Home Remedies for Nail Fungus: Treating and Preventing Fungal Infections
Onychomycosis, a common medical condition that affects both fingernails and toenails, is also referred to as nail fungus. It is a fungal infection that can cause the nails to crumble, thicken, and change color.
While seeking medical advice is always advised for an accurate diagnosis and course of treatment, some DIY home remedies for nail fungus can help control and lessen fungus symptoms.
Home Remedies for Nail Fungus
1. Turmeric Paste
The antifungal compound curcumin is found in turmeric.
How to prepare:
Apply a paste made of turmeric powder and water to the diagnosed nails. Rinse after 30 minutes of leaving on. Do it every day.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Because apple cider vinegar has antifungal qualities, it is a popular home remedy for nail fungus.
How to prepare:
In a basin, combine equal parts water and apple cider vinegar. Soak the afflicted nails in the mixture for 15 to 20 minutes every day. The fungus’s habitat becomes uninhabitable by the vinegar’s acidity.
3. Tea Tree Oil
The antifungal and antiseptic qualities of tea tree oil are widely recognized.
How to prepare:
Using a cotton ball or swab, apply a few drops of tea tree oil directly to the affected nails. To see results, repeat this procedure twice a day for a few weeks.
4. Baking Soda
Nail fungus can be treated with baking soda, an adaptable ingredient with antifungal qualities.
How to prepare:
Make a paste by combining baking soda and water, then apply it straight onto the nails that are impacted. After leaving it on for 10 to 15 minutes, rinse and completely dry.
5. Coconut Oil
Medium-chain fatty acids found in coconut oil have antifungal properties.
How to prepare:
Several times a day, massage the surrounding skin and affected nails with pure, organic coconut oil. Coconut oil moisturizes the skin and nails in addition to helping in the fight against the fungus.
6. Listerine Foot Soak
Treating nail fungus may also benefit from Listerine mouthwash’s antifungal qualities.
How to prepare:
Use undiluted Listerine to soak those with painful nails for 15 to 20 minutes every day. The mouthwash’s antifungal and antiseptic components are work together to help control the fungus.
Read: Home Remedies for Vaginal Itching
7. Proper Foot and Nail Hygiene
To prevent and treat nail fungus, maintaining proper foot and nail hygiene is essential. This involves using fresh, breathable socks, keeping the feet dry and clean, and routinely filing and trimming the nails.
Another way to lower your risk of fungal infections is to avoid going barefoot in public places like gyms, locker rooms, and swimming pools.
8. Oregano Oil
Nail fungus may respond well to the antifungal and antibacterial qualities of oregano oil.
How to prepare:
Apply oregano oil to the crippled nails with a cotton ball after diluting it with carrier oil, such as coconut oil. After about 30 minutes, leave it on and thoroughly rinse and dry.
9. Hydrogen Peroxide
Nail fungus can be treated with hydrogen peroxide, which has antiseptic qualities.
How to prepare:
In a basin, combine equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water, then soak those with affected nails for 15 to 20 minutes. After that, make sure the nails are completely dry to avoid moisture accumulation, which could make the fungus worse.
10. White Vinegar
Because of its acidic nature, white vinegar, like apple cider vinegar, may help to create an environment that is unfavorable to nail fungus.
How to prepare:
In a bowl, combine equal parts white vinegar and water, then soak those with sore nails for 15 to 20 minutes every day. To avoid moisture retention, thoroughly dry the nails after soaking.
11. Garlic
Nail fungus may be treated with the help of garlic’s related antifungal qualities.
How to prepare:
To make a paste, crush a few garlic cloves and combine them with olive oil. Wrap the injured nails with a bandage after applying the paste. After a few hours, leave it on and thoroughly rinse and dry.
12. Maintain a Healthy Diet
The immune system, which is essential for keeping off fungal infections, can be strengthened by eating a diet high in vitamins, minerals, and probiotics.
To support general health and immunity, include foods like yogurt, garlic, ginger, and leafy green vegetables in your diet.
