Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a widespread condition that often begins subtly, usually appearing as a tiny white or yellow spot just under the tip of the nail. While many assume it affects only toenails, fingernails can also be affected by fungal infections.
As the condition progresses, nails may become thickened, yellowish in color, brittle, and can even begin to detach from the nail bed. What makes onychomycosis particularly troublesome is that it can be quite resistant to treatment, especially if it’s not caught early.
If left unchecked, the infection may spread deeper into the nail, causing further discoloration and deterioration. Often, even if just one nail is initially infected, the surrounding nails can eventually become affected as well.
Although various medical treatments are available, many of them involve strong chemicals. For those who prefer natural alternatives, there are a number of proven home remedies that can effectively combat nail fungus and support nail health.
1. Ammonia Solution
Mix one tablespoon of ammonia with a glass of water.
Soak a cotton pad or gauze in the solution and apply it to the affected nail.
Wrap the nail in gauze, cover it with a plastic bag, and put on a sock to keep it secure.
Repeat this process daily for five days.
With consistent application, the fungus should begin to clear.
2. Vinegar and Egg Ointment
This powerful natural remedy involves soaking a raw egg in a glass of vinegar and letting it sit in a dark place until the eggshell dissolves.
Then, peel away the thin skin of the egg and mix the remaining vinegar with one tablespoon of oil and the softened egg.
Soak your feet, apply the ointment, wrap them in plastic, and leave for 15–20 minutes.
Gently remove the softened nail area and repeat the treatment daily.
After about five days, you should begin to see healthier nails growing in.
3. Propolis Tincture
Apply a 20% solution of propolis tincture using a cotton swab directly onto the infected nail.
With regular application, the damaged nail will eventually fall away and be replaced by a healthy one.
4. Baking Soda Paste
To help prevent fungal spread, mix baking soda and water in a 2:1 ratio to form a paste.
Apply it to the infected nail, leave it for 20 minutes, then rinse.
Repeat this process twice a day for up to two months for the best results.
5. Essential Oils
Tea Tree Oil: Known for its antifungal and antiseptic properties, apply a few drops to the affected area daily.
Oregano Oil: Mix 5 drops of oregano oil with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Apply, leave for an hour, then scrub and rinse. Use daily for a month.
6. Coconut Oil
Apply directly or mix with oregano oil in a 5:1 ratio.
Allow it to fully absorb.
Use twice daily for two months.
7. Listerine and Vinegar Soak
Combine Listerine and apple cider vinegar in a 1:2 ratio.
Soak a cotton ball in the solution, apply it to the nail, and leave it for 45 minutes.
Brush gently and rinse.
Repeat daily for a month.
With these home treatments, you can tackle nail fungus naturally and support the growth of clean, healthy nails.
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