Toenail fungus is a type of fungal infection that can cause pain, inflammation and even crumble the toenail. Anyone can contract this kind of infection due to low immunity, poor hygiene, and excessive exposure to moisture or even contamination from public places such as swimming pools or gyms. You can try prescription medicines to treat it, which can cause side effects such as skin problems and dizziness. Alternatively, you can use natural toenail fungus remedies.
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Here are five natural toenail fungus remedies that you can use to treat the infection.
Apple Cider Vinegar
One of the best home remedies for toenail fungus is to use apple cider vinegar on the affected area on your toe. Add 4-5 tsp of apple cider vinegar in half a bucket of warm water. Soak your feet in this solution for 15-20 minutes for relief from fungal infection. Vinegar is antibacterial and antifungal, which helps to remove the fungus effectively. You can also use white vinegar for this foot soak. You can also make exfoliating scrubs using vinegar and cornmeal or rice flour. Cornmeal contains microbes that inhibit the growth of some fungus. Rice flour is gentle in composition and can remove the rough skin without inflaming the toe further.
Garlic
You may not want to use garlic because of the smell. But garlic has potent antifungal properties and can be one of the most effective toenail fungus remedies. Garlic is very effective in removing signs of infection from the body. You can use crushed garlic directly over the infected toe and wrap a cotton bandage around it. Alternatively, you can take garlic tablets or supplements and use other natural remedies for toenail fungus for topical application. Even if you are bothered by its smell, try to use it as it is one of the best natural toenail fungus remedies.
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Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil for toenail fungus is an effective remedy as it has antiseptic and powerful antifungal properties. Use a cotton wool to dab tea tree oil directly on your infected toenail. You can also add a few drops of tea tree oil in warm water to use as a foot soak. Topical application of ointments containing this oil may also help.
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Lemon Juice
Lemon contains citric acid, which is effective in treating infections. Lemon juice works as a toenail fungus remedy due to its antiseptic properties. You can use it directly over your infected nail, leave it on for 15-20 minutes and then wash off with water. You can also mix it with coconut or olive oil before application
Baking Soda
Baking soda is alkaline in nature so it can prevent the fungal infection from spreading. You can sprinkle the powder directly over the infected toe and keep it on for a few hours if possible. Wear a sock over it if you need to walk or work during this time. You can also make a paste of baking soda by mixing it with a little water and then use it on the toe. You can even soak your foot in warm water mixed with baking soda and Epsom salt.
Natural toenail fungus remedies are more effective when you use a combination of at least two natural treatments together.
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