If you have been battling toenail fungus, you know how difficult it is to treat. Prescription drugs exist that can eradicate the condition. However, they can sometimes cause side effects and are often expensive. Because of these issues, many people turn to home remedies to treat their infected toenails. Vicks VapoRub is one of the most often recommended home remedies for toenail fungus.
Symptoms
Fungal infected toenails will typically appear thick, brittle and discolored. If the infection is prolonged, nails may become misshapen and eventually separate from the nail bed. Sometimes the infected nails will fall off. Although losing a toenail is a disturbing experience, it may actually improve your chances of successful treatment. Nails provide a safe haven for fungus, which allows the fungus to thrive underneath them. The toenail will usually grow back after you eliminate the fungus from the nail bed.
Evidence
A 2003 in vitro study conducted by Michigan State University concluded that the ingredients camphor, menthol, thymol and eucalyptus oil -- which are found in Vicks VapoRub and the store brand vapor rub used in the study -- were effective against several types of fungal organisms. Although this study seems promising, further studies on humans are needed to prove the effectiveness of Vicks VapoRub on nail fungus. However, there are many anecdotal reports of success using the product. Because of this, and its low cost and easy accessibility Vicks VapoRub may be worth a try.
Procedure
There are no manufacturer's instructions for the use of Vicks VapoRub on toenail fungus, as this is not the intended use of the product. However, proponents of this home remedy recommend the following procedure: Clean your feet first, and then dry them thoroughly with a disposable paper towel. Dip a clean cotton swab into a tub of Vicks VapoRub. Apply the rub to the tops and under the free edges of the infected toenails. Repeat the process twice daily.
Time Frame
Like most toenail fungus remedies, Vicks VapoRub treatments may take a considerable amount of time to be effective. Although some people report seeing effects within days of using Vicks VapoRub, the consensus is that it takes several months of continued use to completely eliminate toenail fungus. Do not stop treatment until all signs of infection have disappeared.
Warnings
Not all toenail infections are cause by fungus. Get a diagnosis by your health care provider prior to beginning treatment. Stop using Vicks VapoRub and call your doctor if any irritation occurs. Do not use Vicks VapoRub on children under the age of two. Consult your doctor before using if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
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