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Chic Pedi

Chic Pedi

Foot Products and Tools For Beautiful Feet

Martina McKeough

How To Repair Cracked Heels With Vinegar

Cracked heels are really common but they don’t look great particularly if you want to walk around in the summer with sandals. There are plenty of ways that you can prevent the problem but I’m going to talk about one of the more unusual methods which is how to repair cracked heels with vinegar.

Vinegar is probably the last thing you would think of when trying to repair dry or cracked heels but actually it is an easy and cheap way to make a difference.

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How To Repair a Cracked Heel At Home

The great thing about vinegar is that it is a really effective remedy and entirely natural. Believe it or not vinegar actually helps to soften the skin and that means it becomes easier to exfoliate so you can remove the dead skin cells.

Using a vinegar foot soak is really easy to do and I’m going to talk about what I use in my step by step guide.

 

 

Gather Together These Items

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Foot Soak
    • Mix one part vinegar with two parts warm water in a basin or foot bath. For example, if you use 1 cup of vinegar, mix it with 2 cups of warm water. I tend to buy large containers of white vinegar so I can really soak my feet. The vinegar is also really useful for household cleaning so it always gets used up.
  2. Soak Your Feet
    • When you are ready place your feet in the vinegar and water mixture. Soak your feet for about 15-20 minutes. The vinegar will help to soften the hard, dry skin on your heels.
  3. Exfoliate
    • After soaking your feet start to gently scrub your heels with a pumice stone or foot scrubber. This helps to remove the softened dead skin. Be gentle to avoid causing any cuts or irritation. I tend to use my Diamancel foot file which is probably the more effective foot file I have ever owned.
  4. Rinse and Dry
    • Finally rinse your feet with clean water and pat them dry with a towel.
  5. Moisturize
  6. Seal in Moisture
    • For best results, put on a pair of socks after applying the moisturizer. This helps to lock in the moisture and allows the lotion to sink deeper into the skin. I tend to leave mine on overnight.

 

How Often Should You Follow These Steps?

If your feet are really dry and cracked then you really need to do this every day until you start to see an improvement in how your heels look.

Once your heels are healed then do this once or twice a week to maintain the results.

The Benefits of Using Vinegar in a Foot Soak

There are a number of reasons why I like using vinegar in a foot soak.

  • Softens Skin: Vinegar helps to soften and loosen dead skin cells, making it easier to exfoliate.
  • Antibacterial Properties: Vinegar has natural antibacterial properties that can help prevent infections in cracked skin.
  • Balances pH: Vinegar helps to restore the natural pH balance of the skin, promoting healthier skin.
  • It’s Cheap: Vinegar is a really inexpensive way of helping a problem with dry cracked skin.

How To Prevent Cracked Heels

Whilst a vinegar foot soak is a great way to improve your cracked heels it would obviously be better if you never got them in the first place. Here’s why you get them and some steps you can take to prevent them.

How To Clean Toe and Foot Marks From Sandals – 8 Easy Tips

If there is one thing that gives me the ick it is seeing the dirty inside of sandals. Nobody wants to see sweat and grime ground into a sandals footbed as it looks disgusting. So I’m going to show you how to clean toe and foot marks from sandals using either professional products or things that you already have in your home.

As with all of my tips please test them on a small inconspicuous area of your sandals first. You don’t want to ruin expensive footwear so try a test and if that works then you can move on to the rest of your sandals.

This post may contain affiliate links which means that we get a commission if you choose to make a purchase through the link. This is at no cost to you. Please read our disclosure page for more information.

Cleaning Your Sandals Footbed

Cleaning toe and foot marks from sandals can help keep them looking fresh and extend their lifespan. Here are ten effective methods for cleaning these marks and making your sandals look fresh and new again.

The Professional Product

I’m going to start by recommending my number one go to product when it comes to tough jobs like this and that is Jason Markk’s Shoe Cleaner.

This remarkable foaming cleaner packs a powerful punch and I’ve used it on everything from sneakers to suede shoes. This is because it is gentle enough to handle most fabrics without ruining them.

This cleaner needs no water which is great because saturating shoes with liquid isn’t usually great for helping them keep their shape or integrity. Instead you spray the cleaner on to the brush provided and work the foam into the footbed in a circular motion. Then wipe off any excess with a microfibre cloth and allow to dry.

Professional shoe cleaning products are usually my preference when it comes to cleaning foot and toe marks off sandals because they are less likely to damage your shoes. However there are plenty of DIY products which you can use which I’ll talk about next.

 

Mild Laundry Detergent Method

The next method was one that I used with quite good success on a pair of old Birkenstock sandals. As you can see there is a marked difference between the two sandals after one had been cleaned. I used this detergent method for the footbed and a magic eraser for the white leather.

All you need for this is a small amount of mild laundry detergent mixed with warm water.

I used a mid to soft brush to scrub the marks off with the mixture. If you are doing this try and be careful with the amount of water you are using as if you saturate your shoes you could ruin them.

Once I had got off most of the stains I wiped any excess product off with a wet cloth and allowed them to dry.

Laundry detergent works well as it can break down stains and be gentle on fabrics.

how to clean toe and foot marks from sandals

Baking Soda and Water Paste

Baking soda is another useful product that I used for all kinds of jobs around the house.

To clean your sandals footbed mix the baking soda with water to form a paste (it should never be runny). Then apply the paste to the marks with a toothbrush and scrub them gently.

Make sure you wipe off as much excess product as you can when you have finished and rub with a wet cloth before allowing them to dry.

Baking soda acts as a mild abrasive, removing stains without damaging the material.

 

Vinegar and Water Solution

You might think that vinegar would make your shoes and sandals smell but actually the odor evaporates relatively quickly so it is another product to have in your cleaning arsenal.

I mix equal parts of vinegar and cold water and dip my brush into the mixture and start scrubbing the footbed until the marks are gone.

I use a clean wet cloth to remove as much of the vinegar as I can and then allow my sandals to dry.

What is great about vinegar is that it is a natural disinfectant and deodorizer. So it doesn’t just remove the dirt but any smells as well/

Clean Your Sandals Footbed with Dish Soap and Water

Good old washing up liquid can be used as well if you are looking for a cheap and quick way to remove those foot and toe marks from your sandals.

Just like the washing detergent you only need to add a few drops to warm water and start scrubbing the marks. As with all the previous methods wipe the excess off with water and a cloth.

Dish soap breaks down oils and dirt, making it easier to clean the sandals.

Using Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is something I have used in the past to remove mold from leather shoes and furniture but it can also be used for cleaning the footbed of your shoes.

Just dab a cotton ball or cloth with rubbing alcohol and start to rub it over the marks to remove stains and grimes.

Rubbing alcohol is something that you can allow to dry naturally as it evaporates quickly.

 

Try a Magic Eraser

I love my magic erasers as they are so useful to have around the house. I’ve use them from cleaning marks off walls and furniture but you can also use them on certain shoe footbeds.

All you need to do is wet the eraser and then start to scrub at the marks and the dirt should start to come off.

As these erasers are relatively gentle you shouldn’t find that they cause any damage to your shoes but as with all my methods try a small test patch first.

Use Hydrogen Peroxide

Finally last but not least you can also use Hydrogen Peroxide for cleaning foot and toe marks off sandals.

Just be aware that hydrogen peroxide has bleaching properties so it may change the color of the footbed in some circumstances.

To use the produce just apply it to a cloth or cotton ball and scrub the problem areas. When the marks have gone just wipe the area with a clean cloth and water to remove any left over product and allow it to dry naturally.

*This site is owned and operated by Chicpedi.com. Chicpedi.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

10 Shockingly Simple Tips for Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief

If you suffer from plantar fasciitis you know just how painful it can be when you try and stand on your food after sitting down. I’ve had the condition on and off for the past few years and experimented with a number of different ways to stop it and there are some simple things you can do at home that make a difference. Here are my top tips for plantar fasciitis pain relief you can use at home to stop the discomfort.

This post may contain affiliate links which means that we get a commission if you choose to make a purchase through the link. This is at no cost to you. Please read our disclosure page for more information.

Plantar Fasciitis Stretching Exercises

Stretching exercises are one of the first things I do when I am experiencing a plantar fasciitis flare up. They are an easy way to manage and alleviate pain.

Don’t get lazy by forgetting to do them. They really do make a difference when they are done regularly.

My two favorite stretches are:

Calf Stretch on Stairs

Steps:

  1. Stand on a Step: Stand on the edge of a stair with the balls of your feet on the step and your heels hanging off.
  2. Lower Your Heels: Slowly lower your heels down below the level of the step until you feel a stretch in your calf muscles.
  3. Hold the Stretch: Hold this position for 15-30 seconds.
  4. Raise Back Up: Slowly raise your heels back to the starting position.
  5. Repeat: Perform this stretch 2-3 times.

Benefits:

This stretch helps loosen the calf muscles and Achilles tendon, which can reduce tension on the plantar fascia.

I usually stand on the bottom step of the stairs so there is little chance of me falling and hurting myself!

2. Towel Stretch

Steps:

  1. Sit Down: Sit on the floor with your legs stretched out in front of you.
  2. Use a Towel: Loop a towel or a resistance band around the ball of your foot.
  3. Pull the Towel: Gently pull the towel towards you, keeping your knee straight, until you feel a stretch along the bottom of your foot and the back of your leg.
  4. Hold the Stretch: Hold this position for 15-30 seconds.
  5. Switch Feet: Repeat on the other foot.
  6. Repeat: Perform this stretch 2-3 times on each foot.

Benefits:

This stretch targets the plantar fascia directly, as well as the Achilles tendon and calf muscles.

I like this stretch as it isn’t difficult to do and the towel makes things easier because I don’t have the best range of movement in my legs.

Using Ice To Help Reduce Inflammation

I am a big fan of cold therapy which simply means applying ice to the problem area to reduce inflammation and pain.

Once upon a time I used to have an ice pack that I wrapped in a cloth that I would place around my foot and then I discovered ice slippers.

These are brilliant because you place them in the freezer in a plastic bag and get them out when you need them. Just slip them on your feet and allow the cold to help with the inflammation.

As they are reusable you can use them time and time again. Plus they help with my tendonitis as well so they were a great purchase.

 

 

Wearing Orthotics For Plantar Fasciitis Relief

I have a couple of tips about footwear and my first involves adding orthotics to my shoes.

Part of the reason I have plantar fasciitis is because I have flat feet and need arch support. However not all shoes have it so in order to solve the problem I started to wear orthotic inserts to help.

There is no need to buy bespoke inserts as now you can get over the counter insoles that will help distribute pressure more evening across your feet.

Choose whole orthotic inserts like these Powerstep ones when you have the space in your shoes otherwise wear a half insert as they still help.

 

Use Massage Therapy

Massaging the bottom of your feet supposedly breaks up any adhesions and helps to reduce pain.

As I have limited mobility to do this myself following a hip operation I found the easiest solution was to get a foot roller.

You can buy smaller rollers for under your foot but I found they had a tendency to slip and move. This roller stays in one place and I just put it under my desk and use it throughout the day.

 

Wear a Night Splint

I have to say this night splint for plantar fasciitis is probably my least favorite method to solve the problem but sometimes I revert to it if I’m getting bad foot pain in the morning.

The idea with a night splint is that you keep your foot in a dorsiflexed position overnight which stretches the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon while you sleep.

I don’t particularly like things on my feet in bed unless it is really cold but this method does help so it makes my list of plantar fasciitis pain relief tips.

 

 

Using an Epsom Salt Soak

What are the benefits of soaking your feet in Epsom salt?  Well I have a whole post dedicated to why this is a great solution for your foot health that you can read.

Soaking your feet in warm water with Epsom salt can help relax muscles and reduce pain. Soak your feet for 15-20 minutes once a day if you have any pain and it can really make a difference plus it is so relaxing.

You can use plain Epsom salt but I like to choose salts like these with added benefits such as tea tree oil for or lavender.

 

 

Choosing the Right Footwear for Plantar Fasciitis

This next tip was a real game changer for me and made a huge difference to my foot pain.

I found out that wearing the right shoes made a big difference and helped alleviate pressure on my feet lessening pain.

I need shoes with great arch support and a cushioned sole and found that Vionic were the brand that suited my feet the best.

They do a whole range of shoes, boots and sneakers to help foot pain and I can’t stress enough how much they revolutionised my foot pain.

I’m partial to Vionic ballet flats but they have a large range of other footwear to choose from as well.

Eating Anti-inflammatory Foods

My next two tips are based around food and diet because you are what you eat as they say.

Anti-inflammatory foods are definitely something that you should incorporate into your diet for your health.

Reduce inflammation by eating less processed foot and add tumeric, ginger and omega-3 fatty acids so that you are less likely to get foot pain.

This isn’t obviously a fast approach but over time it will make a difference.

Weight Management

You should also try and manage your weight.

The fact is that if you are overweight you are putting more pressure on your feet. By eating a balanced diet and taking regular exercise you can drop a few pounds which can take some of this pressure off your feet.

I know this one isn’t easy and I would say I am a work in progress when it comes to this!

Take Time To Rest

Finally you need to rest your feet if you want them to heal if you have plantar fasciitis pain relief.

I know my sister in law is a big runner and when she gets a flare up she knows that her running has to take a back seat so that she allows the inflammation to subside.

The temptation may be to keep going but it will only make your problem worse.

So there you have it my top ten tips to help with discomfort from plantar fasciitis. All of them are relatively easy to implement (apart from the weight loss) so try and use some of my suggestions to see how you get on.

Remember if the problem persists or gets worse make sure you see a doctor or podiatrist for some extra advice.

*This site is owned and operated by Chicpedi.com. Chicpedi.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Baking Soda and Vinegar Foot Soak: Benefits and Instructions

Believe it or not you don’t always have to use expensive foot products to get results. Some of my favorite ways of removing rough dead skin and keeping my feet odor free are with ordinary household products. This baking soda and vinegar foot soak is a perfect example of how to get your feet summer ready without spending a fortune. In fact you probably have everything you already need in your pantry.

Whilst some people like the idea of a dry pedicure it has never really done it for me. I like to soak my feet to get rid of dry dead skin and calluses as I find it makes things much easier.

This post may contain affiliate links which means that we get a commission if you choose to make a purchase through the link. This is at no cost to you. Please read our disclosure page for more information.

How to Make a Baking Soda and Vinegar Foot Soak

Making your own DIY baking soda and vinegar couldn’t be easier all you need are the following:

Ingredients:

 

 

To Make the Foot Bath

Fill your foot bath with warm water. It doesn’t need to be super hot otherwise you will just feel uncomfortable.

Add the 1/2 cup of baking soda and stir into the water until it is dissolved.

Then slowing add the 1/2 cup of vinegar into the water. Watch for the fizz which is my favorite bit and then when it has settled down stir the water with your hand to mix everything in.

I then add a few drops of essential oils into the foot bath. If you have foot fungus opt for tea tree oil, if you want relaxation (which is my favorite) use lavender or use peppermint oil to refresh your feet and help foot odor.

I tend to soak my feet for at least 20 minutes then I pat them dry before exfoliating further with a good foot file.

Then slather your feet in a great foot lotion to help soften them further.

For the best results use the soak a couple of times a week. Remember to keep consistent as that really helps to improve your foot health.

 

 

The Benefits of a Homemade Foot Soak To Remove Dead Skin

Baking soda and vinegar foot soaks are popular home remedies known for their antifungal, antibacterial, and exfoliating properties. These soaks can help soothe and cleanse feet, reduce odor, and combat fungal infections.

Here is why a baking soda and vinegar foot soak is something you should add to your foot health regime so that you keep your feet in tip top condition.

Soaking Feet in Baking Soda For Fungus Problems

So why use baking soda in the soak? Well it is a really good home remedy for treating foot fungus for a number of reasons:

Antifungal Properties

Baking soda has natural antifungal properties that help in fighting off the fungi responsible for infections such as athlete’s foot and toenail fungus. It disrupts the environment that fungi thrive in, making it difficult for them to grow and spread.

pH Balance

Baking soda helps balance the pH level of the skin. Fungi prefer acidic environments, and baking soda’s alkaline nature can neutralize acidity, creating an inhospitable environment for fungal growth. This pH balancing action can prevent the spread of the infection and promote healing.

It’s Great For Exfoliation

When used in a foot soak or as a paste, baking soda acts as a gentle exfoliant. It helps remove dead skin cells, which can harbor fungi and bacteria, making it easier for antifungal treatments to penetrate and be more effective. Exfoliating the skin also helps in reducing the build-up of hard, thickened skin that often accompanies fungal infections.

It Neutralizes Odors

I talk alot about using products like Baking Soda to get the smells out of footwear quickly and easily. When you shake the powder in your shoes and leave it overnight those smells are neutralized and your shoes don’t smell funky anymore.

However you don’t just use it in shoes as it can be also great when it is used in a foot soak as well. By balancing those pH levels and stopping bacteria in its tracks those bad smells are no more.

It’s Exfoliating

People often forget that it can help to exfoliate your feet as well.

When it is in your foot soak it can help to get rid of old dead skin which means that your feet will be softer and smoother.

I tend to use the baking soda as the first step of exfoliation and then follow up with my Diamancel foot file after the foot soak for better results. Over the years I’ve tried every type of foot file and pumice stone but nothing comes close to this file for really removing old dry skin.

 

Why Vinegar Works Well in a Foot Soak

There are two types of vinegar that work well in foot soaks and they are apple cider vinegar or white vinegar. I prefer the former but that is just my preference.

Just remember that if you have a blister or any form or cut or would on your feet you shouldn’t attempt this as it will sting!

Vinegar in a foot soak really compliments baking soda as they do very similar jobs.

Antifungal and Antibacterial:

Vinegar is acidic and that means it can help to kill fungus and bacteria which are responsible for problems like athlete’s foot.

Make sure you have your feet in the soak for at least 20 minutes to allow the vinegar to do its job and penetrate your skin to get the full benefits.

The Vinegar Eliminates Odors

Just like baking soda you’ll find that vinegar also neutalizes odors.

I sometimes use a vinegar spray inside some shoes to remove smells so this is similar.

If you have sweaty feet this is why this type of soak makes sense.

It Softens Your Skin

Most people would never think of using vinegar to soften skin or help soften rough calluses and dry patches but it actually works really well.

This is because it is acidic and that acidity causes it to remove dead skin cells.

Your Circulation Can Be Improved

It can also help to improve circulation to your feet which is good if you suffer from foot health issues like swelling.

Getting your blood circulating well to your feet is important for healing and your foot health.

Combine the Two Products For Great Results

A baking soda and vinegar foot soak combines the powerful properties of these two products together so that you get a better result.

The great thing about this foot soak is that is is really easy to make at home because no difficult ingredients are required.

See how you get on with doing this regularly and hopefully your feet will be soft and odor free with regular use.

*This site is owned and operated by Chicpedi.com. Chicpedi.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

How To Use Tea Tree Oil For Toenail Fungus

There are plenty of essential oils that I have already written about that are great for toenail fungus. Some of my favorites are Manuka Oil, Coconut Oil and Neem oil but today I want to talk about how to use Tea Tree Oil For Toenail Fungus.

Tea tree oil is a popular natural remedy for toenail fungus due to its antifungal and antiseptic properties plus I tend to have some in the house to help with insect bites. Here’s how you can use it effectively to get rid of your toenail fungus by using it at home.

This post may contain affiliate links which means that we get a commission if you choose to make a purchase through the link. This is at no cost to you. Please read our disclosure page for more information.

Best Tea Tree Oil For Toenail Fungus

Before I start however it is worth knowing that not all Tea Tree Oils are made equal. When you are looking for something to treat toenail fungus it’s important to select a high-quality product to make sure it is effective and safe. This First Botany Tea Tree Oil would fit the bill.

So before you buy a brand consider these things first:

  1. Purity:
    • Ensure the tea tree oil is 100% pure and free from additives or synthetic ingredients.
  2. Therapeutic Grade:
    • Look for oils labeled as “therapeutic grade,” indicating they are suitable for medicinal use.
  3. Source:
    • Opt for tea tree oil sourced from Australia, where the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) is native and the oil is known to be of high quality.
  4. Extraction Method:
    • Steam distillation is the preferred method of extraction, preserving the oil’s natural properties.
  5. Brand Reputation:
    • Choose products from reputable brands known for their quality and purity.

 

 

Once you have the best tea tree oil you then need to gather the following:

Materials Needed:

  • A Carrier oil (e.g., olive oil, coconut oil)
  • Cotton balls or swabs
  • Nail file or emery board
  • Soap and water

Can I Put Tea Tree Oil Directly On My Nails?

Yes, you can apply tea tree oil directly to your nails, but it’s important to do so with caution due to the oil’s potency.

I am going to suggest you dilute it with a carrier oil but if you plan to use it neat it is safer to use a patch test first.

You can do this by applying a small amount of diluted tea tree oil to a small area of skin and wait 24 hours. If there’s no irritation, it should be safe to use.

Step-by-Step Instructions To Use Tea Tree Oil For Toenail Fugus

1. Preparation

  • Clean Your Feet: Wash your feet thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them completely, as fungi thrive in moist environments.
  • Trim and File: Trim your toenails straight across and file them to remove any dead or infected parts. Be sure to clean under the nail as well.

This vital preparation is important for your treatment to be effective so don’t try and skip it.

2. Dilution

  • Mixing with Carrier Oil: Pure tea tree oil can be potent and may cause skin irritation. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil. A common ratio is 1-2 drops of tea tree oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. This helps to dilute the tea tree oil while maintaining its effectiveness.

I personally prefer to use a carrier oil with tea tree oil as I have sensitive skin and I want to try and avoid any allergic reactions. My favourites tend to be coconut oil or jojoba oil.

 

 

3. Application

  • Direct Application: Soak a cotton ball or swab in the tea tree oil mixture. Apply it directly to the affected toenail and surrounding skin. Be sure to cover the entire nail, including the underside and the cuticle area.
  • Let It Soak: Allow the oil to soak into the nail and skin for at least 10-15 minutes. Avoid washing it off immediately.
  • Massage Gently: Gently massage the oil into the nail and surrounding area to ensure deeper penetration.

4. Repetition

  • Daily Routine: Apply the tea tree oil mixture twice daily – once in the morning and once before bedtime. Consistency is key for effective treatment.

I can’t stress enough how important it is to follow the routine regularly and not skip days as otherwise the regime will be less effective.

5. Observation and Adjustments

  • Monitor Progress: Keep an eye on the condition of your toenail. It may take several weeks to months to see noticeable improvement, as toenail fungus can be stubborn.
  • Adjust if Necessary: If you experience skin irritation or if the condition worsens, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

You can of course try some of the other essential oils I have mentioned for toenail fungus if you can’t see any results with tea tee oil. You can also try a Toenail Fungus Light Device to solve the problem.

If the problem is persistent and doesn’t seem to be improving then arrange to see your GP or podiatrist.

 

Tea Tree Oil For Onycholysis

Using tea tree oil for toenail fungus can be a natural way to treat the problem without using harsh chemicals. However even if you have a successful treatment with tea tree oil you need to prevent the problem for returning.

So in the future make sure you do the following to look after your foot health:

  • Prevent Moisture: Keep your feet dry and well-ventilated. Change socks regularly and avoid wearing damp shoes.
  • Hygiene: Disinfect your nail tools after each use to prevent spreading the fungus.
  • Footwear: Wear breathable footwear and avoid walking barefoot in communal areas such as locker rooms and swimming pools.

*This site is owned and operated by Chicpedi.com. Chicpedi.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The 5 Best Essential Oils For Swollen Feet and Ankles

Do you ever get swollen feet and ankles? If you sit for too long, stand up for too long are overweight or pregnant then this is a relatively common occurrence. Plus I tend to get it on long haul flights and it is really uncomfortable. So what can you do about it? Well here are some of the best essential oils for swollen feet and ankles.

Using the right essential oils can make a big difference as they are able to reduce inflammation and help to improve your circulation which can alleviate the problem.

I’ll walk you through some of the best that work for swollen legs and feet so you can start helping to reduce any edema.

This post may contain affiliate links which means that we get a commission if you choose to make a purchase through the link. This is at no cost to you. Please read our disclosure page for more information.

The Best Essential Oils for Circulation and Swelling

Peppermint Oil

There is a good reason why peppermint oil is in so many foot products and that is because it is cooling and relaxing which is great for tired feet.

However that isn’t all it does. It also has anti-inflammatory properties which can help to reduce any discomfort and can also help to reduce swelling. It is also safe to use if you are pregnant.

It’s relatively easy to use. Just dilute a few drops into a carrier oil such as jojoba oil (my personal favorite) and start to massage the product into the areas where you have a problem. I use the following dilution ratio.

    • Essential Oil: 1 drop of peppermint oil
    • Carrier Oil: 1 teaspoon (5 mL) of carrier oil

I then tend to put my feet up on a leg elevation pillow so that I can increase its ability to reduce swelling.

 

 

Lavender Oil

My next favorite alternative oil is Lavender because I absolutely love the smell but I know it isn’t for everyone.

This is another great oil for reducing swelling and helping to reduce inflammation. It is also a great oil for relaxation which is perfect to use at the end of a long day.

Again it is safe to use if you are pregnant.

The dilution ratios are the same as for peppermint and follow the same routine of massaging into the feet and ankles before lying back and raising your feet.

You can also add the oil to a foot bath as well if that is what you prefer.

 

 

Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil is another great product for reducing swelling and helping to improve your blood circulation. It is anti-inflammatory and also has analgesic properties.

The jury is out as to whether you should use this oil if you are pregnant so I would suggest you try and avoid it.

Again you can use the same ratios for dilution as I mentioned before.

 

 

Ginger Oil

Whilst many essential oils for your feet tend to be cool and zingy the opposite is the case with ginger oil which tends to have a warming effect instead.

Ginger oil is great for reducing swelling and helping circulation and is great for someone who prefers heat instead of cold.

The same dilution ratios work if you are using it to apply to your skin or alternatively you can add a few drops to a foot bath.

Ginger oil is safe to use if you are pregnant.

 

 

Cypress Oil

Finally the last of my top 5 is Cypress oil which is great at helping circulation and reducing fluid retention. This is why it is a great product for swollen feet and ankles.

The 1% dilution ration works as before if you are massaging this on to your feet and ankles.

Cypress oil is considered safe to use if you are pregnant.

 

 

Reasons to Use Essential Oils for Swollen Feet and Ankles

There are a number of great reasons why essential oils for swollen feet and ankles are worth using.

  • Natural Remedy: Essential oils provide a natural alternative to chemical-based treatments, reducing the risk of side effects.
  • Anti-Inflammatory: Many essential oils have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
  • Improved Circulation: Essential oils like eucalyptus can improve blood circulation, helping to alleviate swelling.
  • Pain Relief: Oils such as peppermint and ginger provide analgesic effects, reducing pain associated with swelling.
  • Relaxation: Oils like lavender promote relaxation, which can help reduce stress-related swelling.

Using Essential Oils Safely

  • Always dilute essential oils before applying them to the skin.
  • Avoid applying oils near sensitive areas such as the eyes.
  • If you are pregnant, nursing, or have sensitive skin, consult with a healthcare provider before using essential oils (it is always good to be safe and check).
  • Discontinue using them if you experience skin irritation or an allergic reaction.

Essential oils for swollen feet and ankles can make a difference and are a great way to help discomfort. Whilst I have mentioned my top five favorite oils there are many others that you can also use if you want to explore the world of essential oils.

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