Toenail fungus can be an embarrassing and persistent problem that many people suffer from. This problem can develop when fungi get under the nails, causing them to become thick, discolored and warped. There are a few symptoms you will want to watch out for if you think you may have toenail fungus. If your nails suffer from these issues, they may be infected:
- Thickened
- Dark, yellowish coloring
- Dull
- Distorted
- Brittle or ragged
If your nails are infected, they may also give off a slight foul odor and can separate from the nail bed. It is possible that you may feel pain in the infected areas as well. Once your nails are infected, it can persist for a long time if left untreated.
There are many over-the-counter medications that can be taken to help manage your toenail fungus problem, but many of these drugs can potentially damage your liver and have other harmful side-effects. If taking medications isn’t for you, here are 4 options you can use to remedy your toenail fungus problem.
1. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a natural disinfectant that can be bought at health food stores and some local supermarkets. To use, you will want to brush the oil on your affected nails twice a day for at least 60 days. The results won’t be immediate as your nail will need to grow out for the fungus to be destroyed. Tea tree oil also has many other uses, such as treating acne, athlete’s foot, allergic skin reactions.
2. Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit seed extract is a powerful anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agent that can help you eliminate your toenail fungus problem. The application method is exactly the same as tea tree oil, with 2 applications to the affected areas a day for at least 60 days. Grapefruit seed extract can also be taken orally to eliminate bacterial, fungal and viral infections as well.
3. Garlic
Garlic is one of the strongest anti-fungal agents grown in nature. To treat toenail fungus, you can crush a few cloves of garlic into a paste and spread it over the affected nails. Once the nails are covered with the paste, wrap them tightly with a piece of gauze bandages. The next morning, you can remove the bandages, rinse your feet in cold water and dry thoroughly. You can also eat a clove or two of garlic a day for additional health benefits. Just beware of the bad breath that will follow.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar
Soaking your feet in apple cider vinegar for 15-20 minutes a day may help rid your toenails of any fungal infection. This is due to the acidic nature of vinegar. Fungi love alkaline environments and will die off due to the acidic properties of apple cider vinegar. Not to worry though: vinegar isn’t acidic enough to damage your skin or nails. Once you are done soaking your feet, be sure to dry them thoroughly.
