Monsoon foot care: Common problems and remedies that work
The monsoon season is enjoyable until you have to trudge through dirty puddles and mud. The humid, sticky, and wet days of this season can pose several foot-related health conditions like odor, cracks, itchiness, and fungus, which can be too daunting to deal with. Here are some common foot issues that you may face, along with remedies that can help.
Why are foot infections common during the monsoon?
Our feet are more exposed to water in the monsoon season and that too in tight, closed footwear, which is the main reason for skin infections. The humid weather also plays a role as it induces sweating, making our feet a breeding ground for bacteria/fungus.
Stinky feet
Monsoon can lead to stinky feet as the dirty water may enter through your shoes. To avoid that, you can bathe your feet in apple cider vinegar as it can kill the odor-causing bacteria/fungus. Grab a bucket of warm water, add some apple cider vinegar, and soak your feet for 10-15 minutes. Also, explore some other remedies to get rid of embarrassing foot odor.
Itchy feet
You may also experience a constant need to itch across your feet during the monsoon as they may sweat owing to the humid climatic conditions or get infected by dirty water. One of the best natural and home remedies to find respite from this is to either apply cold packs or apply a paste of oatmeal powder and water on the affected foot.
Cracked feet
Exposure to dirty water can damage the skin on your feet, leading to cracked heels and dryness. To fix this, all you have to do is use honey as it is a natural antiseptic that prevents the skin from dryness and offers plenty of moisture. Add a reasonable amount of honey to warm water, mix, and massage over the affected area.
Athlete's foot
Athlete's foot is among the most common fungal infections that you may get during the ongoing monsoon season. You can massage the affected area with tea tree oil as it is loaded with antifungal and antibacterial properties or indulge in a garlic foot soak with three-four garlic cloves added in lukewarm water. Both these remedies are safe to try daily.
