Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common toenail infection. If not treated promptly, this contagious disease can be excruciatingly painful and even spread to other parts of the body.
It can be difficult to treat, especially if it is severe and affects the majority of the nails. Before applying any treatment, the nails should be trimmed and preferably debrided (the majority of the damaged nail removed). Change your socks on a daily basis and wear shoes that allow your feet to breathe.
The following home remedies can be effective for toenail fungus.
Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment. Although it is intended to treat coughs, its active ingredients (camphor and eucalyptus oil) may also aid in the treatment of toenail fungus. According to a 2011 study, Vicks VapoRub had a "positive clinical effect" in the treatment of toenail fungus. Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the affected area at least once per day.
According to research, baking soda absorbs moisture that causes toenail fungus. Baking soda has been shown to inhibit fungal growth by 79%. To heal the affected nail, add baking soda to a foot soak. You can also make a baking soda paste with a little water and apply it directly to the foot. Allow the paste to sit on the affected area for 10 to 20 minutes before rinsing with warm water and thoroughly drying the foot. Baking soda can also be sprinkled on the foot or in the shoes, similar to foot powder. Put on clean socks after applying baking soda to a dry foot; the baking soda can wick away moisture while the healing properties work to reduce toenail fungus.
Apple cider vinegar is another home treatment for toenail fungus. Vinegar is an antifungal substance that may be used with water to make a foot soak. Its acetic acid component helps to whiten discolored toenails and prevents infection from spreading to other toes. Soak feet in two parts vinegar to one-part warm water for 20 minutes every day. For a stronger foot soak, use one part vinegar to one part water. If the fragrance is too strong, essential oils can be used to make the experience more pleasant. White vinegar can be used as a substitute because both are equally effective.
Listerine original mouthwash has antifungal and antibacterial chemicals such as thymol, menthol, and eucalyptol, and Listerine footbaths have been used to treat sports foot and other fungal foot illnesses such as fungal toenails. Soaking feet in a Listerine foot bath for 20 to 30 minutes softens the nail plate, allowing natural antifungal chemicals in the mouthwash to penetrate the nail and kill the fungus.
To treat toenail or foot fungus, soak feet in tea. Tannic acid in black tea dries out the feet, destroys bacteria, and helps to shut the pores of the feet to minimize sweating. Boil two quarts of water, then add five to six tea bags. Allow the tea to cool before soaking the feet for 30 minutes. If desired, you can use this foot soak on a daily basis.
Fungus that grows on toes can be killed with hydrogen peroxide. You can use a clean cloth or cotton swab to apply hydrogen peroxide straight to your infected toes or toenails. A foot soak can also contain hydrogen peroxide. Soak feet for 10 to 20 minutes in four cups of cool water with 1/8 cup hydrogen peroxide (or several capfuls). Warm water should be used to rinse and dry your feet.
Nail changes can also be caused by underlying conditions such as psoriasis and diabetes, so if your condition persists or worsens, you should seek professional medical assistance.