Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that affects the nails of the hands and feet.

The infection can start as a white or yellow spot under the nail and can cause the nails to thicken, become discolored, and become brittle over time. Nail fungus is a common problem, affecting millions of people worldwide.

How does nail fungus develop?

Nail fungus typically develops when fungi, such as dermatophytes or yeasts, invade the nail bed and surrounding tissues. The fungi thrive in warm, moist environments, such as those found in socks and shoes.

Other factors that can contribute to the development of nail fungus include:.

Walking barefoot in public spaces
Sweating heavily
Having a weakened immune system
Having diabetes or other health conditions that affect circulation
Getting manicures or pedicures in salons with poor hygiene.

How to treat nail fungus naturally?

Here are some natural remedies that can help in treating nail fungus:.

1. Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil is an essential oil that has antifungal and antiseptic properties. Applying tea tree oil to the affected area can help in killing the fungus.

Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, and apply to the affected area twice a day.

2. Garlic

Garlic is a natural antifungal and has been used to treat fungal infections for centuries. Crush garlic cloves and apply the paste directly to the affected nails for 30 minutes every day.

3. Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has antifungal properties that can help in killing the fungus. Dilute the apple cider vinegar with water in equal parts and soak the affected nails in the solution for 20 to 30 minutes twice a day.

Rinse and dry the nails thoroughly after soaking.

4. Baking soda

Baking soda is a natural exfoliant and can help in removing the dead skin cells from around the nails. Mix baking soda and water in a 1:1 ratio to make a paste. Apply this paste to the affected nails and leave it on for 10 minutes.

Rinse and dry the nails thoroughly.

5. Lemon juice

Lemon juice has antifungal properties that can help in killing the fungus. The acid in lemon juice can also help in removing the discoloration caused by the fungus. Soak the affected nails in lemon juice for 10 minutes, then rinse and dry thoroughly.

6. Oregano oil

Oregano oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help in killing the fungus. Mix a few drops of oregano oil with a carrier oil, such as olive oil or coconut oil, and apply to the affected nails twice a day.

7. Olive leaf extract

Olive leaf extract has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help in killing the fungus. Mix a few drops of olive leaf extract with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, and apply to the affected nails twice a day.

8. Turmeric

Turmeric has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that can help in treating nail fungus. Apply turmeric paste directly to the affected nails and leave it on for 30 minutes. Repeat once a day.

9. Epsom salt

Epsom salt can help in reducing the inflammation and swelling caused by the fungus. Mix Epsom salt with warm water in a 1:2 ratio and soak the affected nails in the solution for 15 to 20 minutes twice a day.

Rinse and dry the nails thoroughly after soaking.

10. Aloe vera

Aloe vera has antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help in killing the fungus. Apply aloe vera gel directly to the affected nails and leave it on for 30 minutes. Rinse and dry the nails thoroughly after application.