If you notice nail fungus developing, you want to take a quick course of action. For some this may mean seeing a doctor. But what if you cannot get in to see a doctor or donât want to? There are many home treatment options available for nail fungus.
What Is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus is an infection of the nail that is caused by micro-organisms becoming trapped under the nail. In some cases, the nail may become yellow and brittle. In order to prevent the fungus from spreading or becoming worse, fast and effective treatment is key.
Home Treatment Options For Nail Fungus
There are several available options for home treatment of nail fungus. Keep in mind that home treatments should never be used as a substitute to proper medical care. If you think you need to see a doctor, you should do so promptly.
Vinegar
Vinegar has many uses in your household. It can be used in things from cooking to cleaning. But did you know that it can be used to treat nail fungus?
Simply use a cotton ball and wipe the affected nails 2-3 times a day. Make sure to do this after you eat a meal if your fingernails are the nails affected.
It typically takes anywhere from 3-5 days to see some results, although it could be longer.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil. It has been scientifically tested and proven to aide in the treatment of nail fungus.
Use a q-tip and apply the tea tree oil to your affected nails 2 times a day. It is recommended that you use tea tree oil solely on toenail fungus. Tea tree oils, like all other essential oils, is toxic, even if ingested in small amounts. So take extreme care when you use it.
Mouthwash
As most people know, mouthwash has antibacterial properties. It is effective in aiding in the treatment of nail fungus.
Fill a spray bottle with 50% water and 50% Listerine and spray the affected nails twice a day. Results have been reported in as little as 3 days.
Oregano and Olive Oil
Mix 2 drops of oregano essential oil with a teaspoon of olive oil. Apply the solution to the affected nails once daily. It should be used for no longer then 3 weeks.
Oregano oil has antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-parasitical, antiviral, and antifungal properties.
Garlic and Vitamin C
Garlic has long been known as a natural antibiotic. Taken properly, it can help ward off things such as infections. Since nail fungus is essentially an infection of the nail, take the garlic capsule with vitamin c. This packs the double punch of getting rid of the infection and protecting your immune system.
Take 1 garlic capsule with vitamin C, once daily. Remember to consult your doctor before beginning this regiment.
Rubbing Alcohol
You use rubbing alcohol to cleanse your cuts and keep them free from infection. Even though nail fungus is typically under the nail, you can get the same results when it comes to home treatment of nail fungus.
You can use either rubbing alcohol pads or liquid rubbing alcohol. Wipe the affected area 2 times a day and let air dry. You can use this in conjunction with other nail fungus home treatment options.
Diet
Believe it or not, diet plays a part in treating nail fungus. Just as with any other types of infections, your body needs the tools to help fight them off.
Make sure to eat a diet that is full of probiotics –good bacteria–to help your body ward off infection. Great sources of probiotics are foods such as yogurt and kefir. Reduce the amount of refined carbs such as sugar, dairy and vinegar. Try to incorporate olive leaf extract into your diet. This is an excellent internal anti-fungal agent.
As always before trying any home treatments, check with your doctor.