How To Treat Toenail Fungal Infection At Home? Home Remedies For You

Toenail fungal infection which is also known as onychomycosis, Tinea Unguium is a common condition that affects the toenails. The fungi in the toe colonize the space between the toe and tissue that appear underneath the toenail.

The infected area appears thick yellow or brown in color. Usually, it appears when there is a cut or breakage in the nail. The infection can transmit easily from one nail to another.

If the infection is not treated properly the fungus damages the nail resulting in breakage and discoloration. People usually consult doctors for treatment but of course, there are some effective home remedies to cure the infection.

Cause Of Fungal Infection

Most fungal infections are serious but some people may experience slight pain around the nails. It is caused by a class of fungus which is known as dermatophytes, which includes special candida.

Apart from the discoloration, infected parts appear thick, fragile, or cracked, sometimes the nails may get separated from the nail bed. The fungal infection may be caused by different fungi appearing in the environment.

It occurs when the fungus overgrows in, under, or on the nails. The infection may occur due to various reasons which are related to lifestyle and hygiene. The common reason for the cause of the infection are:

• Walking barefoot

• Diabetes

• Wearing artificial nails

• Nail injury

• People who are over age 65

• Having skin injury around the nails

• Weak immune system

• Keeping contact with moisture for an extended time

• Wearing closed shoes

• Poor foot hygiene

Home Remedy To Get Rid Of Toe Infection

Toe Fungal infection is easily transmittable and capable of damaging all nails. So, applying the correct remedy can cure the infection to some extent and helps to keep the nails clean and beautiful.

Usually, doctors prescribe antifungal medicines and treatments such as itraconazole or terbinafine, or fluconazole which can treat most fungal toenail infections.

But these treatments need time and patience, some side effects are seen including stomach upset, liver problems, and jaundice.

There are other treatments like laser treatment, topical medications, and nail removal which are not convenient to common people because of the cost and are difficult to access. 

There is an effective hack that helps to treat the attack of infection at home which includes:

• Baking soda

Studies found that baking soda has properties that absorb the moisture which was formed on the area of the nail.

Baking soda is effective to prevent the growth of fungus by 79 percent. The simple and effective way to use baking soda is by preparing a paste of it and applying it to the infected area or by putting the soda inside the shoe or socks before wearing them. Keep the soda for a while and rinse it off.

• Garlic

Garlic is considered a superfood that has the properties to cure many health issues such as stomach trouble, colds,s and many more.

Studies suggest that garlic has anti-fungal and antimicrobial capabilities that can help to cure infections caused by fungus. Applying garlic to the affected area can cure the toenail infection by keeping it for 30 minutes daily.

• Mouthwash

Mouthwash is a common product that is used by many, it contains ingredients such as thymol, menthol, and eucalyptus that have antifungal and antibacterial properties.

So it is an affordable and convenient product used to cure the toenail infection. Soaking the toe in a bowl of mouthwash for a while can make a difference.

• Vinegar

Vinegar is mostly used in the cooking process which is also used for cleaning purposes by many people. Vinegar can lower the pH of the skin which removes unwanted fungus on the skin.

Some experts advise that adding two tablespoons of vinegar to a bowl of lukewarm water and soaking the infected toe can cure the affected area. Practicing it daily can treat the infection faster.

• Vicks vaporub

The ingredients of Vicks vaporub including menthol, camphor, thymol, and Eucalyptus oil effectively kill the fungus which was proved in the clinical test.

The report states that 83% of the people who have applied for toenail infection daily for 48 weeks showed a positive impact. People showed a positive response after using the Vicks to treat the infection.

• Oregano oil

Herbs such as oregano is an effective remedies to cure fungal infections at home. Oregano oil’s antibacterial properties are able to inhibit fungal growth in the nails.

People with toenail infection can apply the oil to the affected area. But the experts suggest that mixing oregano oil with other essential oil such as olive or avocado oil can prevent adverse reactions of the oregano oil for sensitive skin. 

Mild fungal infection can be cured by home remedies but if you notice the toe is swollen, red, or tender to touch it is good to consult a doctor. If the infection looks to extend to the skin advanced treatment is mandatory. 

Read More: How To Treat Ingrown Fingernails At Home? Effective Methods