Natural Remedies And Treatments For Toenail Fungus
Fungal nail issues can be downright frustrating. They can look unsightly, may cause embarrassment and self-consciousness, and can lead to discomfort. Unfortunately, they can be persistent and difficult to treat. So, what options are there to improve your foot health when a fungus has taken hold?
In a time when many of us are more mindful of what we are putting into and onto our bodies, natural remedies can be seen as favourable solutions to many problems. There are several different options when it comes to toenail fungus, such as apple cider vinegar. However, it can be important to seek professional advice for certain problems before undertaking natural treatments to rule out issues that may require different investigations and care.
Our friendly and experienced team of podiatrists can assess your toenails, identify the cause of a nail’s abnormal appearance, and advise what the next best steps are to take.
What Is Toenail Fungus?
Fungus are organisms that thrive in conditions in which toenails are often in, such as moist, dark, or enclosed environments like socks, shoes, and floors in communal areas. When fungus affects the toes, it can develop into an infection. Fungal spores, which move like dandelions, can cause the spread of the infection from person to person, and to different areas of the body.
These infections can cause thickened, flaky, weakened, or discoloured nails that can become sore and cracked, affect the surrounding skin, and may even fall off.
How Can You Avoid Fungal Infections Naturally?
The good news is that there are steps to avoid developing fungal infections. These can include the following:
- Wear footwear, such as thongs, in shared areas like gym changing rooms.
- Keep your feet and shoes dry.
- Regularly give your feet time out in the open without shoes and socks.
- Do not leave nail polishes on for extended periods without breaks in between repainting.
- Clean your socks and bed sheets frequently.
- Undertake routine nail care, such as using moisturiser, washing and drying your feet, and carefully trimming your toenails.
Natural Remedies And Treatment Options To Get Rid Of Toenail Fungus
When it comes to treating problems such as fungal nail infections, it is important to note evidence-based and safe recommendations and advice. There are many natural options that people might employ in the hope they will fix the problem, only to find they do not help.
Some natural remedies and treatments include:
Nail Thinning And Removal Of Badly Affected Sections
We can gently thin affected nails with specific tools to improve the appearance and encourage the nail to grow out in a normal way. We are experienced in doing this and recommend you see us so that further damage is not inflicted on the nail.
Chemical-free Sterilisation Of Shoes And Footwear
We can perform this task to reduce the risk of these items causing infection when the fungal spores are present.
Tea Tree Oil
This has been shown in laboratories to have antifungal properties, however, real-life evidence to show that it improves fungal infections is lacking. It may cause nail discolouration and weakness or dermatitis for some people, so if you do try it, keep an eye out for other issues. It is suggested to combine a few drops with an oil like coconut or olive oil and apply two to four times a day.
Vicks Vapo Rub
This may also be recommended as the ingredients in this topical ointment, such as menthol, eucalyptus oil, and camphor, can be effective for many issues. However, when it comes to nail infections, there are no reliable research results to show it to be a positive solution.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Because it is acidic, this vinegar may inhibit bacteria’s ability to grow, though research on its positive effect on toenail fungus is minimal.
Rubbing Alcohol
Direct application may rid the nail of the fungus. We can advise you on a suggested routine.
Our Podiatrists Help Treat Toenail Fungus
As podiatrists, we are passionate about providing safe treatment that will improve the foot issues we often see, such as fungal infections. There are antifungal medications in oral and topic forms that can be effective. These may be deemed necessary in certain situations, such as well-established infections, and infections in people with health conditions such as diabetes. However, there are steps that may be effective without medication. We can provide support and guidance regarding these, so come have a chat with us about it!
