Athletes Foot (The Sunday Times, 18 December 2005)

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Q. My son is 12 years old and plays a lot of sport but he has excessive athletes foot although he does not wear trainers all the time. Can you suggest any treatment? We have tried the conventional methods available over the counter but they do not work as it just reappears.



A. The Neem tree has been used traditionally in Ayurvedic medicine in India for the treatment of many health problems and the neem oil, which is obtained from crushing the seeds of the neem tree, has historically been an effective form of treatment for certain fungi that infect the human body including athlete's foot. Anti-fungal and antiseptic NeemCare Oil contains 10% cold-pressed Neem Oil in a Sweet Almond oil base with essential oils (bergamot, rosemary and eucalyptus) and is sold in most health stores and selected pharmacies, priced £5.85 for 100ml (or visit www.neemco.co.uk). It’s also refreshing to know that the neem leaves, fruits and seeds in these products are sustainably harvested and that the crop provides economic and environmental benefits to local communities in India. After washing feet thoroughly using a tea tree soap, rub the Neem oil on to the affected area at bedtime. I would also suggest that his socks and trainers are thoroughly washed but add a few drops of tea tree oil to the solution to help disinfect and kill any nasties lurking in the fabric! Finally, sprinkle Tea Tree Foot Powder (£5.15 by Thursday Plantation, stockists 01274 360000) on the feet in the day time and in the trainers too as this contains tea tree and boric acid to help keep the area fresh and dry.



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