Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Natural Remedy for Fungal Foot Infections and Athlete’s Foot
Why is it important to treat foot infections naturally?
Fungal infections of the feet, including athlete’s foot (Tinea pedis), are an increasingly common dermatological problem in the modern world. They appear in athletes, working people, the elderly, but also children. Their spread is encouraged by wearing closed shoes, sweating, poor hygiene, but also weakened immunity.
Although chemical antifungals are often used for treatment, an increasing number of people are turning to natural, safe and long-term sustainable solutions. One of the most effective herbal remedies in the fight against fungal skin infections is calendula (Calendula officinalis) – a plant whose healing properties have been confirmed for centuries.
What is athlete’s foot and what are the symptoms?
Athlete’s foot is a superficial fungal infection of the skin of the foot, most often caused by fungi of the genus Trichophyton rubrum. The infection begins between the toes and can spread to the nails and the entire foot.
Typical symptoms include:
- Intense itching, especially between the fingers
- Redness, flaking and cracked skin
- The appearance of blisters or sores
- Unpleasant foot odor
- Thickened, rough skin on the soles of the feet
The infection is highly contagious and is transmitted through contact with contaminated surfaces – showers, swimming pools, sports halls and footwear.
Calendula – a natural antifungal agent from nature
Botanical profile and medicinal properties
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is an annual plant from the Asteraceae family, known for its orange-yellow flowers and a wide range of medicinal properties. In folk and clinical phytotherapy, it is used for:
- treatment of wounds and burns,
- skin regeneration,
- relieving skin inflammation,
- and as a powerful natural antifungal and antibacterial remedy.
Active substances in calendula:
- Flavonoids (quercetin, rutin): have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects
- Carotenoids (lutein, zeaxanthin): protect skin cells
- Saponins and triterpenoids: show antifungal properties
- Essential oils: soothe irritated skin
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids: nourish the epidermis and promote tissue renewal
The combination of these compounds makes calendula extremely effective against fungi that cause foot infections, but also against bacterial infections that often accompany fungal processes.
The mechanism of action of calendula in fungal infections
- Reduces inflammation and redness – inhibits inflammatory cytokines
- Accelerates epithelialization and healing – stimulates fibroblasts and keratinocytes
- It has an antimicrobial effect – it works against fungi and bacteria
- Relieves symptoms – such as itching, burning and peeling
- Restores the damaged skin barrier – with natural lipids and phytonutrients
Clinical studies confirm that calendula extracts show efficacy against dermatophytes, including Trichophyton and Candida albicans, making it an excellent choice for natural treatment.
Ways to use calendula in the treatment of fungal infections of the feet
Calendula can be used topically and systemically, depending on the form of the preparation. We bring proven recipes and instructions for application.
1. Calendula tea for compresses and rinses
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons dried calendula flowers
- 250 ml boiling water
Preparation:
- Pour boiling water over the calendula.
- Cover and let sit for 15 minutes.
- Strain and cool.
Application:
- Soak sterile gauze in tea and place on the affected areas.
- Hold for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times a day.
👉 It has a soothing effect, reduces redness, itching and burning.
2. Calendula ointment – a store-bought and homemade option
Purchased ointment:
- Available in pharmacies and herbal drugstores.
- Ideal if it contains a standardized calendula extract based on cold-pressed oils.
Homemade ointment – recipe:
Ingredients:
- 50 g dried calendula flowers
- 200 ml olive or almond oil
- 20 g beeswax
Preparation:
- Pour oil over the flowers and heat over steam for 1–2 hours.
- Strain and add wax.
- Pour into sterile containers and cool.
Use:
- Apply 2 times a day to clean, dry feet.
- Pay special attention to the spaces between the fingers.
3. Calendula foot bath
Ingredients:
- 3–4 handfuls of dried calendula flowers
- 5 liters of hot water
Use:
- Soak the flowers in water and let them sit for 15 minutes.
- Immerse your feet for 15–20 minutes.
- Repeat daily until the symptoms disappear.
👉 An excellent method for relieving inflammation and disinfecting the entire foot.
4. Calendula extract capsules
For additional immunity and systematic support in fungal infections, herbal capsules with calendula concentrate are also available. Consult a phytotherapist or doctor before use.
Who can use calendula?
Calendula is extremely safe and can be used with:
- Adults and the elderly
- Children (in diluted preparations)
- Sensitive and allergy-prone skin
- People who are intolerant to pharmaceutical antifungals
There are no known side effects when applied externally, making it suitable for long-term use.
MarioLAB Clinic – Individual Approach to Skin Problems
If you suffer from:
- Persistent fungal infections
- Athlete’s foot that returns
- Skin diseases such as rosacea, psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis
👨⚕️ Contact the MarioLAB Center for Natural Medicine.
📞 Contact:
+385 98 9179 200
📍 Zagreb, Croatia
📋 Offer:
- One-on-one consultations (by phone or face)
- Diagnostics and therapy with natural preparations
- Diet plan to strengthen the skin and immunity
Additional Resources
📘 Want to learn more about natural remedies?
➡️ Check out our selection of books:
https://mariolab.hr/proizvodi/knjige/tiskana-izdanja-knjiga/
🎥 Watch the video accompanying this article and discover additional recipes and tips.
Conclusion: Calendula – the guardian of your skin’s health
Calendula is a proven effective, safe and affordable natural remedy against fungal infections of the feet. Its action is not only superficial – it deeply regenerates the skin, reduces inflammation and prevents reinfections.
With regular use of tea, ointments and baths, you can say goodbye to fungi forever – without chemicals, without harmful consequences, and with complete trust in nature.