Home Remedies and Herbs for Toenail Fungus (Nail Fungus)

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is an infection of the toenail and surrounding tissues. For most people, toenail fungus is simply a cosmetic concern. For others, it can cause pain.¹ Fungal infections of the nails occur when fungi, known as dermatophytes, burrow under the nails, which causes your toenails to become thick and crusty.² 

Nail fungus is common among about 20 percent of the population, although individuals over 60 years of age are more likely to suffer from it.¹ Nail fungus is diagnosed through tests conducted by your healthcare provider. Treatment options range from creams to lotions to pills.³ There are also many herbs for nail fungus and toenail fungus home remedies you can use to treat your symptoms, such as a toenail fungus tea tree oil remedy.

What Causes Toenail (Nail) Fungus?

Nail fungus is caused by various molds, yeasts, and other fungi.³ Since fungus grows best in warm, moist places, you can get infections like athlete's foot from walking barefoot in places like locker rooms or pools. You can also get it from sharing personal items like nail clippers and towels as well as from person-to-person contact.³ Wearing shower shoes and taking other precautions in high-risk areas can help reduce your risk of getting toenail fungus.
         
Toenail (Nail) Fungus Symptoms

Toenail fungus symptoms may include:

• Thickened nails
• Thick, brittle nails
• Nails that are distorted in color or shape
• Dull nails

In some cases, individuals may experience a condition called onycholysis, which is when the nail separates from the nail bed. Some people may also experience pain.⁴

Natural Remedies and Herbs for Toenail (Nail) Fungus

Toenail fungus can be treated through a variety of techniques, but one of the best ways is to adjust your diet. By doing so, you can cut off the supply of nutrients that feed the fungus so that it eventually dies off.⁵ Other toenail fungus home remedies can be applied topically to kill the fungus. Start with these toenail fungus natural cure options:

• Apple Cider Vinegar - Apple cider vinegar contains antifungal properties. Using a toenail fungus vinegar solution will help kill the infection. Apply the toenail fungus vinegar remedy topically for best results.
• Vinegar - If you don’t have any apple cider vinegar handy, feel free to use other vinegars found in your cupboards, and apply topically for an effective toenail fungus vinegar treatment.
• Cinnamon Oil - Cinnamon oil is another toenail fungus natural cure that you can apply topically.
• Garlic - Garlic acts as a toenail fungus natural cure. Apply it directly to the affected area to ease symptoms.
• Tea Tree Oil - A toenail fungus tea tree oil solution will help kill the fungal infection in your nails. Simply apply a few drops of tea tree oil to a cotton ball, and swab the area a few times per day.

Other ways to address toenail fungus is to eat less sugar and grain products to cut off the fungus’s food supply. Then, add foods to your diet that promote healthy bacteria growth, along with fiber, protein, and quality fats.⁵

Keep in mind that it can take some time for these toenail fungus home remedies to take effect. As long as you don’t experience adverse side effects of these herbs for nail fungus, continue using the treatment even if you don’t see immediate results. Symptoms should ease over time.

References

1. http://www.aofas.org/footcaremd/conditions/ailments-of-the-big-toe/Pages/Toenail-Fungus.aspx
2. http://www.drweil.com/health-wellness/body-mind-spirit/feet/nail-fungus/
3. http://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hw268101
4. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nail-fungus/basics/symptoms/con-20019319
5. https://draxe.com/toenail-fungus-treatment/