Toenail fungus is a common condition, in fact one of the most common problems that affect feet. It occurs when fungus inhabit the nail bed and the skin around the toenail and start growing. It causes discoloration of the nail, foul smell and nail deformities. In severe cases, the nail may even fall off.
There are many treatment options for the toenail fungus. Some involve antifungal ointments, and there are also surgical options, which usually include laser treatment. But there are also natural options for the treatment of toenail fungus.
Nutritional supplements against toenail fungus
Including certain nutrients and their supplements in daily diet can improve the condition of toenail affected by fungus by making the environment less friendly for the fungus, and also by strengthening the immune system so it can fight the fungus on its own.
Acidophilus supplements restore the positive balance of the so called “friendly” bacteria that inhibit various pathogens, including fungi. Two capsules of acidophilus powder should be taken on empty stomach every day.
It is recommended to take multivitamins which contain B complex vitamins, as well as the vitamins A and E. it is also important to increase the intake of vitamin C. the recommended intake is 3.000 milligrams of this vitamin, along with bioflavonoids, each day.
Zinc is also important, as it increases the immune response, repairs the skin and inhibits fungi.
Home remedies for toenail fungus
Apple cider vinegar has been proven effective against this condition. It can be used diluted for soaking the feet, or applied directly to the skin with a cotton ball.
Calendula, which comes in the form of tincture, ointment or cream, has antifungal and astringent properties, and can be used two or three times a day.
Garlic is one of the nature’s best antifungal agents. Its extract, in form of capsules, should be taken 6 times a day, raw garlic can be blended and applied directly to the affected nail, and it also helps to dust shoes, socks and feet with garlic powder.
Ginger tea contains more than 20 compounds which have antifungal properties. It should be taken orally three times a day and applied in compresses directly to the nail. Lemongrass tea works similarly.
A very effective treatment against toenail fungus can be made by mixing two tablespoons of pau d’arco tincture, four teaspoons each of tea tree and lavender tinctures, one eighth of peppermint tincture and four ounces of vinegar. This mixture is added to some warm water that is used for soaking feet three times a day. The feet should be thoroughly dried afterwards.
Other herbal options include olive leaf extract, turmeric oil, goldenseal tincture, chamomile tea, myrrh, aloe vera, tolnaftate, rosemary and thyme.
Your thoughts on this
Loading...