Toenail Fungus Home Remedies
Helpful Toenail Fungus Home Remedies
Nail fungus or onychomycosis, is a condition where fungus enters the fingernails or toenails. It can affect one or more nails. Nail fungus occurs more often in toenails than fingernails but there are many ways in treating toenail fungus. Toenail fungus home remedies are fast becoming popular. Even professional podiatrists are recommending its use. Some of these toenail fungus home remedies have been found to be more effective than pharmaceutical drugs.
There are various toenail fungus home remedies. One way of curing toenail fungus is with the use of warm water and apple cider vinegar. The toenails are soaked for 15 to 20 minutes in a basin of warm water and apple cider vinegar in equal proportion. Once finished, the toenails should be dried thoroughly. Apple cider is a mild acid and it can inhibit the growth of the fungus.
One of the toenail fungus home remedies considered helpful is using Listerine Mouthwash. Soak the toes in a sufficient amount of Listerine Mouthwash for 15 to 20 minutes. After which, dry it thoroughly. The mouthwash contains thymol, salicylate, and eucalyptus. Thymol is commonly used in powders for skin fungal infections. Salicylate causes dead skin to shed, allowing growth of new skin cells. Eucalyptus is known for its antimicrobial properties.
Other toenail fungus home remedies include the use of tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and helps fight off fungi. This treatment is recommended for mild and moderate cases. Put a few drops of the oil on the affected nail. Let it stay for 10 to 15 minutes, and brush or scrub it to help slough off the topmost layer of the nail, which usually has most of the fungus.
A Convenient Toenail Fungus Home Remedies
It is caused by fungi that don’t require sunlight to survive. A group of fungi called dermatophytes is the most common cause of nail fungus; however, some yeasts and molds can also cause it. These microorganisms usually enter the skin through a small cut or break in the nail. When the nails provide a suitable dark, warm and moist environment; the fungi thrive.
Of the toenail fungus home remedies, hydrogen peroxide has had claims of success. One formula involves mixing it in equal proportions with water and soaking the affected feet in it for 10 minutes. After which, get the feet off the solution and dry it thoroughly. Hydrogen peroxide reacts with the body by releasing its extra oxygen atom. This initiates an oxidizing reaction, killing the fungi.
Another way to help alleviate toenail fungus is by using Vicks Vaporub. This remedy is done before bedtime. Make sure the feet are clean and dry. Apply Vicks directly to the affected nail. Put on a pair of clean white socks to prevent the Vicks from staining the sheets. Vicks Vaporub contains thymol which inhibits the growth of fungi. Be patient since this treatment may take 6 months.
Effects of Toenail Fungus Home Remedies
Toenail fungus home remedies may not offer sure cures; however, it remains popular because of its convenience and affordable cost. The effects of these remedies may vary. It may take a long time to work. It may also be ineffective in some cases. Consult a doctor first and stop treatment if there are untoward effects.
