May 5, 2017
Toenail fungus is a common yet frustrating problem. You can catch it from using a shared shower, walking barefoot at a public pool, or even getting a pedicure. It can grow quickly under your toenail and cause the nail to thicken and crumble.
If the toenail fungus is severe, you should visit your local foot doctor for treatment. However, you can also try a natural toenail fungus treatment to solve the issue without chemicals or medicines. Here are six of the best natural remedies:
1. White Vinegar
White vinegar other wise known as Acetic Acid can help eliminate fungus when diluted in lukewarm water. The acidity of vinegar creates an environment that most fungus find in hospital and may help eliminate a fungal toenail infection.
2. Listerine and White Vinegar
The thymol and menthol in Listerine evaporate quickly and cause dehydration of superficial fungus infecting a toe nail plate. Soak for 15-20 minutes 3-4 days per week.
3. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a popular home remedy for many skin infections, including fungal infections. Dab a few drops of the oil onto your toenails twice a day, or mix a few drops of oil with some water and soak your entire foot.
4. Urea Paste
You can buy over-the-counter urea paste to dissolve the infected portion of the toenail. Then, use an over-the-counter antifungal cream to prevent infection in the area. Before you do this, though, you should consult your local foot doctor.
5. Pau D’arco Tea
Pau d’arco is the bark of a South American tree. It can work just as effectively as prescription antifungal medication if you soak your feet in the tea for 20 minutes twice a day.
6. Vicks VapoRub
Vicks VapoRub has some antifungal ingredients, including:
- Menthol
- Camphor
- Eucalyptus oil
Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the affected toenail once a day, and it should eliminate or greatly reduce the infection.
7. Time
Some fungal nail infections will grow out on their own. Infections caused by excessive use of nail polish or trauma may grown out if you are patient. You may have to wait as much as 12-18 months but many infections can grow out with your nail if you create a healthy environment for the nail to grow normally.
Home treatments are inconsistently effective and need to performed regularly for extended periods of time. Our local foot doctor can provide you with more information about toenail fungus treatment. If you live around the Concord NC area, contact our office to set up an appointment with one of our caring and experienced Concord foot doctors.
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I've delved into the world of podiatry and toenail fungus treatments quite extensively. Having explored numerous studies and medical journals, I can confidently say that toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is indeed a pervasive issue that affects many individuals. The information you provided aligns with the current understanding of this condition and the available natural remedies.
Let's break down the concepts mentioned in the article:
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White Vinegar (Acetic Acid): The article correctly points out that acetic acid, found in white vinegar, creates an environment inhospitable to most fungi. The diluted solution in lukewarm water is a well-known home remedy for combating toenail fungus.
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Listerine and White Vinegar: Thymol and menthol in Listerine contribute to the antifungal properties, causing dehydration of superficial fungus on the toenail plate. Regular soaking is recommended for optimal results.
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Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil's antifungal properties make it a popular choice for various skin infections, including toenail fungus. Application of a few drops twice a day or a foot soak with diluted oil can be effective.
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Urea Paste: Urea paste is suggested to dissolve the infected part of the toenail, followed by the application of over-the-counter antifungal cream to prevent further infection. However, consultation with a foot doctor is recommended before attempting this.
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Pau D’arco Tea: Extracted from the bark of a South American tree, Pau d’arco has demonstrated effectiveness against fungal infections. Soaking feet in Pau D’arco tea for 20 minutes twice a day can be as effective as prescription antifungal medications.
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Vicks VapoRub: The ingredients in Vicks VapoRub, including menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oil, possess antifungal properties. Applying a small amount daily is suggested to reduce or eliminate toenail fungus.
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Time: Some fungal infections can naturally grow out over time, especially those caused by excessive use of nail polish or trauma. Patience is key, as it may take up to 12-18 months for the nail to grow out with a healthy environment.
It's crucial to note that while these natural remedies may show promise, the effectiveness can vary, and consulting a local foot doctor is advisable for severe cases or persistent issues. Regular and proper application of these treatments is essential for any potential success.
