Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when fungi infect one or more of your nails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the nail edges.

While medical treatments are available, many people prefer to try home remedies to combat this persistent issue. This article explores effective home treatments for nail fungus, offering natural and accessible solutions for healthier nails.

Home treatments for nail fungus

It is often stubborn and challenging to treat, but various home remedies can help eliminate the fungus and restore healthy nails. Here are effective treatments to say goodbye to toenail fungus.

1. Baking soda

Add baking soda to a foot soak to try to heal the affected toenail. You can also make a paste of baking soda with a minimal amount of water and apply it directly to the foot. Allow the paste to sit on the affected area for 10 to 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water and dry the foot thoroughly.

Baking soda can also be sprinkled in shoes like foot powder. Sprinkle on some baking soda, then shake the shoes gently to distribute the powder. Let the shoes sit for at least 24 hours, then shake out any remaining baking soda.

You can also sprinkle baking soda onto the foot. Once applied to a dry foot, put on clean socks. Sodium bicarbonate, the active ingredient in baking soda, can wick away moisture while healing properties work to reduce toenail fungus.

2. Vicks VapoRub

One of the more popular over-the-counter remedies for treating toenail fungus is using Vicks VapoRub. Mentholated topical ointments contain the natural ingredients menthol, oil of eucalyptus, and camphor. Use Vicks alone or in conjunction with other treatments and medications. Clean feet and apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub daily.

3. Listerine

Soaking an infected nail in the OTC product Listerine can also help reduce or kill toenail fungus, due to its antifungal and antimicrobial activity. Commonly used as a mouthwash, Listerine applied to the affected toe or toenail for 20 minutes twice a day can effectively reduce signs of onychomycosis. Alternatively, you can make a foot bath with Listerine, using equal parts warm water and Listerine and adding one cup of Epsom salts.

4. Athlete’s foot medication

Athlete’s foot sprays, powders, and creams help stop fungal growth before it develops on the toenail or surrounding flesh. Brand-name products that you can purchase without a prescription include Tinactin (tolnaftate), Micatin (miconazole), Lamisil (terbinafine), and Lotrimin AF (clotrimazole).

5. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is known for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it a beneficial remedy for nail fungus. It contains medium-chain fatty acids that can penetrate the fungal cell membranes. The fatty acids in coconut oil, particularly lauric acid, help dissolve the cell walls of fungi, leading to their destruction.

Application:

• Clean and dry the affected area.
• Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the infected nail and surrounding skin.
• Massage gently until the oil is absorbed.
• Repeat this process two to three times daily.

Ensure to use virgin coconut oil for the best results. There are generally no side effects, but always perform a patch test if you have sensitive

6. Hydrogen peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide can kill the fungus that grows on toenails. You can use hydrogen peroxide for toenail fungus by wiping it on your infected toes or toenails with a clean cloth or cotton swab. A hydrogen peroxide foot soak can also be used. Mix 1/8 cup of hydrogen peroxide (or several capfuls) to four cups of cool water and soak feet for 10 to 20 minutes. Rinse feet with warm water and pat dry.

7. Black tea

Soaking feet in plain tea can also be beneficial in treating toenail or foot fungus. Black tea contains tannic acid that dries out the feet, kills bacteria, and helps to close the foot’s pores to reduce sweating. Boil two quarts of water then add five to six tea bags. Allow the solution to cool and soak feet for 30 minutes. Use this foot soak daily if desired.

8. Soaking feet in vinegar

Another home remedy to treat toenail fungus includes the use of apple cider vinegar foot soak. Vinegar is an antifungal ingredient that can be mixed with water to create a foot soak. Its acetic acid component helps to whiten discolored toenails and stop the spread of the infection to other toes. Try one part vinegar to two parts warm water and soak feet for 20 minutes daily. If the smell is too overwhelming, a few drops of essential oils can be added to make the experience more pleasant. White vinegar can be used as an alternative as both are equally effective.

9. Garlic

Garlic is a potent antimicrobial plant. For topical treatment, chop cloves of garlic and leave them on the affected nails for 30 minutes daily for a week. Use raw garlic sparingly, as it can result in a chemical burn.

Ask a pharmacist about herbal supplements that contain garlic. These supplements can be taken orally to not only treat skin infections but also can help high blood pressure, heart disease, certain cancers, and lower the risk of tick bites. Garlic supplements should not be taken by people with stomach ulcers, digestion problems, or bleeding disorders. It might also make birth control pills less effective. Talk to a healthcare professional before taking oral garlic supplements.

Conclusion

Nail fungus can be a stubborn and persistent problem, but various home treatments offer effective solutions to combat this condition. While these remedies are generally safe and natural, it is important to monitor your skin’s response and consult a healthcare professional if the infection persists or worsens. Combining these treatments with good hygiene practices can help restore your nails to their healthy, fungus-free state.