Causes of Cracked Heels
Cracked heels can be associated with skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
Prolonged running, walking, or standing on hard surfaces may contribute to heel cracks.
Medical conditions like diabetes, thyroid disorders, and hormonal imbalances can also lead to cracked heels.
Dehydration or a diet low in healthy fats may be contributing factors.
Excessive use of detergents, cosmetics, or skin allergens may worsen the condition.
Home Remedies for Cracked Heels
Mix a handful of rice flour with a few teaspoons of honey and apple cider vinegar to make a thick paste. Apply it to the heels for exfoliation.
Soak your feet in lukewarm water, pat them dry, then apply aloe vera gel. Wear socks overnight for better absorption.
Combine two cups of milk with one cup of honey (adjust quantities as needed while maintaining the ratio). Pour into a tub and soak your feet for 10 minutes while gently massaging. Rinse with lukewarm water.
Make a paste using crushed neem leaves and three teaspoons of turmeric powder with a little water. Apply to the feet for 30 minutes, then rinse off.
Rub fresh lemon juice over the cracked areas of your feet.
Apply a paste made from nutmeg (jaiphal) to the affected areas.
Use clarified butter (ghee) mixed with pipal tree extract (Ficus religiosa) on the cracks to promote healing.
Internally, consuming milk, ghee, and other healthy fats can support skin repair.
Eat fruits such as bananas, sapodilla, papaya, amla, raisins, and dry fruits for nourishment.
Avoid excessive intake of sour, salty, spicy, and processed bakery foods.
Always wash your feet after returning from outside to remove dirt and pollutants.
Wear cotton socks and appropriate footwear to protect your feet.
Prepare a decoction by boiling chopped bark from the pipal and banyan trees in water (8 parts water to 1 part bark), reducing it to one-fourth. Washing cracked heels with this medicated water can promote healing.
Applying castor oil mixed with neem paste is also effective.
Soaking feet in warm water with baking soda (soda bicarb) can soften the skin and aid in healing.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Cracked Heels
Panchakarma therapy may be beneficial depending on the individual's condition and the severity of the problem.
Abhyanga (therapeutic massage) on the affected areas can help soothe and repair cracked heels.
When to Consult a Doctor
Seek medical advice if the cracks start bleeding, persist beyond 10-15 days, or continue to worsen.
For diabetic patients, consulting a physician is crucial, as they are more prone to foot infections.
Prompt medical attention is recommended in cases of pus formation or severe symptoms.
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