No one wants to have smelly feet. Not only does it stink, it also affects our self-confidence. Generally foot odor problems stem from sweat that is originally odorless. Though, sweat combined with bacteria can cause an embarrassing and awkward stench that can stick to the skin. The smell of your foot odor is usually affected by how much bacteria your sweat comes in contact with. There are certain bacteria that only cause a small amount of odor and bacteria that cause a strong and foul stench.
Bromhidrosis is the medical term for foot odor. The feet and the armpit are areas of the body that is prone to odor. The feet contain thousands of sweat glands, mostly on the soles of the feet. Our soles produce sweat that contains fats, certain acids, sodium chloride, minerals and water. Feet can be a natural breeding ground for bacteria. Bacteria that combined with sweat and humidity produce an odor that can stick to our socks, shoes, clothes and even our home. Sweating is enhanced when we seal our feet in tight shoes. This increases the chance of bacterial growth.
Though, there are cases where someone produces excessive amounts of perpetration that causes smelly feet. This is a medical condition called hyperhidrosis, which is abundant in males. This condition is hereditary, it can be present in both genders.
People sweat, no matter the weather or temperature. Pregnant women and teenagers are more prone to sweaty feet due to the hormonal spikes in their body. People that are required to stand long periods of time for their work are also prone to foot odor.
Other causes of foot other are athlete’s foot, stress, diabetes, drug, alcohol, warm feet, lack of ventilation for the feet, heart disease, certain medication, old age, poor hygiene and more.
Below are some natural home remedies that can help alleviate the foot odor and prevent them from coming back.
Epsom Salt
Epsom salt contains magnesium and sulfate that are easily absorbed by the skin. This compound can help reduce toxins in the body and ward off bacteria from the feet. Soaking your feet in an Epsom salt soak everyday will help reduce the smell of foot odor and kill the bacteria causing it. Create this soak by heating up some water and placing it in a basin where you can place your feet. Add half a cup of Epsom salt and mix. Soak your feet in the mixture for 15 minutes and rub dry Epsom salt on your feet every 5 minutes. Dry your feet and wear slippers or bare feet for an hour after the soak.
Ginger
ginger promotes sweating and detoxification in the body. It also contains antibacterial properties that can fight off germs and bacteria. Apply ginger on the feet by crushing a two inch piece of ginger. Take the pulp from the ginger and place it in a gauze of old handkerchief, tie it tightly. Place hot water in a basin and place the gauze inside. Leave it in for five minutes before soaking your feet in the basin. Do this every night before you go to sleep.
Vinegar
Vinegar may not be the sweetest smelling remedy you can place on your feet, but the acidic contents of it can help remove bacteria on the feet completely. You can use apple cider vinegar or regular vinegar for this remedy. Place warm water in a foot basin and stir in thyme essential oil and vinegar. Soak your feet in this mixture for about 25 minutes. Do not rinse it off, just pat dry the mixture and go to bed. Perform this remedy every day until you get desired results.
Black Tea
Black tea contains tannic acid that works as an antibacterial and astringent. This can help refresh the feet and reduce excessive perspiration. Soak 4 bags of black tea in a foot basin filled with hot water. Allow it the sit for 10 minutes before soaking in your feet. Soak it for half an hour and pat them dry.
Prevent foot odor by maintaining your shoes. Pick shoes that allow your feet to breathe. Shoes that are made of canvas or leather allows air to pass through the feet, making it the best option for work shoes. Wash your sneakers regularly and allow them to air dry. Sprinkling in baking soda in your shoes can mask the odor and kill the bacteria present in the shoe. Don’t wear socks two days in a row and never wear them when your feet are wet. What you eat can also affect your foot odor. Stray away from spicy and greasy food.
