Natural Health: What can I do about the cracked skin on my feet? 

Plus: natural ways to deal with Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Pic: iStock

The skin on the soles of my feet has started to crack. I’m using a salve but it’s not making a difference. I shower daily and make sure to dry my feet thoroughly. What would you suggest?

Whenever skin shows signs of excessive dryness, it is crucial to ensure you are maintaining internal hydration levels and getting enough nourishing fats through your diet.

Regular showering is fine, but unless your feet are physically dirty, it is important to refrain from specifically washing or scrubbing them when cracked — a rinse while showering should be sufficient.

I would avoid body care products containing colours, perfumes, or harsh detergent ingredients, including soaps, body wash, and lotions. These can be very drying and may even trigger a dermatitis reaction.

Thyroid conditions can contribute to dry skin issues, so if you suspect this, please see your doctor to diagnose or rule it out as a potential cause.

If you have been prescribed any medications or take over-the-counter medicines regularly, double-check they don’t cause skin cracking, flaking, or excessive dryness as a side effect.

As far as your salve is concerned, keep using it if it has a plant butter base (cocoa, shea, mango) together with beeswax. Natural butters and waxes will help prevent new cracks from forming and help heal existing cracks. If it is petroleum-based, then it could be contributing to your problem.

You may need to reapply the salve two to three times daily with a fresh pair of cotton or woollen socks (bamboo also works well). Make sure you apply a generous layer each time. This may feel a little uncomfortable, but it will help to speed up the healing process.

Other hero ingredients to look for in a foot salve include calendula, hypericum, lavender, chamomile, and peppermint.

I was diagnosed almost two years ago with Guillain-Barre Syndrome. I radically changed my diet, cut back on work, and have nearly recovered. However, I still get very tired at the end of the day. Is there a natural remedy I could take?

Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is a relatively rare autoimmune disorder where the immune system effectively attacks the peripheral nervous system, resulting in muscle weakness, numbness, and, in severe cases, paralysis. I’m glad you have made significant progress through diet and lifestyle changes.

Herbal remedies have gained attention for their potential to alleviate GBS symptoms. Herbs such as turmeric, ginger, and boswellia have anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce nerve inflammation associated with GBS. Additionally, vitamin supplementation, particularly vitamins C, B12, and D3, can support nerve health and immune function, aiding the body’s natural healing processes.

Acupuncture, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) treatment, involves stimulating specific points on the body to promote healing through the energetic pathways within the fascia. Studies suggest that acupuncture can help improve nerve function and reduce pain associated with neurological disorders like GBS.

Physical therapy also focuses on improving muscle strength, flexibility, and mobility through targeted exercises and stretches.

Stress triggers inflammation and weakens the immune system. So consider stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, breathwork, and mindfulness exercises, which can help ease GBS symptoms.

• If you have a question for Megan Sheppard please send it to [e-mail]
• NOTE: The information contained in this column is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a doctor.