Help for Dry, Itchy Feet

Vermont winters require warm boots to be worn daily and the result by summer time is often dry, cracking feet that could definitely smell a lot better!  If you cringe at the thought of sporting a pair of sandals and have itchy toes, you might have a mild case of athlete’s foot.  Athlete’s foot is a common fungus that is present around public swimming pools, showers and damp places.  When feet are exposed to this fungus, itching, redness, and even scaling can occur.  Here are some tips for prevention or relief:
•    Wear cotton socks and change daily
•    Try not to wear the same pair of shoes two days in a row
•    Be sure to wash all socks in hot water, either by hand or on the hot wash setting of your laundry machine
•    Keep your feet as dry as possible, especially the area between toes
•    Wear flip-flops in public showers to avoid stepping on the floor
•    Avoid walking around barefoot in public places

Melaleuca Alternifolia or Tea Tree Oil is an Australian plant that has traditionally been used by aboriginal people for a variety of skin ailments.  The leaves of the plant can be rubbed onto an affected area, but the most commonly known form here in the U.S. is the oil.
After consulting your physician, you may want to try diluting 2-3 drops in a cup of distilled water and then pat onto the soles of the feet.  Remember to let them dry in the open air or sunlight.