Stems: The stems of Aloe vera contain aloe-emodin and other compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce foot odor and soothe irritated skin.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for foot odor.
- Harvest aloe vera leaves when they are mature and have a vibrant green color with no signs of yellowing.
- Chop the aloe vera leaves into small pieces using a sharp knife and wear protective gloves.
- Combine the chopped aloe vera pieces with 80% vodka and 20% glycerin in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks while shaking the jar every few days.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle.
4. Lavandula angustifolia
English lavender tinctures helps with foot odor because of its natural antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The potent essential oils in lavender, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to effectively combat the bacteria that cause unpleasant odors in feet. When applied topically, these oils can help reduce moisture buildup, prevent fungal growth, and leave feet smelling fresh and clean.
Additionally, lavender's calming properties can soothe irritation and discomfort often associated with foot odor, promoting overall foot health and well-being.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia tinctures that help with foot odor.
- Linalool: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause foot odor.
- Linalyl acetate: This terpene also has antimicrobial properties and helps to prevent the breakdown of sweat, which can contribute to foot odor.
- Lavandulol: This terpene has antifungal properties, helping to combat fungal infections that can cause foot odor.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make tinctures for foot odor.
- Leaves: Their antimicrobial properties help combat the bacteria that cause foot odor.
- Stems: The essential oils present in the stems have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help reduce foot odor.
- Flowers: The lavender flowers' antiseptic and antifungal properties can help soothe and deodorize the feet.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for foot odor.
- Harvest 100g of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers on a dry sunny day for optimal potency.
- Dry the flowers in a warm dark place for 2-3 weeks to achieve 10% moisture content.
- Combine the dried flowers with 50% vodka in a 1:2 ratio by weight for extraction.
- Steep the mixture in a glass container for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
- Strain the mixture through a coffee filter into a dark glass bottle for storage and use.
5. Thymus vulgaris
Thyme tinctures helps with foot odor because of its natural antimicrobial properties, which work to eliminate bacteria that cause foot sweat to become smelly.
The essential oils in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria that contribute to foot odor.
When used as a tincture, these oils can be easily absorbed through the skin, helping to keep feet fresh and dry by reducing the amount of sweat that contributes to odor.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris tinctures that help with foot odor.
- Thymol: Thymol, a phenolic compound, has antimicrobial properties, which help combat bacteria and fungi that cause foot odor.
- Carvacrol: Carvacrol, a monoterpenic phenol, possesses potent antibacterial and antifungal properties, reducing the growth of odor-causing microorganisms in the feet.
- Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide, a sesquiterpene, has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate foot odor and associated irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make tinctures for foot odor.
- Leaves: Thyme leaves are rich in antimicrobial properties, particularly thymol, which helps combat foot fungi and bacteria causing odor.
- Stems: Thyme stems, like leaves, contain thymol and other essential oils that contribute to their antifungal and antibacterial properties.
- Barks: Thyme barks have been traditionally used to address skin issues, including foot odor, due to their astringent and antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for foot odor.
- Gather 1 part of fresh or dried thymus vulgaris leaves and flowers to make a tincture.
- Combine the thymus vulgaris with 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
- Label and store the herbal tincture in a cool dark place for up to 2 years after making.
6. Geranium maculatum
Wild geranium tinctures helps with foot odor because of its natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.
The herb's active compounds, such as geraniol and rosmarinic acid, work together to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause unpleasant odors in the feet. Additionally, wild geranium has anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe irritated skin and reduce sweat production, further contributing to a fresher and healthier foot environment.
By using herbal wild geranium tinctures, individuals can naturally and effectively combat foot odor without resorting to harsh chemicals or artificial fragrances.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Geranium maculatum tinctures that help with foot odor.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce the growth of odor-causing bacteria on the feet.
- Flavonoids: They possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce sweat and inflammation that contribute to foot odor.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds exhibit antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which can help combat fungal infections such as athlete's foot, a common cause of foot odor.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wild geranium used to make tinctures for foot odor.
- Roots: They contain compounds that help to reduce fungal and bacterial growth, which can contribute to foot odor.
- Leaves: They contain antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help to eliminate odor-causing microorganisms on the skin.
- Roots (again, as this is the primary part used): They are rich in rosmarinic acid, which has antimicrobial properties that can help to reduce foot odor.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild geranium for foot odor.
- Harvest 1 pint of fresh geranium maculatum roots and rhizomes in early spring or late summer.
- Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Combine 1 pint of chopped plant material with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the liquid mixture through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
7. Cinnamomum verum
Ceylon cinnamon tinctures helps with foot odor because of its unique properties that combat bacteria and fungi responsible for causing unpleasant smells.
The tincture's antimicrobial agents work to eliminate odor-causing microorganisms, leaving feet feeling fresher and cleaner. Additionally, Ceylon cinnamon's natural antiseptic qualities help to reduce inflammation and irritation, which can contribute to foot odor.
By using an herbal Ceylon cinnamon tincture as a foot soak or spray, individuals can enjoy long-lasting freshness and confidence in their footwear.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cinnamomum verum tinctures that help with foot odor.
- Cinnamaldehyde: This phenolic compound is known for its antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause foot odor.
- Cinnamomin: This terpene has antifungal properties, which can help combat the fungal infections that contribute to foot odor.
- Cinnamyl acetate: This compound has a mild antimicrobial effect, helping to control the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause foot odor.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ceylon cinnamon used to make tinctures for foot odor.
- Leaves: Leaves are used due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help combat foot odor-causing microorganisms.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are used for their antiseptic and antifungal properties, which aid in reducing foot odor and promoting a healthy environment for foot health.
- Barks: Barks are used due to their ability to inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria that contribute to foot odor.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ceylon cinnamon for foot odor.
- Gather 250g of dried cinnamomum verum bark and place it in a clean glass jar to prepare for infusion.
- Combine the jar with 750ml of 80 proof vodka and stir gently to ensure the bark is fully submerged.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 6 weeks to allow the tincture to mature slowly.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into another clean glass jar to remove the bark residue completely.
- Transfer the tincture to small glass bottles and label them with the date and the amount of 20ml as the recommended dosage.
8. Eucalyptus globulus
Tasmanian blue gum tinctures helps with foot odor because of its potent antimicrobial properties, which work to eliminate bacteria and fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments like between toes.
The tincture's natural ingredients also help to reduce sweat production, while its deodorizing effects leave feet feeling fresh and clean.
As a result, herbal Tasmanian blue gum tinctures provide a natural solution for banishing embarrassing foot odor, leaving you feeling confident and comfortable in your own skin.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eucalyptus globulus tinctures that help with foot odor.
- Cineole: Cineole helps to reduce foot odor by its antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi that cause unpleasant smells.
- Catechin: Catechin, a type of flavonoid, helps to combat foot odor by its antioxidant properties, which prevent the formation of volatile organic compounds that contribute to foot odor.
- Piperitone: Piperitone, a type of terpene, helps to reduce foot odor by its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which prevent the growth of microorganisms that cause foot odor.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tasmanian blue gum used to make tinctures for foot odor.
- Leaves: These are commonly used due to their high concentration of eucalyptol, a natural decongestant and antimicrobial agent that helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria.
- Barks: The bark of Eucalyptus globulus is another popular choice for tinctures, as it contains compounds that help reduce inflammation and prevent fungal infections that contribute to foot odor.
- Roots: Eucalyptus roots are used in tinctures because they contain sesquiterpenes, which have antimicrobial properties that help combat odor-causing bacteria and fungi.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tasmanian blue gum for foot odor.
- Harvest 1 pound of eucalyptus globulus leaves and flowers in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a cool dark place for 7 to 10 days.
- Combine 1 pound of dried eucalyptus globulus with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 3 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the tincture through cheesecloth into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
9. Rosmarinus officinalis
Rosemary tinctures helps with foot odor because of its natural antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The herb's essential oils, such as camphor, borneol, and bornyl acetate, have been shown to inhibit the growth of microorganisms that contribute to foot odor. Additionally, rosemary's decongestant properties help to reduce sweat production, which can exacerbate foot odor.
By applying a few drops of rosemary tincture to the affected area, individuals can effectively combat foot odor and keep their feet feeling fresh and clean.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Rosmarinus officinalis tinctures that help with foot odor.
- Cineole: Acts as an antimicrobial agent, preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi that contribute to foot odor.
- Caryophyllene oxide: Exhibits antifungal properties, helping to eliminate fungal infections that can cause foot odor.
- Rosmarinic acid: Possesses antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of odor-causing bacteria and fungi in the feet.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of rosemary used to make tinctures for foot odor.
- Leaves: The leaves of Rosmarinus officinalis are commonly used due to their high concentration of essential oils, particularly camphor and borneol, which have antimicrobial properties effective against foot odor-causing bacteria.
- Flowers: The flowers are used for their antiseptic and antifungal properties, which help to reduce foot odor and fungal infections.
- Stems: The stems of Rosmarinus officinalis contain oils that have antimicrobial properties, which aid in preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi that contribute to foot odor.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rosemary for foot odor.
- Gather 1 part of fresh rosmarinus officinalis leaves and 2 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Combine the rosmarinus officinalis leaves and vodka in the jar and seal it tightly with a lid.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to allow the mixture to steep.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
- Label and date the bottle then store it in a cool dark place for up to 5 years.
10. Salvia officinalis
Sage tinctures helps with foot odor because of its natural antifungal and antibacterial properties, which target the bacteria that cause bad breath and foot odor.
The essential oils in sage have been shown to inhibit the growth of Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus, two common causes of foot odor. When applied topically as a tincture, sage helps to kill off these bacteria and fungi, leaving feet feeling fresh and dry.
Regular use can help to reduce foot odor and keep feet smelling clean and healthy.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Salvia officinalis tinctures that help with foot odor.
- Rosmarinic acid: This polyphenolic compound has antibacterial properties, which can help reduce the growth of bacteria on the skin that contribute to foot odor.
- Carnosic acid: This phenolic diterpene has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help eliminate bacteria and reduce inflammation in the skin, thereby reducing foot odor.
- Salvianolic acid: This polyphenolic compound has antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, which can help neutralize free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause foot odor.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for foot odor.
- Leaves: Salvia officinalis leaves are used to make tinctures for foot odor because of their antifungal and antibacterial properties.
- Roots: Salvia officinalis roots are used to make tinctures for foot odor due to their antimicrobial properties.
- Stems: Salvia officinalis stems are used to make tinctures for foot odor because they contain antimicrobial compounds that help combat foot odor-causing bacteria and fungi.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sage for foot odor.
- Harvest salvia officinalis leaves and flowers at peak potency when the plant is in full bloom usually in mid to late summer.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a warm dark place for 1 to 2 weeks to reduce moisture content.
- Chop the dried plant material into small pieces and measure out 100 grams of the herb for the tincture.
- Combine the chopped herb with 500 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass jar and seal it tightly.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar every few days to enhance extraction.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for foot odor?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with foot odor is a blend of Tea Tree (Melaleuca Alternifolia) and Peppermint (Mentha Piperita).
Tea Tree oil, with its antimicrobial properties, helps to combat fungal and bacterial growth, reducing the underlying causes of foot odor. Meanwhile, Peppermint oil's refreshing and antiseptic properties help to cool and dry the feet, making them less hospitable to odor-causing bacteria.
This combination can be used as a natural alternative to conventional foot deodorizers.
What ailments similar to foot odor are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to foot odor that are treated with herbal tinctures are sweat-related conditions such as hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), bromhidrosis (sweat smell), and body odor.
Herbal tinctures like tea tree oil, lemongrass, and geranium can help reduce sweat and eliminate bacteria that cause unpleasant odors, promoting freshness and confidence.