According to MayoClinic.com, nail fungal infections are typically caused by a fungus that belongs to a group of fungi called dermatophytes. Dermatophytes thrive in dark, damp and humid conditions like those surrounding your toenails but can also breed on your fingernails. In worst-case scenarios, infected nails can detach from the nail bed, causing a condition called onycholysis. Cranberry juice has antifungal properties that can deter nail fungus and promote personal health in general.
Benzoic Acid
According to a study done by Jacob H. Swartz and Theodore F. Medrek from the Departments of Dermatology and Bacteriology, Massachusetts General Hospital, published in the October 1968 issue of "American Society for Microbiology," benzoic acid in cranberry juice is the key ingredient in killing off dermatophytes. Their study showed that cranberry juice has an in-vitro antifungal effect on eight representative species of dermatophytes.
Diluted Cranberry Juice vs. Pure Cranberry Juice
The study published in the "American Society for Microbiology" also show that benzoic acid in cranberry juice loses some of its antifungal properties when blended with other ingredients commonly found in store-bought versions. Blending cranberry juice causes the pH balance to change and makes it less potent as an antifungal agent than when pure. Therefore, you should treat your nail fungus with pure cranberry juice rather than store-bought versions with added sugars. The higher the dilution, the less effective it becomes.
Immune Booster
MayoClinic.com lists a myriad of other health benefits that cranberry juice provides for you. It works as an antioxidant, cancer fighter and battles urinary tract infections, or UTIs, among other things that all boost your body's immune system. This is important in fighting off nail fungus because when there is a lack of blood circulation to your feet, it makes it harder for your body's immune system to locate and treat nail fungus.
Member Comments