If you’re tired of looking at your toenails and feeling like they’ve taken over your life, it’s time to stop messing around. Toenail fungus is a persistent and stubborn condition that will not go away easily. And while antifungal ointments and oral medications are highly effective, they can have unpleasant side effects.
The good news is that there are many different types of home remedies for toenail fungus that work just as well. So, if you’re looking for some natural ways to eliminate the pain and embarrassment of having your toes look like they belong on Frankenstein, give the following home remedies a try.
10. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural disinfectant that has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. It can be used to treat skin and nail infections. Just mix 1-part vinegar with 2-parts warm water and soak your feet for 20 minutes daily. Alternatively, you can use apple cider vinegar directly on the affected nails for about 15 minutes once or twice daily until the fungus clears up.
9. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is one of the most potent oils you can use to fight nail fungus. Its active ingredients have been shown to be effective against a variety of fungi and bacteria. When applied topically to your nails, oregano oil will kill the fungus responsible for causing nail rot and discoloration. Mix 2-3 drops of oregano oil with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, apply it to the affected nails and leave it on for about 30 minutes, then wash it off with soap and water. Repeat this twice daily until your nail is completely clear of fungus.
8. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a great alternative to conventional antifungal treatments because it has potent antifungal properties. In fact, it’s been used for centuries to treat fungal infections. Simply apply some coconut oil directly to the infected nails. It will help slow down the growth of fungus, while adding extra moisture to the surrounding skin to keep it soft and healthy.
7. Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide is another great and inexpensive remedy to treat fungus. You can soak your feet in a mixture of equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water for 10 to 20 minutes daily, or apply some directly to the infected toenails. Just keep in mind that you shouldn’t use hydrogen peroxide in concentrations more than 3 percent.
6. Black Tea
Black tea is an astringent, so it will help dry out the fungus and reduce swelling. The polyphenols in black tea are powerful antioxidants that fight fungus, while also providing anti-inflammatory effects. Simply brew some black tea, let it cool down, and soak your feet for 10 to 30 minutes. Then rinse them off with water and pat dry with a clean towel. You can do this daily for best results.
5. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has been used for centuries to treat fungal infections, including toenail fungus. Simply mix 2-3 drops of tea tree oil with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, apply it to the infected area, and rub it in until absorbed. You should do this twice daily until the fungus clears up; which can take anywhere from 4 weeks to 3 months.
4. Olive Leaf Extract
You can use olive leaf extract as a topical treatment for toenail fungus as its anti-fungal properties make it highly effective at fighting the infection. To prepare this remedy, mix 1 teaspoon of olive leaf extract with 1 tablespoon of olive oil or coconut oil. Apply this mixture up to 3 times daily on the effected nails until the fungus is gone.
3. Epsom Salt
Epsom salt is a naturally occurring compound that can be used to treat toenail fungus. It also helps to loosen and soften the skin of your feet, which makes it easier to trim your nails and prevent further infections. To use Epsom salt as a foot soak, add 1 cup of Epsom salt to warm water and soak your feet for 30 minutes daily until symptoms improve. You can even add a few drops of lavender oil to this foot soak to enhance its antifungal properties. It will smell great too.
2. White Vinegar
White vinegar is one of the cheapest, easiest, and most effective home remedies. It’s also acidic, which makes it a great weapon against fungus. You can soak your nails in a mixture of 1-part white vinegar and 2-parts warm water, or you can use straight white vinegar by applying it directly to your nails for 15 minutes every couple of days until the infection is gone.
1. Garlic
Garlic is a powerful antifungal that can be used to treat nail fungus. The allicin present in garlic helps reduce inflammation, thereby alleviating pain and discomfort associated with the condition. To treat your toenail fungus, mix 1 clove of crushed fresh garlic into four tablespoons of olive oil, and apply this mixture to your affected nails for no longer than 30 minutes daily for up to two months.
If you have a case of toenail fungus, know that you can free yourself from its grip with these effective home remedies. Also, remember that fungus thrives in dark and moist environments and can spread through contact with infected shoes or towels. So make sure to keep these items clean and dry, and don’t share them with other people. If you have diabetes or a compromised immune system; or if these natural treatments don’t work for you or cause side effects, it’s best to consult your physician for the appropriate course of action.
