TOENAIL FUNGUS, ALSO KNOWN AS ONYCHOMYCOSIS, IS A COMMON CONDITION CAUSED BY A FUNGAL INFECTION IN ONE OR MORE TOENAILS. IT CAN CAUSE DISCOLORATION, THICKENING, AND EVEN CRUMBLING OF THE TOENAIL, MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO WEAR OPEN-TOED SHOES OR SANDALS. FORTUNATELY, THERE ARE SEVERAL HOME REMEDIES for toenail fungus AND COMMERCIAL PRODUCTS THAT CAN HELP TREAT AND PREVENT it.
Toenail fungus is a common infection that affects many people. It is caused by a type of fungus that grows in warm and moist environments such as shoes and socks. The fungus can enter the skin through a small cut or a separation between the nail and the nail bed. It can cause the nail to become discolored, thickened, and brittle, and may even cause it to crumble or detach from the nail bed. Toenail fungus is not usually painful but can be unsightly and embarrassing. It is important to treat the infection promptly to prevent it from spreading to other nails or to other people
Home Remedies for toenail fungus
- Neem: Neem has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine for its antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.. Add Neem oil or grinded neem leaves in luke warm water and soak your feet for fifteen minutes, once or twice a day depending on severity of infection.
- Turmeric: Turmeric is effective against toenail fungus when applied topically. soak affected foot in a solution containing 1 tablespoon of turmeric in 5 L of Luke warm water for almost 15 minutes daily till the symptoms disappear. Note: turmeric stains skin temporarily for some days.
- Tee Tree Oil: Tea tree oil has antifungal properties that can help to kill the fungus causing the infection. Apply a drop of tea tree oil directly to the affected nail and rub it into the nail and surrounding skin twice daily.
- Garlic: Garlic is a natural antifungal agent that can help to treat toenail fungus. Crush a few garlic cloves and apply the paste to the affected nail. Cover the nail with a bandage and leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it off.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil has antifungal properties that can help to treat toenail fungus. Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the affected nail and massage it into the nail and surrounding skin.
- Vinegar: Vinegar can create an acidic environment that can inhibit the growth of fungi. Soak your feet in a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water for 15-20 minutes, twice daily.
- Baking Soda: Baking soda has antifungal properties that can help to treat toenail fungus. Make a paste by mixing baking soda and water and apply it to the affected nail. Cover the nail with a bandage and leave it on for 30 minutes before washing it off.
- Listerine: Soak the affected toenail in a mixture of equal parts of Listerine and water for 30 minutes daily till symptoms disappear.
lifestyle changes to prevent or manage toenail fungus
Here are some lifestyle changes that may help prevent or manage toenail fungus:
- Keep your feet clean and dry, especially after exercise or other activities that cause sweating.
- Wear shoes that fit well and allow your feet to breathe.
- Avoid wearing damp or sweaty socks for long periods of time.
- Change your socks and shoes daily.
- Avoid walking barefoot in public areas like locker rooms and showers.
- Trim your toenails regularly and properly to prevent ingrown toenails.
- Avoid sharing nail clippers or other personal care items with others.
- Consider wearing breathable shoes or sandals in warm weather to keep your feet cool and dry.
- Keep your feet moisturized with lotion to prevent dryness and cracking, which can make it easier for fungi to enter your nails.
It’s important to note that while lifestyle changes may help prevent toenail fungus, they may not be effective in treating an existing infection. In that case, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate treatment.
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