According to the dictionary, any fungal-related disease or infection is known as mycosis. Therefore, onychomycosis is a fungal infection that affects the toenails of our body. It does affect the fingernails as well, but it is the toenails that are generally infected.


The fungus that causes onychomycosis is known as dermatophytes. Fungus grows and thrives in warm, moist places. Therefore, if nails are subjected to such an environment on a regular basis, the chances of fungi developing on the nails or under it increase.


There are three different types of fungal infection that affects the nails. Depending on which fungal infection it is, the nails turn brittle and change their color to yellow, brown, grey, or even black. Apart from becoming brittle and cracking, in extreme cases the nail may also separate itself from its nail bed. Thankfully, having onychomycosis will not affect the health of person severely. However, it is quite painful, making it difficult to work (in case of finger nails) and move around (in case of toe nails) properly. If not taken care of immediately, it also leads to disfigurement of the finger and toe nails, which in turn could lead to embarrassment especially in social settings. It can also lead to secondary infections which may have dire consequences.  

If the nail is on the verge of separating from the nail bed, then it is essential that you consult a physician immediately to take care of this aliment. However, if onychomycosis has just set in, this is what you can do at home. Pour 5-6 drops of tea tree oil in warm water and soak your nails in this solution for 10-15 minutes. Tea tree oil has anti-fungal properties that will take care of the fungus. If you don’t want to soak your nails in warm water, apply tea tree oil directly to your nails and gently massage it in. Clean your nails regularly with only vinegar or with vinegar mixed in water (in equal quantities). Vinegar contains an ingredient known as acetic acid, which is perfect for fighting the fungi. Since the fungus usually resides between the nail and the nail bed, it is not easy for any of these ingredients to soak in and reach the fungus. So, even if it looks as if the fungus has disappeared, you will need to continue cleaning the nails or applying these solutions to the nails for some time to ensure that the fungus does not reoccur. Also, keep your nails as clean and dry as possible.