Fungus under or on a toenail can be unsightly and difficult to treat. A nail fungal infection, also called onychomycosis, can affect both the nails of the fingers and toes, and is caused by the fungi dermatophyte. The Mayo Clinic says that a fungal infection can cause the nails to become, gray, yellow or brown and thick, brittle and uneven. The Healthier Life web site recommends vinegar as a common home remedy for a fungus on the toenail. People can use vinegar in conjunction with a topical anti-fungal cream to help clear the infection faster. Treating a nail infection can require daily treatment for up to several months.
Step 1
Fill a bucket with enough warm water to soak the foot. Add 2 tbsp. to 4 tbsp. of vinegar to the water to make a vinegar solution. Place the foot with the affected toenail into the water and let it soak for at least 20 minutes.
Step 2
Remove the foot from the vinegar solution and dry it thoroughly with a towel.
Remove the cap from a prescription anti-fungal cream, and apply it to the affected toenail, making sure that the cream covers the nail. Use a cotton swab to place the medicated anti-fungal cream at the tip and as far under the nail as possible.
Step 3
Allow the anti-fungal cream to remain on the toenail and let it air dry. Wrap the toe and nail with plastic wrap if you must wear shoes or socks. Wash hands thoroughly after treatment to avoid spreading the infection to other nails. Repeat this treatment on a regular basis until the infection has cleared.
Tips and Warnings
- Using vinegar directly on the toenail by applying it with a cotton swab may also help treat the fungal infection.
- A nail fungal infection can persist for up to a year. If topical anti-fungal cream and vinegar treatments do not help clear the infection, or if it also spreads to other nails or the skin between the toes, a doctor may also prescribe an oral anti-fungal medication.
Things You'll Need
- White vinegar
- Measuring spoon
- Warm water
- Bucket
- Towel
- Prescription anti-fungal cream
- Cotton swab
- Plastic wrap
- Soap
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