Natural Ways to Clear Toe Fungus

Toe fungal infection is due to the accumulation of fungus under the nails. These bacteria, which can stay in the nails for a long period of time, affect the nail tissues. This is a difficult condition to eradicate, and the chance of recurrence is high. Although there is no cure for toe fungus, natural remedies can make it possible to have a healthy nail grow out and replace the infected nail material.

Causes

This condition is caused by a fungus group called dermatophytes, which embeds itself into the small space between the nail and the nail bed. This is a communicable disease which usually lives in wet or moist areas, including shower rooms and swimming pools. Toe fungus can be caused by health disorders such as HIV, diabetes, compromised immune systems or trauma to the nail itself.

Symptoms

Toe fungus starts with discoloration of the tip of the nail, usually yellow or black in color. If left untreated, the entire nail can attain an unhealthy shade. The entire nail may eventually become thickened and develop deteriorating edges that can be very painful. The nail will also have no luster or shine and be distorted in shape,

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a natural antibiotic that helps to eradicate toenail fungus. The nail should be filed down to make sure the oil can get through the nail surface to where the fungus is living. A few drops of undiluted tea tree oil can be mixed with olive or lavender oil and applied to the affected nail. This treatment helps soothe irritated skin around the infected nail.

Vinegar

Vinegar helps relieve itching and pain, does not have any harmful side effects, reduces inflammation and is a very cheap treatment in eradicating fungal infections. The remedy usually consists of daily foot baths in 50 percent water and 50 percent vinegar, soaking the feet three times a day in 30-minute increments. Make sure to trim the nail before beginning this process.

Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is also an effective treatment for nail fungus. The nail should be filed down so the solution can penetrate through the deeper layers to reach the fungus. At least twice a day for 30 minutes, soak the affected nails in a solution of hot water and a few tablespoons of Epsom salt.

Professional Care

If the toe fungus condition does not improve after trying natural remedies, you may need to consult a doctor. Other disorders have similar symptoms to toe fungus, including bacterial infections and psoriasis. The cause of the toenail fungus may be a symptom of a larger health issue. Be sure to consult a medical professional if the problem persists or the condition worsens.