Toenail fungus or Onychomycosis is a common condition that affects a lot of people. It occurs when a fungal infection attacks the toenail. The fungus can cause discoloration, thickening, and crumbling of the toenail, causing embarrassment and discomfort.
Though there are various over-the-counter medications that can be used to treat toenail fungus, home remedies can go a long way in managing the condition. Here are some of the best home remedies for toenail fungus:.
1. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil is known for its antifungal properties. Apply tea tree oil directly to the affected toenail using a cotton swab twice a day, in the morning and evening.
The oil should be left on for about 10 minutes, then rinse the toenail and dry it thoroughly. Repeat the process daily for several weeks until the fungus clears.
2. Baking soda and apple cider vinegar
Baking soda and apple cider vinegar are two ingredients that make a powerful anti-fungal treatment. Mix one-quarter cup of baking soda with apple cider vinegar to make a paste. Apply the paste to the affected toenail and leave it on for 15 minutes.
Rinse your toenail with water and dry it thoroughly. Repeat this process twice a day for optimal results.
3. Garlic
Garlic has antifungal properties that make it an effective remedy for toenail fungus. Crush a few cloves of garlic and apply the paste to the affected toenail. Leave the garlic paste on for about 30 minutes and then rinse it off with water.
Repeat this process twice a day until the toenail fungus clears.
4. Listerine
Listerine mouthwash contains antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial properties that make it a great home remedy for toenail fungus. Soak your affected toenail in a small basin filled with Listerine for 30 minutes.
Rinse your toenail with water and dry it thoroughly. Repeat this process daily until the toenail fungus clears.
5. Lemon juice
Lemon juice has acidic properties that help to prevent the growth of toenail fungus. Apply fresh lemon juice directly on the affected toenail and leave it on for 10 minutes. Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
Repeat this process daily until the toenail fungus clears.
6. Olive oil
Olive oil contains antifungal properties that can help to kill the fungus causing toenail fungus. Apply warm olive oil directly to the affected toenail and leave it on for a few hours. Rinse your toenail with water and dry it thoroughly.
Repeat this process several times a day until the toenail fungus clears.
7. Oregano oil
Oregano oil has antifungal properties that make it an effective remedy for toenail fungus. Mix a few drops of oregano oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil or olive oil and apply the mixture to the affected toenail.
Leave it on for a few hours and then rinse off with water. Repeat the process twice daily until the toenail fungus clears.
8. Vinegar
Vinegar contains acetic acid that can help eliminate toenail fungus. Mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a basin and soak your affected toenail in the solution for 30 minutes. Rinse your toenail with water and dry it thoroughly.
Repeat the process daily until the toenail fungus clears.
9. Epsom salt
Epsom salt has antifungal properties that can help to kill toenail fungus. Add half a cup of Epsom salt to a small basin of hot water and soak your affected toenail in the solution for 15 to 20 minutes. Rinse your toenail with water and dry it thoroughly.
Repeat the process daily until the toenail fungus clears.
10. Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide has antifungal properties that can help to eliminate toenail fungus. Mix hydrogen peroxide with warm water and soak your affected toenail in the solution for 30 minutes. Rinse your toenail with water and dry it thoroughly.
Repeat the process daily until the toenail fungus clears.