Toenail fungus is one of the most common feet problems. It's an infection of your toenails caused by fungi, and it's often characterised by yellowing or whitening, inflammation and swelling of your toes and toenails. You may also experience pain and develop smelly feet. Generally, poor feet hygiene, poor blood circulation, a weak immune system and exposure to high moisture levels are some of the major causes of toenail fungus. Cracks in your nails and toes are some of the greatest contributors to toenail fungus because they allow fungi to enter. In addition, if you are dealing with athlete's foot, the toenail fungal infection can start from there, spreading gradually to other toenails. That's why knowing how to treat the infection is crucial. Fortunately, you can do this with simple home remedies. Here's more on this.
Baking Soda
Baking soda is one of the most common household products you may have in your home that can double as a remedy for your toenail fungus. Generally, exposure to moisture is among the major causes of toenail fungus. Therefore, applying baking soda to your feet can help dry up excess moisture, preventing fungal growth. Remember to do this several times every day.
Garlic
Garlic is another readily available product you can use to treat toenail fungus. Thanks to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, it can help treat toenail fungal infections. To use garlic, crush it and mix it with white vinegar or olive oil. Then, apply the mixture to the affected area, covering it with a bandage to keep it in place. Leave it for an hour or so before washing it and drying your feet. Similarly, do this repeatedly for several days as you monitor your healing. However, it's worth noting that too much garlic can cause chemical burns on your skin, so remember to use it sparingly.
Essential Oils
Essential oils have natural antifungal and antimicrobial properties that can come in handy in treating toenail fungus. Therefore, you can choose from a wide range of options, including lavender oil, tea tree oil, clove oil, eucalyptus oil, lemon oil, cinnamon oil, etc. You can mix a combination of oils or use a single oil, whichever you can find, with coconut oil or olive oil before applying few drops to your affected nail. Alternatively, you can add few drops to your footbath before cleaning your feet.
Hygiene
Proper feet hygiene is also crucial to your healing. Therefore, remember to trim and clip your toenails weekly. Doing this relieves pressure from the toenails, allowing your home remedies to penetrate and reach the fungus. Also, remember to maintain dry nails, so it helps to keep your feet in a clean pair of socks all the time.
Contact a local podiatrist to learn more about fungus toenail treatment options.
