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Toenail Fungus: Try One of These 10 Home Remedies for Toenail Fungus
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Toenail Fungus
Onychomycosis, which is another name for toenail fungus, is a common fungal condition that can affect your toenails. The darkening of one or more of your toenails, which may be white, brown, or yellow, is the sign that draws the most attention. It may spread, resulting in the nails becoming thicker or even cracking.
Toenail fungus is normally not something that you want to see when you look at your feet, regardless of whether it is sandal season or not. You are in luck because there are various treatments from which to choose.
Oral antifungals available by prescription, such as terbinafine (Lamisil) or fluconazole (Diflucan), are the conventional treatment of choice for fungal infections of the toenails. These therapies are typically effective; however, they have the potential to cause substantial adverse effects, which can range from stomach pain and lightheadedness to severe skin issues and jaundice.
It’s possible that this is the reason why so many individuals turn to home cures instead. Here are some of the most common treatments that can be done at home.
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1. Vicks VapoRub
An example of a topical ointment is Vicks VapoRub. Camphor and eucalyptus oil, which are two of the active ingredients in this product, have been shown in certain studies to be effective in treating fungal infections of the toenails.
According to the findings of a study that was conducted in 2011, Vicks VapoRub was found to have a “good clinical effect” in the treatment of toenail fungus.
At the very least once each day, apply a thin layer of Vicks VapoRub to the region that is experiencing symptoms.
2. an extract made from snakeroot
Extract of snakeroot, also known as Ageratina pichinchensis, is an antifungal that is derived from plants belonging to the sunflower family.
A 2008 study
It was demonstrated by Reliable Source that the treatment is just as effective against toenail fungus as the antifungal medication ciclopirox, which is available only with a doctor’s prescription.
During the first month of the trial, an extract of snakeroot was applied to the affected area every third day. During the second month, the treatment was increased to twice a week, and during the third month, it was reduced to once a week.
3. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is a type of essential oil that has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. It is also known as melaleuca oil.
Tea tree oil may be an effective treatment for fungal infections of the toenails, according to the findings of a few pilot clinical trials, which were published by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
To apply, take a cotton swab and paint a small amount of tea tree oil directly onto the affected nail two times per day.
4. Oregano oil
The essential oil of oregano contains thymol. A study that was conducted in 2016 found that thymol possesses both antibacterial and antifungal effects.
Applying oregano oil to the afflicted nail twice a day with a cotton swab is an effective method for treating toenail fungus. There are many that combine the usage of tea tree oil and oregano oil.
Both of these products are very concentrated and have the potential to irritate or trigger an allergic reaction. It is possible that combining them will raise this danger.
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5. An extract of olive leaf
Oleuropein, the active component of olive leaf extract, is thought to possess antifungal, antibacterial, and immune-boosting capabilities.
Olive leaf salve can be topically applied to nail fungus, or it can be taken internally in capsule form.
Olive leaf salve may be used as a treatment for toenail fungus; however, a study from 2012 found that taking one to three olive leaf capsules with meals twice daily was more successful than using olive leaf salve. Throughout the course of this treatment, it is strongly suggested that you consume a lot of water.
6. Ozonized oils
Olive oil and sunflower oil are examples of ozonized oils, which are oils that have been “injected” with ozone gas.
As one study from 2011 found,
According to a Reliable Source, this kind of exposure to ozone in low concentrations for a short period of time can then inactivate various organisms such as fungi, yeast, and bacteria.
One more research
According to a reliable source, ozonized sunflower oil is more effective in treating toenail fungus than the topical antifungal ketoconazole, which is available only with a doctor’s prescription (Xolegel).
To use ozonized oil as a treatment for fungal infections of the toenails, rub some of the oil into each of the affected toenails twice daily.
7. Vinegar
There is only anecdotal evidence to support the use of vinegar as a therapy for fungal infections of the toenails. In spite of this, giving it a shot at home should not pose too many risks.
To use, immerse the foot in a solution consisting of one part warm water and two parts vinegar for up to twenty minutes on a regular basis.
8. a mouthwash made of Listerine
Mouthwash containing substances with antibacterial and antifungal characteristics, such as menthol, thymol, and eucalyptus, is sold under the brand name Listerine. It’s possible that this is why it’s such a common home cure for fungal infections of the toenails.
The affected foot should be submerged in a basin of amber-colored Listerine for a period of half an hour each day, as recommended by proponents of the treatment.
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9. Garlic
A 2009 review
Garlic has been discovered to have some antibacterial and antifungal properties, according to a reliable source.
Garlic can be used as a treatment for toenail fungus, and one method of doing so involves applying chopped or crushed garlic cloves to the afflicted area for thirty minutes each day.
Garlic capsules offer a potentially more effective and less pungent method of treating the condition from the inside out. Follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer.
10. Adjust your diet
The connection between diet and health is unmistakable: the more nutritious the foods you consume, the greater the likelihood that your body will be able to ward against diseases like toenail fungus.
By eating, you can supply your body with the nutrients it requires:
yoghurt that is rich in probiotics
and sufficient protein to sustain the renewal of nails.
sufficient iron to prevent nails from becoming brittle.
a diet rich in vital fatty acids
foods that are high in calcium and vitamin D, such as dairy products with a low-fat content
When should one go to the doctor?
Toenail fungus is viewed as mostly a cosmetic issue in the vast majority of instances. Nevertheless, it may result in major difficulties for certain individuals.
Toenail fungus can cause foot ulcers and other issues if you have diabetes. Toenail fungus can also cause other foot problems. A chronic case of toenail fungus was found to be a substantial risk factor for bacterial cellulitis of the leg in a research study that was conducted in 2012.
If you suffer from diabetes or have an impaired immune system, you should avoid using home treatments for fungal infections of the toenails. Get in touch with your primary care physician to discuss the best next steps.
Conclusion
When it comes to treating mild to moderate toenail fungus, it’s possible that home cures are more beneficial than pharmaceutical medications. There is less scientific evidence to support the efficacy of home remedies, despite the fact that they often have fewer adverse effects.
When it comes to treating toenail fungus, there are many elements that come into play, such as the nail’s penetrability, the degree of the infection, and the patient’s overall health.
Toenail fungus can be eradicated with home remedies, although it may take longer than it would with prescription topical drugs or oral systemic antifungals. It could be several months before you see any improvements. It’s not uncommon to get reinfected.
After the infection has been cleared up, you should continue to maintain your toenails clean, dry, and well-trimmed.
In severe circumstances, toenail fungus can result in excruciating discomfort and permanent damage to the affected toenail. Consult a medical professional if the treatment you try at home for the infection does not work or if it causes you to experience unwanted side effects.