7 Remedies To Fight Against Nail Fungus
To avoid the proliferation of fungal infections, it is very important to keep these areas dry and clean, because humidity promotes their appearance and development.
Infections due to nail fungus on the feet and hands are medically known as onychomycosis.
This condition can cause discoloration, peeling and weakening of these parts of the body.
Because of the environment in which it thrives, this fungal infection is very common. It affects about 3 to 4% of the population, men being the most affected.
In addition, nail fungus tends to be more common on the feet than on the hands, due to shoes, socks or exposure to humid environments, which are conducive to their proliferation.
These conditions are quite embarrassing and unsightly because of the symptoms produced and the way in which they weaken the nail.
Treatment to remove nail fungus can be boring and takes time to be fully effective.
So, if you are suffering from nail fungus, read this article to find out about home remedies that can cure it.
1. Apple vinegar
The acid in apple cider vinegar is an active compound that helps eradicate yeast infection. Thus, it works equally well on the fingernails as the toenails.
The alkaline properties of apple cider vinegar regulate the pH of the skin. They therefore alter the conditions that favor the spread of yeast infection.
How to use it ?
- Prepare a mixture of two equal doses of apple cider vinegar and water, and soak your feet in it for 15 or 20 minutes.
- When the treatment is finished, dry your feet and the treated areas well, and apply a moisturizer.
2. Garlic
This ingredient has an important antibiotic and antimicrobial action, which promotes the elimination of germs and fungal infections, to prevent infections.
How to use it ?
- Crush 10 garlic cloves until a paste forms, then put it in a container with lukewarm water. Let it sit for a few minutes and soak your feet in it for 15 minutes.
- Another good option is to mix the garlic paste with olive oil, and apply it to the nails affected by yeast infection, leaving it on for 30 minutes.
3. Plain yogurt
Cultivation of active bacteria, also known as probiotics, is very effective in treating infections caused by yeast infections.
How to use it ?
- Take some plain yogurt, apply it on the affected nails and wait for it to dry before removing it with lukewarm water.
- In addition to that, consume yogurt every day, in the morning and / or in the evening.
4. Tea tree essential oil
Thanks to its strong natural antiseptic action, this oil improves the health of the feet and hands, while eliminating all types of microorganisms.
Topical use of tea tree essential oil in a 10% concentration may be as effective as antifungal creams in relieving athlete’s foot.
How to use it ?
- Apply a small drop of oil to the area affected by the yeast infection, two or three times a day.
- This ingredient should not be consumed orally as it can cause side effects like confusion, rash, coma, unsteadiness and inability to walk.
5. The Vicks VapoRub
The popular ointment that is used to decrease flu and cold symptoms also has properties that can be helpful in treating nail fungus.
How to use it ?
- Wash and dry the area you are going to treat and then apply a small amount of this ointment making sure it penetrates well.
- Repeat the treatment twice a day, preferably before going to sleep so that it works during the night.
6. Baking soda
This alkaline ingredient helps fight fungal infections and other microorganisms that affect nail health.
How to use it ?
- Prepare a paste of baking soda and lemon juice, and apply it directly to the affected areas.
- You can also use this white powder by sprinkling it inside your shoes, to fight against the microorganisms that lodge there.
7. Lemon juice
Its antibiotic and antimycotic qualities make it an excellent ally for effectively eliminating mycoses.
How to use it ?
- Extract the juice from several lemons and soak the affected areas in this juice.
- Another simpler option is to rub the lemon directly on the affected nail.
