Corns are thick, hardened layers of skin that develop as a result of friction and pressure, typically on the feet. While they can be painful and uncomfortable, there are several natural home remedies that can help soothe and treat corns. Here’s a guide to some effective home treatments you can try.
1. Warm Water Soak
Soaking your feet in warm, soapy water can soften corns and make them easier to remove.
How to Use:
• Fill a basin with warm water and add a few drops of mild soap.
• Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes.
• Gently scrub the corn with a pumice stone to remove dead skin.
• Pat your feet dry and apply a moisturizing lotion.
2. Pumice Stone
A pumice stone is a natural exfoliator that can help reduce the size of corns by removing dead skin cells.
How to Use:
• After soaking your feet, gently rub the pumice stone on the corn in a circular or sideways motion.
• Be careful not to remove too much skin to avoid bleeding and infection.
• Rinse your feet and apply a moisturizer.
3. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar’s acidic nature can help soften corns and make them easier to remove.
How to Use:
• Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and place it on the corn.
• Secure it with a bandage and leave it on for a few hours or overnight.
• Gently scrub the softened corn with a pumice stone.
• Repeat daily until the corn is gone.
4. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a natural exfoliant that can help remove dead skin and reduce corns.
How to Use:
• Add 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda to a basin of warm water.
• Soak your feet for 10-15 minutes.
• Gently scrub the corn with a pumice stone.
• Rinse and moisturize your feet.
5. Lemon Juice
The citric acid in lemon juice can help dissolve the hardened skin of corns.
How to Use:
• Apply fresh lemon juice directly to the corn.
• Allow it to dry before putting on socks or shoes.
• Repeat several times a day until the corn diminishes.
6. Garlic
Garlic has natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat corns.
How to Use:
• Crush a garlic clove and mix it with a little olive oil to form a paste.
• Apply the paste to the corn and cover it with a bandage.
• Leave it on overnight and wash off in the morning.
• Repeat daily until the corn is gone.
7. Castor Oil
Castor oil is known for its moisturizing properties and can help soften corns.
How to Use:
• Apply a few drops of castor oil directly to the corn.
• Cover it with a bandage and leave it on for a few hours or overnight.
• Repeat daily to help soften and reduce the corn.
8. Onion
Onions have acidic properties that can help break down corns.
How to Use:
• Cut a slice of onion and place it on the corn.
• Secure it with a bandage and leave it on overnight.
• Wash off in the morning and repeat until the corn is reduced.
Prevention Tips
While these remedies can help treat corns, preventing them is the best approach. Here are some tips to avoid developing corns:
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: Choose shoes that fit well and provide enough room for your toes.
• Use Protective Pads: Cushioning pads can reduce friction and pressure on vulnerable areas.
• Keep Feet Dry: Moisture can lead to friction, so keep your feet dry and change socks regularly.
• Trim Your Toenails: Keeping toenails trimmed can prevent pressure on the toes and reduce the risk of corns.
When to See a Doctor
If home remedies do not improve your corn, or if it becomes painful, inflamed, or shows signs of infection, it’s important to see a doctor. People with diabetes or other conditions that affect circulation should consult doctor before trying home treatments.
By using these natural home remedies and taking preventive measures, you can manage and reduce the discomfort caused by corns, keeping your feet healthy and pain-free.
Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam, MD, FRCP (London), FACP (USA)
Internal Medicine Specialist
Kify Hospital
Danavaipeta
Rajahmundry
Phone : 85000 23456
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