Effective Home Remedies For Nail Fungal Infections.

Most nail infections are caused by a fungus. The condition is called onychomcosis and it causes the

nail to become painful,  discoloured, thick and crumbled. It is very difficult to get rid of even after using expensive anti-fungal creams. It can go on for years after spending a lot of money on medications and time, returning after the treatment given. It occurs more often on the toenails because it grows in dark, moist environments.

Home remedies are cheap and can be very effective for getting rid of toenail fungus. Fungi are very hard to kill, so it is always necessary to treat it internally and topically. Most treatments that are focused on just applying topical creams fail when there is no oral remedy to support it. This is the most common reason why the infection returns after some time.  Before starting on treatment, trim down the affected nail or nails and file down so that you expose as much skin below the nail as possible. Remove dead skin and always keep the affected area dry.

Home remedies for nail fungal infection.

1. Apple cider vinegar is one of the best remedies for nail fungus because it balances the pH of the body and skin, making it unfavourable for the fungi to grow. It also has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties and so, will kill the fungi and also prevent infections by other microorganisms. Apple cider vinegar will also relieve pain and soothe itching. For a foot soak, mix 1 cup of apple cider vinegar to 6 cups of warm water and a cup of Epsom salt in a bowl. Soak your feet for about 30 minutes daily until the infection clears up. For drinking, mix 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 1 cup of warm water and drink daily. You may apply apple cider vinegar with a cotton ball to the affected area 3 times daily if you do not have the time for a foot bath.
2. Baking soda is alkaline while most fungi thrive in acidic environments, so baking soda prevents the growth of toenail fungus. It is more effective when it is paired together with anti-fungal agents like vinegar and coconut oil. Make a foot bath by mixing 5-6 tablespoons ofbaking soda, 1 cup of apple cider vinegar and 6 cups of warm water. Soak your feet for 30 minutes. You can make a paste of baking soda and apple cider vinegar to apply on the affected area 3 times daily. Apply the paste and secure with a band aid.
3. Olive leaf extract has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-virus properties so it is effective against nail fungal infection.
4. Neem leaves have antimicrobial properties which make neem very potent against numerous
   
   
   diseases and infections. Make an infusion with neem leaves; drink about half cup daily and use as a foot bath. You may apply the juice of the leaves on the nail 3 times daily.
5. Oils with antimicrobial properties are effective too in combating nail infections. You can apply one oil on its own or a combination of oils. Below are some oils that you can use;

• Coconut oil.
• Tea tree oil.
• Garlic oil or grated garlic.
• Oregano oil.
• Neem oil.

These home remedies work but take time. Getting rid of nail fungal infection takes time and dedication. It is important to keep your feet clean and dry because the fungus likes moisture. Avoid wearing socks and shoes for long periods of time. Wash your hands before and after applying treating your nails so that you do not infect other areas.

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