Toenail fungus is a fungal infection that is often difficult to treat. Many chemically based medicines take months to work, and some cause adverse side effects that are often worse than the toenail fungus. There are many natural remedies for toenail fungus that successfully eliminate the infection without side effects. These treatments can be used in the comfort and privacy of your own home. Even if you have struggled with severe nail fungus for years, you can get rid of it and prevent it from returning.
Toenail fungus grows under the nail and can spread to other toenails. Toenails that are affected by a fungal infection become dry, yellow, and thick. They can crack and crumble, and in many cases, they can break away from the nail bed. Treating and destroying the fungus will create a healthy environment for a new nail to grow. One of the best ways to kill a fungus is to soak your foot in a mixture of apple cider vinegar and water for 10 minutes, twice a day. Vinegar is toxic to fungus, and it eats away at it quickly.
One of the easiest natural remedies for toenail fungus is to brush olive oil and oregano oil on the toenail in the morning and at night. Like vinegar, these oils seek out the fungus under the nail and kill it, which leaves the nail bed clean and healthy. Lemon grass or tea tree oil brushed on and around the nail will also destroy bacteria and fungus. Honey has antibacterial and antifungal properties that make it ideal for eliminating fungus. Rub it on the affected areas several times a day to see the quickest results.
Another natural product for curing toenail fungus is cornmeal. This is one of the most effective remedies, because cornmeal consists of microorganisms that can eat away at fungus. Pour approximately one inch of cornmeal into a bucket that is large enough to place your foot in. Cover the cornmeal with warm to hot water, and leave it alone for a half hour. Place your foot in the mixture, and add warm water until your foot is covered. Soaking your foot for an hour every week will drastically reduce the toenail fungus.
There are measures you can take in between treatments to optimize the effects of these natural remedies. Because fungus thrives in a moist environment, keeping your feet as dry as possible throughout the day will prevent it from spreading. Change your socks often if your feet sweat a lot. Wash around your toenails twice a day using soap and warm water, and dry your feet well. It is best to avoid pedicures, and do not use nail polish. To prevent the fungus from spreading to other people, do not share towels or washcloths.
Natural toenail fungus remedies are safer than chemically formulated medications, and they are often more effective. Most fungi are persistent, so treatment may take some time. If you are diligent in your efforts, you can find long-lasting success. While treating toenail fungus, it’s important to take measures to prevent new fungus from forming. Most natural treatments can be used with other types of medications, which may speed up the healing process as well. You no longer need to deal with the frustration of this unsightly fungus.
