When it comes to fashion and function, the combination of socks and Crocs™ may seem unconventional to some. However, this pairing is gaining attention not only for its unique style but also for hiding your feet when out in public, if needed.

Our feet are the unsung heroes of our daily lives, enabling us to stand, balance, walk, run, and dance with grace and efficiency. They are complex structures made up of 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments, all working in harmony to support our bodies and facilitate movement.

Our feet can become prone to a range of disease and disorders which can limit movement and make life seem a struggle.

Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection of the toenail. The most noticeable symptom is a white, brown, or yellow discoloration of one or more of the nails. It may spread and cause the nails to thicken or crack. Sandal, jandal or Croc™ season or not, toenail fungus isn’t typically what you want on display at the beach or barbecue.

Leaves of the horopito tree (Pseudowintera colorata) were traditionally using to treat fungal infections as the peppery constituents of horopito stimulates blood circulation when it is applied topically.

The main constituent of horopito is known as polygodial, a component of the “hot taste” in peppery spices such as wasabi, common in traditional Japanese cuisine and it has been shown to exhibit significant antifungal and antibacterial activity.

Simply take a handful of leaves and place on a chopping board. Using the base of a large, heavy saucepan, crush the leaves slightly and place them in the saucepan and add one litre of water.

Simmer for twenty minutes and allow the water to cool before straining the horopito leaves and adding to a foot bath. Soak your feet until the water cools and then pat dry.

A corn on the foot is a type of thickened, hardened skin that forms in response to repeated friction or pressure. Corns typically develop on the toes or the soles of the feet and can be painful and limit movement.

Corns are generally round and have a hard, central core surrounded by thickened skin. They can vary in size and colour but are often yellowish or greyish.

Regular friction or pressure from ill-fitting shoes or repeated activities can cause corns to form. For example, tight shoes, high heels, or shoes with inadequate arch support can contribute to their development.

A kawakawa foot bath can be a soothing and natural remedy for relieving discomfort associated with corns as well as fungal infections. Its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties may provide some relief, but it should be used in conjunction with other preventive measures for managing corns effectively which can be found in the pharmacy.

Kawakawa (Macropiper excelsum) grows widely on the island, unlike horopito which likes the cold of Te Wai Pounamu. Kawakawa’s heart-shaped leaves are usually found tucked away under the canopy of other trees where it prefers a shady position.

The kawakawa plant has distinctive dark brown, zigzag branches which are swollen at the nodes. These “swollen joints” have long signified its use in easing the discomfort of arthritis.

If using fresh kawakawa leaves, rinse them thoroughly to remove any dirt. Place a handful of leaves in a pot with about 4-5 cups of water. Bring the water to a boil and then simmer for about 10-15 minutes.

After simmering, strain the liquid to remove the leaves. You should be left with a concentrated kawakawa infusion. Pour the kawakawa infusion into a basin or foot bath. Soak your feet in the warm liquid for 15-20 minutes. After soaking, gently pat your feet dry with a clean towel. To further nourish your skin, apply a moisturising foot cream. For added warmth and to help the cream absorb better, slip on a pair of socks.

While the trend of wearing socks with Crocs™ might raise eyebrows in the fashion world, its practical benefits for foot health are worth considering. The added cushioning, moisture management, and protection can make a noticeable difference in comfort and overall foot care.