Hello everyone!
Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis) may affect up to 14% of the general population. It is not a dangerous condition, but it can be unsightly. You can catch it using a shared shower, walking barefoot at a public pool, or even getting a pedicure. The most noticeable symptom is a white, brown, or yellow discolouration. It may spread and cause the nails to thicken, crack or even crumble. If the toenail fungus is severe, you should visit a doctor for treatment.
For this reason, many people try home remedies to solve the issue without chemicals or medicines. Here are some of the best natural remedies:
Tea Tree oil
Tea tree oil is a popular home remedy for many skin conditions, including fungal infections. It has antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Other essential oils
Other popular essential oils that may eliminate toenail fungus and prevent its return include:
- Clove essential oil
- Eucalyptus essential oil
- Lavender essential oil
- Lemon essential oil
- Lemongrass essential oil
- Oregano essential oil
- Peppermint essential oil
- Thyme essential oil
Dab a few drops of the essential oil onto your toenails twice a day. In my opinion, treating toe fungus with essential oils is the simplest and least time-consuming method. It is also a very effective home remedy.
White vinegar
White vinegar can help eliminate fungus when diluted in lukewarm water. Acetic acid has antifungal and antibacterial properties. Vinegar may slow the growth of some fungal infections, including toenail fungus.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is also a popular vinegar used to treat toenail fungus. ACV is a very acidic solution that can eliminate toenail fungus at the source.
Soak the affected area in one part vinegar to two parts warm water for up to 20 minutes daily.
Listerine mouthwash
The thymol, menthol and eucalyptus in Listerine have antibacterial and antifungal properties. This is what makes it a popular home remedy for toenail fungus. Soak for 20 minutes daily.
Snakeroot extract
Snakeroot is commonly known for treating toenail fungus in Mexico. The extract is known for its antifungal properties and is directly applied to the infected area. Apply 2 to 3 times per week to experience positive results.
Pau D’arco tea
Pau d’arco is the bark of a South American tree. It can work as effectively as prescription antifungal medication. Soak your feet in tea for 20 minutes twice a day.
Vicks VapoRub (or similar ointments)
Vicks VapoRub has some antifungal ingredients, including:
- Menthol
- Camphor
- Eucalyptus oil
Apply a small amount of topical ointment to the affected toenail once a day, and it should eliminate or at least significantly reduce the infection.
Time
Some fungal nail infections will grow out on their own. You may have to wait as much as 12-18 months. Keep your nails cut short and file down any thick areas. Don't use the same nail trimmer or file on healthy and infected nails.
Home remedies may take longer to eliminate toenail fungus than topical prescription medications. In fact, you may not see results for several months. You shouldn’t use home remedies for toenail fungus if you have diabetes or a weakened immune system. Severe cases of toenail fungus may cause pain and irreversible toenail damage. If you try home remedies that don’t work or cause side effects, consult your doctor.
If you have any additional tips or home remedies, leave them in the comment section below.
Talk soon,
