Nail fungus can be both a tedious and tenacious problem to fight. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are many home remedies that provide an alternative to oral or topical anti-fungal medications. They caution that immune-compromised people should see a doctor at the first signs of nail fungus. Other people, however, can benefit from trying home remedies.
Vick's
The Mayo Clinic suggests Vick's Vaporub as a popular home cure for nail fungus. This versatile substance was developed in the 1890s for chest cough, but it has found many other uses, especially as an antifungal agent. Apply twice daily with a cotton swab. The reason it works is likely due to the essential oils it contains, such as camphor, eucalyptus, and menthol.
Oil of Oregano
This essential oil from the leaves of the oregano plant is effective for killing viruses, bacteria and fungi, according to the "at-home cure" website Granny Med. Ancient Greeks used it to relieve rashes, and it is still thought of as a powerful antifungal and antimicrobial substance. Apply a tiny amount to the affected area twice daily. The product, and other essential oils, can be diluted with a different oil--such as olive oil. Like many essential oils, oil of oregano is high in compounds called terpenes, which may disrupt the cell membranes of fungal cells, Granny Med asserts.
Tea Tree Oil
The leaves of the Australian tea tree are distilled to make tea tree oil. A little goes a long way. Tea tree oil is a powerful way to fight fungal infections. In Australia, it can be found in many medications for this purpose. Apply to the affected area twice daily. Since fungal infections have a high rate of recurrence, it is important to use the remedy until the new healthy nail has grown out, advises Granny Med.
Other Remedies
Cure your toenail fungus faster, and keep it from coming back, by keeping toenails short; sterilizing files and trimmers; changing socks often; keeping nails clean and dry, for instance with a hair dryer; and alternating different pairs of shoes, according to the My Home Remedies website.
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