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Nail bed infection home remedy. 10 Effective Home Remedies for Toenail Fungus: Natural Treatments That Work

What are the most effective home remedies for toenail fungus. How can you treat toenail fungus naturally at home. Which essential oils are best for combating fungal nail infections. What household items can be used to treat toenail fungus.

Understanding Toenail Fungus: Causes, Symptoms, and Conventional Treatments

Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection that affects the toenails. It typically manifests as a white, brown, or yellow discoloration of one or more toenails. As the infection progresses, it can cause the nails to thicken, become brittle, and even crumble.

Conventional treatments for toenail fungus often involve prescription oral antifungals such as terbinafine (Lamisil) or fluconazole (Diflucan). While these medications can be effective, they may also cause side effects ranging from mild stomach upset to more severe issues like liver problems. This has led many people to seek out natural, home-based remedies as an alternative or complementary treatment approach.

Vicks VapoRub: An Unexpected Ally in Fighting Toenail Fungus

Can a common cold remedy effectively treat toenail fungus? Surprisingly, Vicks VapoRub has shown promise in combating fungal nail infections. A 2011 study revealed that this topical ointment had a “positive clinical effect” in treating toenail fungus. The active ingredients in Vicks VapoRub, camphor and eucalyptus oil, are believed to be responsible for its antifungal properties.

To use Vicks VapoRub for toenail fungus:

  1. Clean and dry the affected area thoroughly
  2. Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub directly to the infected nail
  3. Gently massage it into the nail and surrounding skin
  4. Repeat this process at least once daily, preferably before bedtime

While more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy, many people have reported positive results using this readily available product.

Harnessing the Power of Essential Oils: Tea Tree and Oregano Oil

Essential oils have gained popularity in recent years for their potential health benefits, including antifungal properties. Two oils, in particular, have shown promise in treating toenail fungus: tea tree oil and oregano oil.

Tea Tree Oil: Nature’s Antifungal Powerhouse

Tea tree oil, derived from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree, has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Its antifungal and antiseptic properties make it a popular choice for treating various skin conditions, including toenail fungus.

How effective is tea tree oil against toenail fungus? The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health reports that small-scale clinical studies have shown promising results. To use tea tree oil:

  • Apply undiluted tea tree oil directly to the affected nail twice daily using a cotton swab
  • Ensure the oil penetrates the nail and surrounding skin
  • Continue treatment for several months, as nail fungus can be stubborn

Oregano Oil: Thymol’s Antifungal Action

Oregano oil contains thymol, a compound with potent antifungal and antibacterial properties. A 2016 review highlighted thymol’s effectiveness against various fungal strains, making oregano oil a promising natural treatment for toenail fungus.

To use oregano oil for toenail fungus:

  1. Mix a few drops of oregano oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil
  2. Apply the mixture to the affected nail twice daily using a cotton swab
  3. Massage gently to ensure absorption
  4. Continue treatment for several weeks to months

It’s important to note that both tea tree and oregano oils are potent and may cause skin irritation in some individuals. Always perform a patch test before applying these oils to larger areas, and discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur.

Snakeroot Extract: A Lesser-Known but Effective Natural Remedy

Snakeroot extract, derived from plants in the sunflower family, is a lesser-known but potentially effective treatment for toenail fungus. How does snakeroot extract compare to conventional antifungal medications? A 2008 study found that snakeroot extract was as effective as the prescription antifungal medication ciclopirox in treating toenail fungus.

The study used the following application schedule:

  • First month: Apply every third day
  • Second month: Apply twice a week
  • Third month: Apply once a week

This gradual reduction in application frequency may help prevent the fungus from developing resistance while still maintaining efficacy. While snakeroot extract may be less readily available than some other home remedies, its proven effectiveness makes it a compelling option for those seeking natural treatments.

Olive Leaf Extract: Boosting Immunity and Fighting Fungus

Olive leaf extract has gained attention for its potential health benefits, including its antifungal properties. The active compound in olive leaf extract, oleuropein, is believed to have antifungal, antimicrobial, and immune-boosting abilities.

Is olive leaf extract more effective when applied topically or taken orally? A 2012 review suggests that oral consumption may be more beneficial. The review recommends taking one to three olive leaf capsules with meals twice daily for optimal results. It’s important to stay well-hydrated during this treatment to support the body’s natural detoxification processes.

For those who prefer topical application, olive leaf salve can be applied directly to the affected nail. However, the oral capsules appear to offer superior results in combating toenail fungus.

Ozonized Oils: A Cutting-Edge Approach to Fungal Infections

Ozonized oils represent an innovative approach to treating toenail fungus. These oils, typically olive oil or sunflower oil, are infused with ozone gas. How does this process enhance the oil’s antifungal properties? A 2011 study found that exposure to low concentrations of ozone for a short duration can inactivate various microorganisms, including fungi, yeast, and bacteria.

Further research has shown promising results for ozonized oils in treating toenail fungus. One study found that ozonized sunflower oil was more effective than the prescription topical antifungal ketoconazole (Xolegel) in treating toenail fungus.

To use ozonized oil for toenail fungus:

  1. Clean and dry the affected area thoroughly
  2. Apply a small amount of ozonized oil to the infected nail
  3. Gently massage the oil into the nail and surrounding skin
  4. Repeat this process twice daily

While ozonized oils may be less common than other home remedies, their effectiveness makes them a compelling option for those seeking alternative treatments for toenail fungus.

Household Remedies: Vinegar Soaks and Listerine Baths

Sometimes, effective treatments for toenail fungus can be found right in your kitchen or bathroom cabinet. Two popular household remedies are vinegar soaks and Listerine baths.

Vinegar Soaks: A Time-Tested Home Treatment

Vinegar has been used as a home remedy for various ailments for centuries. While scientific evidence supporting its use for toenail fungus is limited, many people swear by its effectiveness. The acidic nature of vinegar is believed to create an inhospitable environment for fungal growth.

To try a vinegar soak:

  • Mix one part vinegar with two parts warm water in a basin
  • Soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes daily
  • Dry the foot thoroughly after soaking
  • Repeat this process daily for several weeks

While more research is needed to confirm its efficacy, vinegar soaks are generally safe and may provide relief for some individuals.

Listerine Baths: Mouthwash as an Antifungal Treatment

Can a product designed for oral hygiene effectively treat toenail fungus? Listerine mouthwash contains several ingredients with antifungal and antibacterial properties, including menthol, thymol, and eucalyptus. These compounds may help combat the fungal infection causing toenail problems.

To use Listerine for toenail fungus:

  1. Fill a basin with amber-colored Listerine (avoid colored varieties)
  2. Soak the affected foot in the Listerine for 30 minutes daily
  3. Dry the foot thoroughly after soaking
  4. Continue this treatment for several weeks to months

While scientific evidence supporting this method is limited, many people have reported positive results using Listerine baths to treat toenail fungus.

Combining Home Remedies: Maximizing Effectiveness and Safety

When dealing with persistent toenail fungus, some individuals may consider combining multiple home remedies to enhance their effectiveness. Is it safe to use multiple treatments simultaneously? In general, it’s best to exercise caution when combining different remedies, as some combinations may increase the risk of skin irritation or other adverse reactions.

For example, combining potent essential oils like tea tree and oregano oil may increase the likelihood of skin sensitivity. Similarly, using multiple remedies that involve soaking the feet (such as vinegar soaks and Listerine baths) could lead to excessive drying of the skin, potentially causing cracks that may allow further fungal penetration.

If you’re considering using multiple home remedies, consider the following guidelines:

  • Start with one remedy and observe its effects for several weeks before adding another
  • Avoid combining treatments that have similar active ingredients or mechanisms of action
  • Pay close attention to any signs of skin irritation or adverse reactions
  • Consult with a healthcare professional before combining multiple treatments, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications

Remember that consistency and patience are key when treating toenail fungus. Most home remedies require several weeks to months of regular application to show significant results.

Prevention Strategies: Keeping Toenail Fungus at Bay

While treating existing toenail fungus is important, preventing future infections is equally crucial. What steps can you take to reduce your risk of developing toenail fungus? Here are some effective prevention strategies:

  1. Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between the toes
  2. Wear breathable footwear and moisture-wicking socks
  3. Use antifungal powder or spray in your shoes regularly
  4. Avoid walking barefoot in public areas like locker rooms and swimming pools
  5. Trim your toenails regularly and keep them short
  6. Disinfect nail clippers and other pedicure tools after each use
  7. Don’t share towels, shoes, or socks with others
  8. Choose nail salons that sterilize their tools properly

By incorporating these preventive measures into your daily routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing toenail fungus or experiencing recurrent infections.

When to Seek Professional Help: Recognizing the Limits of Home Remedies

While home remedies can be effective for many cases of toenail fungus, there are instances where professional medical intervention may be necessary. How can you determine if it’s time to consult a healthcare provider? Consider seeking professional help if:

  • Your toenail fungus persists or worsens despite consistent use of home remedies for several months
  • You experience pain, redness, or swelling around the affected nail
  • You have diabetes or a weakened immune system, which can increase the risk of complications
  • The infection spreads to other toenails or areas of the foot
  • You develop a secondary bacterial infection

A podiatrist or dermatologist can provide a definitive diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include prescription medications or advanced therapies like laser treatment. They can also assess any underlying conditions that may be contributing to the fungal infection and provide personalized advice on prevention and management.

Remember that while home remedies can be effective, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, especially in cases of severe or persistent toenail fungus. By combining home care with professional guidance when necessary, you can effectively manage toenail fungus and maintain healthy feet.

10 Home Remedies for Toenail Fungus

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You may be able to treat toenail fungus at home with certain essential oils and other products with antimicrobial and antifungal properties, like Vicks VapoRub.

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 toenails. It may spread and cause the nails to thicken or crack.

Sandal season or not, toenail fungus typically isn’t what you want to see when you look at your feet. There are many treatments you can try.

Prescription oral antifungals, such as terbinafine (Lamisil) or fluconazole (Diflucan), are traditionally used to treat toenail fungus. These treatments are often effective but may cause serious side effects such as upset stomach, dizziness, severe skin problems, and jaundice.

This may be why many people try home remedies instead. Here are 10 of these at-home treatments.

Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment. Although designed for cough suppression, its active ingredients (camphor and eucalyptus oil) may help treat toenail fungus.

A 2011 study found that Vicks VapoRub had a “positive clinical effect” in treating toenail fungus.

To use, apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the affected area at least once a day.

Shop for Vicks VapoRub online.

Snakeroot (Ageratina pichinchensis) extract is an antifungal made from plants in the sunflower family.

A 2008 study showed that the remedy is effective against toenail fungus as the antifungal medication ciclopirox.

For the study, snakeroot extract was applied to the affected area every third day for the first month, twice a week for the second month, and once a week for the third month.

Tea tree oil, also called melaleuca, is an essential oil with antifungal and antiseptic abilities.

According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, some small-scale clinical studies showed that tea tree oil might be effective against toenail fungus.

Paint the tea tree oil directly onto the affected nail twice daily with a cotton swab.

Shop for therapeutic-grade tea tree oil online.

Oregano oil contains thymol. According to a 2016 review, thymol has antifungal and antibacterial properties.

To treat toenail fungus, apply oregano oil to the affected nail twice daily with a cotton swab. Some people use oregano oil and tea tree oil together.

Both products are potent and may cause irritation or allergic reactions. Combining them may increase this risk.

Shop for oregano oil online.

An active substance in olive leaf extract, oleuropein, is thought to have antifungal, antimicrobial, and immune-boosting abilities.

You can apply olive leaf salve directly to nail fungus or ingest it in capsule form.

According to a 2012 review, taking one to three olive leaf capsules with meals twice daily is more effective than olive leaf salve in treating toenail fungus. It’s recommended that you drink plenty of water throughout this treatment.

Shop for olive leaf extract capsules or oil online.

Ozonized oils are oils like olive oil and sunflower oil that are “injected” with ozone gas.

According to a 2011 study, this type of ozone exposure in low concentrations for a short duration can then inactivate many organisms, such as fungi, yeast, and bacteria.

Another study found that ozonized sunflower oil was more effective in treating toenail fungus than the prescription topical antifungal ketoconazole (Xolegel).

To treat toenail fungus with ozonized oil, work the oil into the affected toenail twice a day.

Only anecdotal evidence exists supporting vinegar as a treatment for toenail fungus. Still, it’s a reasonably safe home remedy to try.

Soak the affected foot in one part vinegar to two parts warm water for up to 20 minutes daily.

Listerine mouthwash contains menthol, thymol, and eucalyptus, which have antibacterial and antifungal properties. This may be why it’s a popular folk remedy for toenail fungus.

Supporters of the treatment recommend soaking the affected foot in a basin of amber-colored Listerine for 30 minutes daily.

Shop for Listerine online.

A 2009 review found that garlic has some antifungal and antimicrobial capabilities.

You may treat toenail fungus with garlic by placing chopped or crushed garlic cloves on the affected area for 30 minutes daily.

It may be better, and less smelly, to treat it from the inside out with garlic capsules. Take as directed by the manufacturer.

The link between diet and health is clear: The healthier the foods you eat, the better chance your body has to fight off conditions such as toenail fungus.

Give your body the nutrients it needs by eating:

  • probiotic-rich yogurt
  • enough protein to support nail regrowth
  • enough iron to prevent brittle nails
  • a diet rich in essential fatty acids
  • foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, such as low fat dairy products

In most cases, toenail fungus is considered a cosmetic problem. Still, it may cause serious complications for some people.

If you have diabetes, toenail fungus may lead to foot ulcers or other foot problems. According to a 2012 study, chronic toenail fungus is a significant risk factor for bacterial cellulitis of the leg.

You shouldn’t use home remedies for toenail fungus if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system. Contact your doctor for the appropriate course of action.

Home remedies may be more effective than prescription medications in treating mild-to-moderate toenail fungus. Although home remedies typically have fewer side effects, there’s less scientific evidence that they work.

Many factors come into play when treating toenail fungus, such as nail penetrability, infection severity, and overall health.

Home remedies may take longer to wipe out toenail fungus than topical prescription medications or oral systemic antifungals. You may not see results for several months. Reinfection is common.

Once the infection is gone, keep your toenails dry, clean, and well-trimmed.

Severe cases of toenail fungus may cause pain and irreversible toenail damage. If you try home remedies to treat the infection that don’t work or cause side effects, consult your doctor.

Read this article in Spanish.

Fungal Nail Infection: Overview, Causes & Treatments

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  • Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
  • Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
  • Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

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Fungal nail infections are common and are caused by fungi that live in the environment. They enter through small cracks in your nail or the nearby skin, causing infection.

Fungal infections can affect any part of the body. Fungi are normally present in and on the body alongside various bacteria. But when a fungus begins to overgrow, you can get an infection.

Onychomycosis, also called tinea unguium, is a fungal infection that affects either the fingernails or toenails. Fungal infections normally develop over time, so any immediate difference in the way your nail looks or feels may be too subtle to notice at first.

A fungal nail infection occurs from the overgrowth of fungi in, under, or on the nail. Fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, so this type of environment can cause them to naturally overpopulate. The same fungi that cause jock itch, athlete’s foot, and ringworm can cause nail infections.

Fungi that are already present in or on your body can cause nail infections. If you have come in contact with someone else who has a fungal infection, you may have contracted it as well. Fungal infections affect toenails more commonly than fingernails, likely because your toes are usually confined to shoes, where they’re in a warm, moist environment.

If you get a manicure or pedicure at a nail salon, be sure to ask how the staff disinfects their tools and how often they do it. Tools, such as emery boards and nail clippers, can spread fungal infections from person to person if they’re not sanitized.

There are many different causes of fungal nail infections. Each cause has a treatment of its own. Although many of the causes of a fungal nail infection are preventable, some risk factors increase the likelihood of developing one. You’re more likely to develop a fungal nail infection if you:

  • have diabetes
  • have a disease that causes poor circulation
  • are over age 65
  • wear artificial nails
  • swim in a public swimming pool
  • have a nail injury
  • have a skin injury around the nail
  • have moist fingers or toes for an extended time
  • have a weakened immune system
  • wear closed-toe shoes, such as tennis shoes or boots

Nail infections occur more often in men than in women, and the infections are found in adults more often than in children. If you have family members who often get these types of fungal infections, you’re more likely to get them as well.

Older adults have a high risk for getting fungal nail infections because they have poorer circulation. The nails also grow more slowly and thicken as we age.

A fungal infection of the nail may affect part of the nail, the entire nail, or several nails.

Common signs of a fungal nail infection include:

  • a distorted nail that may lift off from the nail bed
  • an odor coming from the infected nail
  • a brittle or thickened nail

Distal subungual infection

Distal subungual infections are the most common type of fungal nail infection and can develop in both fingernails and toenails. When infected, the outer edge of the nail has a jagged appearance with white and/or yellow streaks across the nail.

The infection invades the nail bed and underside of the nail.

White superficial infection

White superficial infections usually affect toenails. A certain type of fungus attacks the top layers of the nail and creates well-defined white spots on the nail.

Eventually these white patches cover the entire nail, which becomes rough, soft, and prone to crumbling. Spots on nail may become pitted and flaky.

Proximal subungual infection

Proximal subungual infections are uncommon but can affect both fingernails and toenails. Yellow spots appear at the base of the nail as the infection spreads upward.

This infection can commonly occur in people with compromised immune systems. It can also result from minor injury to the nail.

Candida infection

Candida yeasts cause this type of infection. It can invade nails previously damaged by a prior infection or injury. More commonly, Candida affects fingernails. It often occurs in people who frequently soak their hands in water.

These infections usually start by the cuticle around the nail, which becomes swollen, red, and tender to the touch. The nail itself may partially lift off the nail bed, or fall off completely.

Because other infections can affect the nail and mimic symptoms of a fungal nail infection, the only way to confirm a diagnosis is to see a doctor. They’ll take a scraping of the nail and look under a microscope for signs of fungus.

In some cases, your doctor may send the sample to a lab for analysis and identification.

Over-the-counter products aren’t usually recommended to treat nail infections since they don’t provide reliable results. Instead, your doctor may prescribe an oral antifungal medication, such as:

  • terbinafine (Lamisil)
  • itraconazole (Sporanox)
  • fluconazole (Diflucan)
  • griseofulvin (Gris-PEG)

Your doctor may prescribe other antifungal treatments, such as antifungal nail lacquer or topical solutions. These treatments are brushed onto the nail in the same way that you’d apply nail polish.

Depending on the type of fungus causing the infection, as well as the extent of the infection, you may have to use these medications for several months. Topical solutions aren’t generally effective in curing toenail fungal infections.

Treatment isn’t guaranteed to completely rid your body of the fungal infection. Complications from fungal infection are also possible.

Making a few simple lifestyle changes can help prevent a fungal infection of the nails. Taking good care of your nails by keeping them well trimmed and clean is a good way to prevent infections.

Also avoid injuring the skin around your nails. If you’re going to have damp or wet hands for an extended amount of time, you may want to wear rubber gloves.

Other ways to prevent fungal infections of the nails include:

  • washing your hands after touching infected nails
  • drying your feet well after showering, especially between your toes
  • getting manicures or pedicures from trustworthy salons
  • avoiding being barefoot in public places
  • reducing your use of artificial nails and nail polish

Products to help you avoid nail fungus

If you’re prone to excessive moisture around your fingernails or toenails, consider buying:

  • antifungal sprays or powders
  • moisture-wicking socks
  • your own manicure or pedicure set

For some people, a fungal nail infection can be difficult to cure, and the first round of medication might not work. The nail infection can’t be considered cured until a new nail that’s free from infection has grown in.

Although this indicates that the nail is no longer infected, it’s possible for the fungal infection to return. In severe cases, there may be permanent damage to your nail, and it may have to be removed.

The main complications of a fungal nail infection are:

  • a resurgence of the infection
  • a permanent loss of the affected nail
  • a discoloration of the infected nail
  • the spread of infection to other areas of the body and possibly the bloodstream
  • the development of a bacterial skin infection called cellulitis

It’s especially important to see your doctor if you have diabetes and a fungal nail infection. People with diabetes have a greater risk for developing potentially serious complications caused by these infections. Talk to your doctor if you have diabetes and think you’re developing a fungal nail infection.

3 Simple Home Remedies for Toenail Fungus| iHerb Blog

The information in this blog has not been verified by your local public health authority and is not intended as a diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice.
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Toenail fungus can cause sore, itchy, and brittle nails. The fungus actively develops in a humid and warm environment, for example, in shoes. Nail fungus spreads easily, so it can be easily contracted in any environment. Toenail fungus can be a nuisance, but once you get it, treatment doesn’t have to be long.

Home remedies are a very effective way to get rid of nail fungus in just a few weeks. These home remedies can stop the growth of the fungus and destroy the existing fungus.

What is toenail fungus?

Nail fungus (experts call it onchomycosis) is a disease that occurs when the nail bed is affected by pathogenic fungi of certain types. With a fungal infection, the nails thicken and change color or become deformed. Nail color may turn dark yellow, white or brown. The fungus may start as a small, discolored dot that gradually gets larger. A person may notice that their nails have become brittle or flaky, and the area around the nails may look sore. In some cases, there may be an unpleasant smell or pain in the legs, and the affected areas can become a source of quite severe itching. As the fungus grows, it can cause the nail to detach from the nail bed and even fall out of the nail.

If left untreated, nail fungus can cause irreversible damage to health. In some people with chronic nail fungus, the body loses its ability to grow healthy nails due to severe damage to the nail bed. The fungus can also spread through the skin and spread to other nails. The skin affected by the fungus becomes swollen and cracked, in this condition it is at an increased risk of infection. Over time, nail fungus can become a serious condition that can cause dangerous infections that spread throughout the body. Therefore, it is very important to treat the fungus in time, and not to ignore it and not wait until it disappears by itself.

Where does toenail fungus come from?

To really get rid of nail fungus, it’s helpful to understand the root causes of it. Most types of onychomycosis are caused by dermatophyte fungi, but other types of fungal organisms, molds, and yeasts can also be involved in fungal infections. These types of organisms thrive best in warm, humid environments, so people who sweat a lot and often in tight shoes are more susceptible to nail fungus. The condition is so common among athletes that it is sometimes referred to as “athlete’s foot”.

Toenail fungus is highly contagious: just walk barefoot in the public gym and showers, or wear shoes worn by a person with toenail fungus. Not everyone who comes into contact with the fungus will necessarily become infected; a healthy body is often able to resist a fungal infection. Severe fungal infections are more common in people with weakened immune systems. This means that nail fungus is much more common among older people, those with diabetes, or those with poor circulation.

How to treat toenail fungus?

The first step in treating nail fungus is to be sure to wash your feet regularly, dry them thoroughly and avoid wearing wet socks or narrow-toed shoes. The fungus spreads very easily, so you should always wash your hands thoroughly after touching the affected area.

All of these steps should help slow the growth of the fungus, but you also need to remove the fungus that is already on your toes. There are several ways to get rid of fungus, including antifungal powders and nail creams, but natural remedies can be just as effective. These recipes can help fight nail fungus without the use of harsh chemicals.

Coconut Oil Treatment

One of the quickest and easiest ways to fight toenail fungus. This remedy may seem simple, but it is very effective because coconut oil has antifungal properties. The fatty acids present in coconut oil penetrate the fungal cell membranes, causing cell destruction. Coconut oil contains lauric and caprylic acids, which are toxic to fungi but completely safe for humans. To get rid of nail fungus, follow this method.

Ingredients:

  • Coconut oil
  • Soap
  • Water
  • Gauze (optional)
  • Band-aid (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Wash your feet with soap and water and let dry.
  2. Rub a pea-sized amount of coconut oil on all affected areas. Be sure to wash your hands after touching an affected nail and before touching a jar of coconut oil.
  3. For severe fungal infections, oil your finger, wrap it with gauze, and secure with adhesive tape to keep the coconut oil in constant contact with the nail.
  4. Repeat all affected areas with coconut oil at least twice a day.
  5. Wash your hands with soap and water after touching the fungus to avoid spreading the fungus.

Tea tree oil and orange oil treatment

Tea tree oil is one of the best ways to fight nail fungus. Tea tree oil is derived from an Australian plant that has been used for centuries as a traditional way to fight infections. It is a natural fungicide with many beneficial antibacterial properties. This fungus treatment combines tea tree oil with another beneficial fungicidal oil, orange oil. Since the oil is potent, it is recommended to dilute essential oils with a more neutral carrier oil. This remedy will give the skin of the feet a very pleasant aroma, and will help to quickly get rid of nail fungus.

Ingredients:

  • ½ tsp. orange oil
  • 1 tsp tea tree oil
  • ½ tsp grape or olive oil
  • Cotton ball or sponge

Instructions:

  1. Pour the three oils into a small bowl and stir until smooth.
  2. Dip a cotton swab into the tea tree and orange oil mixture and gently press the swab against the nail.
  3. Moisten affected area and allow to air dry.
  4. Repeat every morning and evening until the nail fungus is gone.

Baking soda and vinegar treatment

This method combines two different effective treatments for foot fungus. Wetting with vinegar is beneficial because apple cider vinegar is a slightly acidic solution, with a pH slightly higher than the pH of a healthy person’s skin. Most types of fungi that cause nail fungus require an alkaline environment to grow. Therefore, apple cider vinegar will create an acidic environment that inhibits the fungus. Baking soda doesn’t directly kill the fungus like vinegar does, but it does help remove the odor and prevent the fungus from spreading.

Ingredients:

  • 5 tbsp. baking soda
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • Water
  • Basin large enough to fit the legs
  • Towel

Instructions:

  1. Pour apple cider vinegar into enough water to cover your feet in a large bowl.
  2. Place your feet in a basin for 15 minutes and dry gently.
  3. Pour out the vinegar water, refill the water and dilute the baking soda in it until completely dissolved.
  4. Soak your feet for an additional 15 minutes.
  5. Blot your toes and let them dry naturally before putting your shoes back on.
  6. Repeat twice daily until nail fungus is gone.

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Folk remedies for nail fungus.

What is the treatment for fungus?

Contents:

➦ Symptoms of appearance
fungal infection

➦ Causes of foot fungus

➦ Risk factors and
complications

➦ Major
methods of treatment

➦ What will help cure nail fungus

➦ Most
effective folk remedies

✓ Homemade vinegar ointment

✓ Mint compress

✓ Copper ointment
vitriol

✓ Iodine against nail fungus
on legs

➦ Prevention
foot fungus

In summer we travel a lot, visit public beaches, pools and showers. Sometimes we are even carried into
long-distance voyages to the seas, where, willy-nilly, you have to use public beaches or toilets. All these places
increased accumulation of infections, where you can often pick up nail fungus. Its treatment is far from being an easy process, but
Don’t despair – you can still get rid of nail fungus!

Nail fungus is a common disease that usually begins as a small spot under
tip of the nail. It comes in both white and yellow. Contrary to popular belief, fungus occurs as
on the legs as well as on the hands. If it is not noticed in time, the fungal infection begins to spread deeper. So
Over time, the fungus can lead to discoloration, thickening and crumbling of the nail plate. This may affect
several adjacent nails, even if only one was initially infected.

When the condition is mild and does not bother you, you may not need major treatment. In case of strong
pain caused by nail fungus, popular care tips and various medications can help you.
Be attentive to your feet, because even with successful treatment, nail fungus often returns. Another
the popular name for the fungus is onychomycosis (on-ih-koh-my-KOH-sis). And the condition when the fungus affects the area between
toes and skin of the feet are called foot mycosis (tinea pedis).

Symptoms of a fungal infection

Even if you have never experienced nail fungus and have no idea what it looks like, you will never
skip that unbearable itch. It will not be superfluous for prevention to apply some kind of prescription for infection,
so that the process does not take the stage of running. So, many people recommend using vinegar to disinfect the area where the fungus is likely to have entered.

Main symptoms of nail fungus:

  • Itching in the area of ​​infection;
  • Changed color of the nail plate;
  • Splitting and brittleness of the nail;
  • Pain in the foot.

Effective treatment should be started at the first symptoms of nail fungus, you will be helped
special creams and ointments with antifungal action. The essence of professional tools for
getting rid of a fungal infection on the legs is that they not only eliminate the symptoms, but also destroy themselves
source of infection.

Fungal infection can develop in people of any age, but is more common in older people. With age
the nail can become brittle and dry. The resulting cracks on the nails allow the fungus to penetrate inside.
Other factors such as decreased circulation in the legs, weakened immune system may also play a role.
significant role in increasing the likelihood of infection.

Causes of foot fungus

Foot fungus occurs when a fungus of the genus Candida, dermatophyte or onychomycosis gets on the skin. Infection occurs through contact with the infected skin of another person or with a surface on which fungal spores are located. The most common places where these pathogens accumulate are saunas, swimming pools, baths, as the fungus loves a warm and humid environment.

Foot fungus development is provoked by the following factors:

  • poor foot hygiene
  • wearing closed and tight shoes
  • using synthetic underwear (socks, golfs, stockings, pantyhose) and rarely changing them
  • contact with other people’s things (for example, slippers, towels)
  • a number of diseases (diabetes mellitus, psoriasis, decreased immunity ).

The fungus can be wet, covering the skin of the foot with small bubbles, and also dry, characterized by increased keratinization and peeling of the skin.

Very often, foot fungus is localized in the interdigital space (in the crease between the fourth and fifth toes). This type of disease is called “athlete’s foot” (or interdigital mycosis), since in most cases it occurs in people who regularly visit gyms, fitness clubs and swimming pools, wear synthetic sneakers in which the leg sweats heavily and is poorly ventilated.

Fungal infection on the feet quickly passes from one toe to another, affecting the nail plates and the entire sole, accompanied by redness, itching, painful cracks. Bubbles filled with pus may appear at the site where the skin cracks.

Fungus Top

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Risk factors and complications

Unpleasant factors that can increase the risk of contracting a fungal infection are diabetes of the first and
second type. Diabetes often causes circulatory problems in the legs and can lead to reduced
sensitivity due to damage to the nerve endings. It significantly increases the risk of cellulite,
dry feet, cracks and injuries. Due to the poor condition of the skin, blood vessels and nerve fibers, any relatively
a minor foot injury, including a fungal nail infection, can lead to more serious complications.
See your doctor if you have diabetes and suspect that you have fungus.

Factors that may increase the risk of developing nail fungus:

  • Circulatory disorders
  • Strong perspiration
  • History of athletic foot
  • Damage to skin or nails
  • Skin diseases (e.g. psoriasis)
  • Presence of any type of diabetes
  • Weak immunity

Do not start treatment, because, turning into a severe form, the fungus can be painful and lead to irreversible
damage to the skin and nail plate. Be especially careful if you suspect a decrease in immune
forces of the body, because the damage caused by the fungus is quite difficult to fix. That’s why timing is so important.
cure the fungus as quickly as possible.

Basic treatments

● Unfortunately, the problem of fungal infection of the nails and skin occurs not only in adults, but also in
children. Our grandmothers used the most ancient and, as it is believed, the fastest way to get rid of the infection – vinegar.
On a basin of water you need a glass of table 9% vinegar. Such baths are able to kill fungal spores, preventing
their distribution. Keep in mind that for irritated or damaged skin, this procedure happens
very painful.

● Contrary to popular belief, spores can affect not only the skin of the legs, but can also easily linger on
arm or other part of the body. The sooner you adopt the most effective means of caring for your
damaged part of the body, the sooner you can cure it. Fungal nail infections can be difficult to treat.
Talk to your doctor if self-care strategies and over-the-counter products haven’t helped. Treatment
depends on the severity of your condition and the type of fungus causing it. To see the results, you can
months are required. And even if the condition of your nails improves, re-infections are not uncommon.
happening.

● Antifungals are both topical and oral. They are often
drugs of first choice, as they get rid of the infection faster than topical drugs.
The action of these funds is aimed at accelerating the growth of the nail plate and more rapid exfoliation of it.
the affected part. It usually takes 6-12 weeks for the fungus to go away completely. The end result will be
noticeable when a healthy nail grows. In addition, the older the patient, the weaker the result will be.
treatment. Adults over 65 may experience a longer recovery time and may also
additional preparations for external use are required.

● Oral antifungals are not commonly used because they can cause various side effects.
effects. Therefore, if the disease is not in an advanced stage, then doctors try to get by with external means. For
blood tests are recommended to determine the exact dose of medication. Physicians may not recommend oral
medicines for people with liver disease, heart failure, or those taking certain
medicines. After all, frequent side effects from them are skin rash, liver damage.

● Another cure for disease is antifungal nail polish. You put it on
infected nails and surrounding skin once a day. After seven days, you rub the superimposed layers
alcohol, then start new applications. You may need to use this nail polish daily.
for almost a year.

● Another treatment option is an antifungal cream, which must be rubbed onto infected
nails after soaking. To improve the effect of creams, it is better to thin the nails first. thinner layer
will help the medicine to penetrate the fungus and destroy it. For this procedure, the stratum corneum is thinned
urea, and then removed with a file or other tool.

What will help cure nail fungus

Preparations for the treatment of nail fungus

Cyclocutane protective nail polish against fungus 3g

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Mikozan set for removal of fungal infection of the nail plate

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Salvator nail polish fights all types of fungus, removing the pathogen and solving the problem of nail plate diseases in a qualitative way. Cares for the nail plate, contributing to its restoration.

The most effective folk remedies

Homemade vinegar ointment

The strongest remedy that will help get rid of the fungus is vinegar and an egg. They make great
ointment that promotes tissue healing and softens the affected area of ​​the nail. Raw chicken egg
placed in a glass of vinegar, then placed in a dark cabinet until the essence dissolves the shell.
Then you need to remove the film and mix vinegar, oil, egg together. Ointment is applied to the steamed legs,
cellophane is approaching and the effect of a bath is created. Then the affected softened area is removed, and the next day the ointment is applied again.

✅ Garlic Lotion

Garlic is a powerful natural antibacterial and antifungal agent. It helps to remove fungal
lesions in the mildest way, even in advanced cases. Garlic juice is mixed with alcohol in proportion
1:1 and diluted with distilled water. This lotion should be applied to all affected areas of the skin.
and a nail overnight until the complete death of the fungus. This lotion is effective even in advanced cases.

✅ Peppermint Compress

Peppermint is an excellent remedy for fungus. The essential oils found in mint have been shown to be effective in
application against fungi, lamblia and staphylococci. Traditional medicine believes that the treatment of fungus with herbs
the same effective method as ointments. Fresh leaves are best for making a compress.
plants or essential oils. In the case of cooking from fresh leaves, you need to grind the mint with salt and
apply on the sore nail. If the fungus is in an uncomfortable place on the arm or leg, then it would be better to fix
his bandage. Essential oil is suitable for lubricating damaged areas.

✅ Copper sulfate ointment

Another popular way is to use copper sulfate to fight fungi and infections. He enters
the composition of many antifungal ointments, but can also be used as an independent remedy. If you have
there is no way to buy an ointment in a pharmacy, you can prepare it yourself. Use tar or
goose fat to create a greasy base, add a teaspoon of sulfur and copper sulfate there. Copper
vitriol must first be calcined in a frying pan until it turns white or gray. lubricate the diseased parts
feet or hands with this ointment every evening.

✅ Iodine against toenail fungus

In emergency cases, ordinary iodine, which can always be found at home, will help to cope with the fungus. He
copes well with wounds, but few people know that just one drop of iodine can prevent development
fungal infection of the foot. This is the best remedy for the first manifestations of fungus on the nails. It is applied
directly on the nail plate at night, then put on socks, by morning iodine is absorbed into the nail.
The procedure must be repeated for at least two weeks.

Prevention of foot fungus

Remember that the prevention of fungus with folk remedies of the foot is possible, so if you have suspicions of
fungus, use vinegar or iodine. The following habits can help prevent nail fungus or recurrence.
infection:

  1. Wash hands and feet regularly. Wash your hands after touching an infected nail. Moisturize your nails
    after washing.
  2. Cut your nails evenly, smooth the edges with a file, file thickened areas. Disinfect cutting pliers
    nails after each use.
  3. Wear sweat-wicking socks or change them throughout the day.
  4. Choose shoes made from breathable materials.
  5. Throw away old shoes or treat them with disinfectants and antifungal powders.
  6. Wear shoes in pool areas, changing rooms, public areas.