Toenail Fungus Home Remedies That Work

Using toenail fungus home remedies has been effective for many people. In addition to restoring nails to a healthy state, there are other benefits to using things from your kitchen cupboards or that can be easily found in natural food stores or online.

For most people, the problem is more cosmetic that serious. Although some individuals have cracking skin, painful and swollen digits, and distortions of nails and toes, most just have discoloration and thickening. However, this unattractive condition keeps many from wearing open-toe shoes and sandals, although this well-ventilated type of footwear is good for your feet. Fungus does not thrive in fresh air and sunlight.

In addition to the risks of negative effects of medication, making doctor's visits and filling prescriptions can be expensive. How much nicer to use something already in your home or some natural treatment shown to be safe either by years of use or by clinical tests. Even in cases where the problem is causing pain, unpleasant odors, and cracking skin, using less dangerous remedies makes good sense.

Yeast overgrowth in the intestinal tract is considered by many to be the source of systemic fungal infections. For this reason it is suggested that the diet be free of sugary foods, while rich in vegetables, roughage, and friendly bacteria from yogurt and other cultured dairy products. Supplementing with a probiotic capsule once a day is also believed to be good in maintaining healthy nails and skin.

Foods on the list include apple cider vinegar, with a teaspoon added to a glass of water to stimulate digestion, fight inflammation, keep the bloodstream alkaline, and act as an internal cleanse. It is proved to fight Candida albicans, a form of yeast which can grow too rapidly, overwhelm friendly bacteria in the digestive tract, and cause various problems including fungal infections. Garlic is another potent ally in the fight, with blood cleansing, antibacterial, and anti-fungus properties. Both of these products are used internally and externally in soaks and in direct applications to problem areas.

Vitamin supplements have been shown to help, while being good for the whole system as well. B complex vitamins, as well as C, E, and A are on the list, as well as a daily probiotic supplement. Brewer's yeast is recommended as an addition to the daily diet, as well as getting fresh air and sunlight on your feet when feasible.

Essential oils are very useful when trying to prevent infection or get rid of established fungal growth. Oregano, lavender, and tea tree oils are all used topically or in soaking solutions. Cotton balls, eyedroppers, and swabs are good ways to apply these oils directly to the nails. Tea tree oil may be drying, but it can be allowed to penetrate the nail and then other softening oils can be rubbed into the feet.

Other toenail fungus home remedies include tea tree oil, which can be found at most health food stores or online, and many supplements: vitamins B complex, E, A, and C, and the immune system boosting mineral zinc. Biotin, one of the B group, may stimulate faster growth of new, healthy nail tissue. Check online for more information about these and other easily procured and natural aids to beautiful toenails.