Posted on September 12, 2008 in Common Ailments
Toe nail fungus is one of the common ailments affecting your nails. In medical terminology toe nail fungus is called as Onychomycosis. Toe nail fungus can be described as fungal infection of nails causing discoloration of nails. Due to fungal infection the infected nail turns yellow or brown in color. Toe nail fungus is contagious ailment yet it can be treated easily with home remedies.
Causes of Toe Nail Fungus:
There are various possible reasons for the development of toe nail fungus. Some of the major factors are listed below:
- Poor foot hygiene
- Hereditary factors
- Suitable environment for the growth of fungus, mold or yeast
- Previous toe injury
- Poor air circulation
- Sweaty and dirty shoes and socks
- Abnormal skin pH
- Diabetes
Symptoms of Toe Nail Fungus:
Besides toe nail the fungal infection can affect any fingernail. Some of the common symptoms associated to toe nail fungus are listed below:
- Discoloration of nails
- Swelling
- Thickening
- Crumbling of nails
- Yellowing
- Spots or streaks on the sides of nails
- In rare cases complete loss of the nail
Home Remedies for Toe Nail Fungus:
Toe nail fungus can be easily eradicated with the help of simple and effective home remedies. Some of the most effective and simple home remedies straight from your kitchen to cure toe nail fungus are listed below:
- Vinegar: Vinegar is the most effective remedy to get rid of toe nail fungus. Soak your infected toe in solution containing vinegar. You will observe improvement in couple of week’s time.
- Tea Tree Oil: Mix tea tree oil and olive oil and apply this mixture directly on the affected toe. Tea tree oil acts a potent natural fungicide and antiseptic hence effective in fighting toe nail fungus.
- Mouthwash: You can even soak your affected toes in mouthwash. Mouthwash is strong antiseptic hence curing toe nail fungus.
- Apple Cider Vinegar and Water: Mix equal amount of apple cider vinegar and lukewarm water in a basin. Now soak your infected toe in the solution and leave it for 15-20 minutes. Make sure that you dry your feet and toe completely with the help of clean towel.
- Oregano and Olive Oil: To 1 tsp of olive oil blend 2 drops of oregano essential oil. Apply directly this mixture on the infected toe. Make sure that you repeat this remedy daily but not exceeding 3 weeks. The essential oil of oregano has antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial, antiseptic, analgesic and anti-parasitical properties.
- Lavender Oil and Tea Tree Oil: Mix equal quantity of lavender oil and tea tree oil and with the help of a cotton swab apply this mixture on toe nail fungus. Tea tree oil has potent antibiotic properties whereas lavender oil prevents skin irritation and infection.
- Diet: With the help of few dietary changes also you can fight symptoms of toe nail fungus. All you need to do is to include probiotics or good bacteria. The rich source of probiotics is yogurt and kefir. Try to avoid foods rich in refined carbs like dairy products and sugar.
- Maintain Good Hygiene: Try to maintain good hygiene. Try to take good care of your foot. Make sure that you use clean and dry towel to dry your foot. Use comfortable and right footwear. It is better to wear cotton socks and make sure that your feet get proper air circulation.
These were few very simple yet effective home remedies to cure your toe nail fungus. In case your toe nail fungus gets worse then it is advisable to visit your nearest podiatrist immediately.
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