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Quick And Easy Fix For Your Toenail Fungus: 8 Home Remedies

ByJennifer Trent MD, FAAD
toenail fungus

If you’re dealing with unsightly thick, discolored, or brittle toenails, you may be dealing with a condition caused by a fungal infection. But don’t worry! Several easy and effective home remedies can help you get rid of toenail fungus quickly. You have several options to combat this condition, from vinegar to tea tree oil, baking soda to over-the-counter antifungal emollients, and creams.

Furthermore, keeping your feet clean and dry and avoiding sharing personal grooming items can prevent the fungus from spreading. With a little effort and the right treatment tips and tricks, you’ll be able to say goodbye to toenail fungus and hello to healthy, beautiful nails.

Popular Home Remedies For Toenail Fungus

1. Oregano Oil

The compound called carvacrol in oregano oil is popular for its antifungal properties. This compound inhibits the growth of various fungi, including Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes, some of the causes of toenail fungus.

Also, oregano oil is capable of targeting and killing a wide range of microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses.

How To Use:

You can apply this oil directly to your affected nails or mix a few drops of oregano oil with any carrier oil and apply it to the affected area with a cotton swab. It can be the best treatment for toenail fungus.

2. White Vinegar

White vinegar or distilled vinegar is another ingredient that helps with toenail fungus due to its antifungal properties. The acetic acid in this ingredient acts as a warrior that kills fungi, bacteria, and other microorganisms. It can clear nail discolorations, like yellow toenails and white spots.

How To Use:

Combine equal parts of white vinegar and water in a bowl and soak the affected nails for 20 minutes. The acidic environment provided by the vinegar can make it difficult for the infection-causing fungus to survive in the nails.

3. Epsom Salt

The antifungal properties of Epsom salt or magnesium sulfate can give you relief from toenail fungus. The magnesium in Epsom salt dries out your skin and makes that area non-suitable for fungi’s survival.

How To Use:

Mix Epsom salt with warm water and soak your infected nails in it for 20 minutes.

4. Neem Leaves

Neem, also known as Azadirachta indica, is a potential natural remedy for toenail fungus. The compounds called azadirachtin and nimbidin in neem leaves have antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of various fungi, including Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes.

How To Use:

Grind neem leaves to create a paste, and mix it with coconut oil. Now, apply the entire paste to the affected area and leave it on for a few minutes. You can do this daily to treat your toenail fungus.

5. Basil Leaves

Basil, also known as Ocimum basilicum, is commonly used in cooking. But basil leaves can also be one of the home remedies for toenail fungus. Compounds called eugenol, linalool, and methyl chavicol in basil leaves have antifungal properties, which make them a great remedy for treating toenail fungus. These compounds inhibit the spread of infection-causing fungi on your nails.

How To Use:

Pick fresh basil leaves and grind them to create a paste first. Then, mix it with coconut oil, apply it to the infected nails, and leave it on for a few minutes. You can get better results with daily use.

6. Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus oil from the leaves of the eucalyptus tree has antifungal properties. The active compound, eucalyptol, in eucalyptus oil is capable of treating the toenail fungus effectively. Eucalyptus oil can also be an effective solution for various fungal skin infections like ringworm and athlete’s foot.

How To Use:

Apply this oil directly to the affected nails or mix a few drops with any carrier oil, such as olive oil, and apply it to the affected nails.

7. Clove Oil

Clove oil, derived from the clove plant, is known for its antifungal properties. The active compound in clove oil, eugenol, is capable of putting a full stop to the growth of various fungi that create infections in your toenail.

How To Use:

To use this oil for toenail fungus, mix a few drops of clove oil with coconut oil and apply it to the affected nails with a cotton swab. Use it on a daily basis for faster results. 

8. Lemongrass Oil

Lemongrass oil, derived from the lemongrass plant, contains active compounds called citral and geraniol. The antifungal properties of this oil kill the infection-causing fungi.

How To Use:

To use this ingredient for toenail fungus, combine a few drops of lemongrass oil and olive or coconut oil and gently apply the resulting oil to the infected nails.

Treat It Right At The Right Time

Do a patch test before applying these ingredients to your nails because they may sometimes create irritations. Consult a doctor if you have any medical conditions, severe pain, or irritation or are taking any medications. Treating it at the initial stage with the perfect treatment will help avoid various health issues.

FAQs

Q: Is it really easy to treat toenail fungus with home remedies?

A: The effectiveness of these natural homemade remedies may vary from person to person, and it may take some time to show you better results. The results may vary based on the severity of the infection and the type of remedy used. So, wait patiently and enjoy the results.

Q: How to prevent toenail fungus from recurring?

A: You can prevent it by keeping your feet clean and dry, wearing shoes or sandals in communal areas, and avoiding walking barefoot in damp environments. Also, check the tools used in your nail salon for safety purposes.

References

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