Nail fungus is a very common problem, and toenails are more prone to nail infections. However, it is essential to keep your hands and feet clean at all times. Let your skin breathe and if you wear socks daily and all day long, make sure you wash your feet before bed because this laziness may cost you a lot of visits to a dermatologist.
The fungal infection tends to thrive under certain conditions, such as, unusual pH levels of the skin, a weakened immune system, prolonged exposure to sodden environment including sweat-soaked shoes and socks, poor hygiene and diabetes. But, you can get rid of nail fungus by opting for the following home remedies for nail infections
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV is acidic in nature and can keep nail fungus from spreading. In the meantime, it eliminates microorganisms and parasites.
- Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water. Soak your nails in this solution for 30 minutes. When done, dry your nails thoroughly. If you do this daily for a few weeks, you will notice improvement very quickly.
- Another option is to make an anti-fungal exfoliating scrub. Mix some rice flour with a couple spoons of apple juice vinegar to make a thick paste. Apply this paste to the affected nail and gently scrub the area. Do this 2-3 times every week. This remedy will also eliminate the dead skin cells and keep your skin soft.
2. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antiseptic as well as anti-fungal properties. 1 out of 3 diabetics have nail fungus. This remedy is great for them if they have a nail fungal infection.
- After cleaning your fingernails or toenails thoroughly, pour a few drops of tea tree oil directly onto the affected area or soak a cotton ball in the oil. Apply to the affected nail pressing it gently but firmly so that the liquid comes out.
- Gently scrub the infected nail with the help of a toothbrush, so as to make sure the oil reaches deep into the nail.
- Let it dry. Continue this process for about 15-20 minutes.
3. White Vinegar
White vinegar is one of the best remedy to treat nail fungus because it fights the infection and restores pH.
- Blend one part of white vinegar with two parts of warm water.
- Soak the infected nail in this solution for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Wash and dry thoroughly.
- Repeat this procedure twice daily, till the fungus is gone.
4. Garlic
I personally prefer garlic to everything else. Not only when in trouble, but in normal routine as well. Rubbing a garlic clove on your nails makes your nails stronger and shinier. For nail fungus:
- Blend garlic oil with an equivalent amount of white vinegar.
- Apply this blend to the affected nail and cover the treated area with a bandage.
- Leave it on for a couple of hours before you unwrap.
- Repeat every day until the infection is cured.
5. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice has both antiseptic and anti-fungal properties. The citric acid present in the lemon juice helps stop the nail infection from spreading.
- Apply fresh lemon juice on the infected nail.
- Leave it on for around 30 minutes before washing it off with warm water.
6. Coconut Oil
Apply a thin layer of coconut oil to the infected area and let it absorb for at least 15 minutes.
Coconut oil is great for skin health, so there is no limit to how often you can use this treatment. Just make sure you aren’t allergic to coconuts, before applying this product to the sensitive area.
7. Baking Soda
Baking soda can help prevent fungus from growing and spreading. Mix baking soda with vinegar to make a soak to kill the nail fungus.
- Mix 1 cup of vinegar with enough water to soak in your toenail or fingernail. Soak for 15 minutes, and then dry thoroughly with a towel.
- Next, add 4-5 tablespoons of baking soda with enough water to soak the infected area in, and soak for 15 minutes. Pat nail completely dry with a towel.
- Do this twice a day.
- The idea is that, the vinegar will kill off the fungus, while the baking soda will then prevent the fungal growth.