How Do I Cure Toenail Fungus?

Toenail fungus — a fungal nail infection of the toenails — is a very widespread problem. Although toenail fungus is unlikely to cause serious complications, these infections are seriously hard to treat, a fact that can lead to severe frustration.

People who play sports, have previously experienced physical trauma to their feet and toes, and those who wear tight-fitting shoes and hosiery, are at greater risk than the general population. Also, people who often have sweaty or wet feet are more likely to have problems with toenail fungus, as well. This includes those who sweat a lot, individuals who have abnormal pH levels of the skin, people who don’t dry their feet thoroughly after bathing or exercise, and those with decreased immunity.

What can you do to treat your fungal toenail infection, besides the topical or oral antifungal medications that your doctor may prescribe you? If you are tired of waiting for your toenail fungus to clear up and want to take further steps to speed the process up, you may have some luck with these unusual remedies.

 

Listerine Mouthwash Magic

Listerine mouthwash is a powerful antiseptic. The ingredients in this solution include salicylate thymol and euchalyptol, two items when combined form a strong toenail fungus remedy. It is recommended that you mix the mouthwash with apple cider vinegar which is a natural acid. This increases the effectiveness of the home remedy. Not only does it improve fungal nail appearance, but it stops the growth and spread of the fungus, as well.

Experts say to soak your feet in this solution around 20 minutes a day to alleviate the fungus. A simpler way to apply this is to soak a cotton gauze in the solution and place it on the affected toe. Secure this with a small bandage to keep the cotton wad in place and allow this to remain on for an hour. This should be done daily to see results. You won’t see noticeable improvement for a month, so be patient.

The Italian Job:  Oregano and Olive Oil

Home remedies for nail fungus may not offer sure cures but they are often popular with those who are trying to avoid high costs of healthcare. While you may find there are plenty of remedies available that promise quick solutions, some are not very effective. No treatment works instantly but the oregano and olive oil treatment provides many good benefits. It is an antiseptic, and antibacterial, an analgesic, and an antifungal. Just blend a couple of drops of Oregano with a teaspoon of olive oil and apply this to the affected area.
 

Cornmeal Hillbilly Cure

The use of cornmeal is a cheap home remedy that is a simple cure for toenail fungus. To use this remedy, you should put an inch of cornmeal into a shallow pan and add hot water. The water will dissolve it but be sure to let it cool down before you soak your feet in it. There have been many people who have had success with this home remedy but there is no scientific reason for why it would work.

Maybe It Was the Menthol….Vicks VaporRub

People have been using Vicks VaporRub for years to treat upper respiratory congestion associated with sinus infections, allergies, and colds. But it can also be used as an inexpensive way to rid your nails of onychomycosis. The mixture of menthol and thymol is said to be behind the success of this salve, but no one knows for sure. To use this remedy, just apply the Vicks to all the area around the infected nail or nails once a day. Most people apply it at night right after a warm bath and put on clean white socks. The downside is that it could take up to six months to work.