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Toenail fungus home remedies

How can I get rid of toe nail fungus that I had for 7 years?
(17 Jan 2008)

Toenail fungus is otherwise referred to as Onychomycosis. Fungal infections involving the nails are a very common occurrence that is brought about by a certain group of fungi known as dermatophytes.  These particular fungi can prove to be very harmful, as they grow by feeding on the keratin; the substance from which nails are made.


A fungal infection of this sort can cause severe discoloration and disfiguration of the affected nails, which then becomes a cause for concern and not forgetting to mention embarrassment as well. This condition is contagious and can be spread through contact with an infected person. Symptoms of toenail fungus are; a yellowish brown color to the nails, thickening of the affected toe nail and a build up of bad smelling debris below the nail. The affected nail may at times crumble and ultimately fall off.

Here are a few home remedies that can help you get rid of the infection. Tea tree oil is excellent for treating this kind of an infection, as it acts a natural fungicide and antiseptic. Apply a few drops of the oil on the affected toe 2-3 times a day regularly. This treatment has to be carried out till you see visible results. As an alternative you could mix equal amounts of tea tree oil and olive oil, and then apply the mixture on the affected toe, as well as the area surrounding it. Mix together four drops each of lavender oil and tea tree oil. Dip a clean cotton ball in this mixture and use it to apply the mixture of the oils, onto the skin below the nails, as well around it. The lavender oil will help resist infection and reduce any kind of irritation.

 Mix together a liter each of apple cider vinegar and warm water. Soak your feet in this warm mixture for about 10-15 minutes. This remedy if performed consistently is also known to yield positive results.  A mixture that has been prepared by mixing a teaspoon of olive and 3-4 drops of oregano oil is also a great remedy. Apply the mixture on the toenail 3-4 times a day. Oregano oil possesses antifungal, analgesic, antiviral, antibacterial and antiseptic properties that will help in bringing about a speedy recovery. This treatment however, should not be performed for over a week. Rubbing the affected toe with an onion peel is also known to help. Finally, make sure that your feet are dry and free from moisture at all times.
answered by G M on 6 Apr 2010, 4:01:38

 

Toe nail fungus often takes lot of time to cure completely, however 7 years is a long period.

Try the following home remedies for toe nail fungus -

  • Tea tree oil has potent antibacterial and anti fungal properties, apply on the affected toe nail on regular basis to treat the fungus.
  • Soften the toe nail by soaking in a solution of warm water with 2 drops of baby shampoo or apple cider vinegar. Cut the protruding nail short in a straight direction and remove the dead skin with the help of a nail filer.
  • Toe nail fungus breeds in moist environment; preferably wear shoes which are open on the top side to allow proper air circulation. Completely avoid closed and packed shoes and wearing the same shoes for years. Keep changing your food wear for faster recovery.

 

Since you have the fungus from years it would be difficult to cure immediately. Have patience and follow the home remedies on regular basis, as your nail grows the fungus shall go slowly.

Refer the following link for more information -
www.home-remedies-for-you.com/remedy/Toe-nail-fungus.html

answered by Dr S on 27 Jan 2008, 11:01:04

 

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