Toenail fungus is also known as onychomycosis, and if you suffer from it, you know it can be embarrassing. Thick, yellow or brown crumbly toenails are the most common symptom. Standard medical treatments for toenail fungus include creams, topical ointments and oral medication. Since these treatments can be harsh as well as costly, many individuals with onychomycosis have turned to natural, home remedies as a treatment option. If you decide to go with a home remedy, you must be patient for positive results to manifest, as treating a toenail fungus can take months.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is produced when leaves of the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) are steam distilled and the oil is extracted. Tea tree oil is found to have antifungal properties, and is so effective that it begins to work against fungi within 24 hours, according to the August 2002 issue of the "Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy." To use tea tree oil on toenail fungus, put 4 drops of oil on the affected nail and rub it in with your fingers or cotton swabs. Be sure to get the oil under the nail bed and around the cuticles. If you need to wear shoes and socks soon after applying, cover the oiled toenail with a plastic bandage. Apply the tea tree oil two to three times per day for best results.
Vinegar
Vinegar lends itself to a variety of uses in the home, from cleaning windows to making salad dressings. Vinegar is also reported to have health benefits. The Mayo Clinic reports that vinegar is shown to slow or stop the growth of some strains of bacteria. To use vinegar to treat toenail fungus, mix 1 part vinegar to 2 parts hot water and soak the affected toenail in the solution for 15 minutes per day. You can also apply straight vinegar to your nail bed by saturating a cotton swab with the vinegar and rubbing it on the affected nail. Watch for skin irritation, and if you begin to notice redness, discontinue straight application on the nail, and soak your toenail no more than three times per week.
Vicks VapoRub
Vicks contains the essential oils of eucalyptol, menthol and camphor in a petrolatum base. According to a report from the People's Pharmacy, it is the combination of these oils together, rather than one single ingredient, that more than likely gives Vicks its toenail fungus-fighting properties. While Vicks does not have clinical studies to back up its effectiveness as a fungal fighter, it does have many testimonials from users over the years. To treat a toenail fungus with Vicks, simply rub it on the affected nail at least twice a day. If you find another vapor rub with the same active ingredients, it may work as well.
A Word of Caution
If you suffer from diabetes, you should always speak to your physician before self-treating any ailments on your toes or feet. The National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse reports that diabetes can affect your circulation and cause nerve damage in your extremities, requiring you to use caution when you experience problems, especially in your fingers, toes and feet. If you have what you believe to be a nail fungus, and are currently being treated for diabetes, speak to your physician before beginning any form of self-treatment.
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