Nail fungus on the toes can be very unpleasant. They not only look ugly but they also cause crumbling or brittleness of nails, discoloration, crusting, swelling and inflammation that can spread. Fungal infection of the nails is medically called onychomycosis.
This fungus forms due to the fact that fungus thrives in moist and warm environments, which in other words are our shoes.
Here are some home remedies to help you get rid of this fungus on your toe nails:
- Tea tree oil rub and soak
Tea tree oil is naturally endowed with disinfectant, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties making it top the list in toe fungal removal.
You can directly soak cotton balls with tea tree oil and rub the affected area and letting it dry naturally.
You can even pour a capful of tea tree oil to warm water and allow your feet to soak in this for 15 – 20 minutes. This soak if done twice a day regularly will treat your nail fungus.
- Baking soda and vinegar soak
Vinegar is a mild acid that will kill bacteria and mold without harming your skin or the environment. Baking soda does not kill fungus but it does help by preventing it from spreading.
Soak your feet in water just enough to cover your feet that is mixed with one cup of vinegar and 5-6 tablespoons of baking soda.
Soak your feet for 15 minutes and pat dry. The vinegar will kill the fungus sooner or later and baking soda prevents it from spreading.
- Coconut Oil
This is the most natural way to get rid of nail fungus. The natural fatty acids in coconut oil act as natural fungicide and destroy the fungal membrane that leads to its disintegration.
Rub coconut oil over the affected area and let it naturally soak up into the skin. A thick layer will work like a charm. Repeat the process every 4-5 hours for best results.
As with athlete’s foot, you should also follow other precautions such as keeping feet clean and dry, changing socks daily and using open footwear whenever possible.
