Toenail Fungus: Three Natural Remedies To Try If You Can't Tolerate Prescriptions
Fungal infections of the toenails are tough to treat. This is partly because the species of fungi that cause them are rather tolerant of most medications and conditions, and partially because the fungi end up buried deeply in the nail tissue where it's hard for medications to reach them. There are prescription medications to treat toenail fungus, but not everyone is a candidate. If your doctor has informed you that you can't take these prescriptions, or if you've had a bad reaction to them in the past, here are some safer, natural remedies you may want to try.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural anti-fungal. It also acidifies your toenail, which makes it less appealing to the fungi causing your infection. The easiest way to use it is to prepare a soak of half apple cider vinegar and half water. Dip your foot in, and let it soak for at least 20 minutes. It's important to soak your whole foot and not just the affected nails as this will help prevent the fungus from spreading to the other nails.
You won't get results overnight, but if you continue soaking your feet daily, in a few months you may notice that the new nail growth is clear rather than thick and yellow. Keep soaking your feet daily until no yellow, fungus-laden growth remains.
Cinnamon Oil
Cinnamon also has antimicrobial properties and may help fight toenail fungus. This remedy is a good one if you don't have time to sit with your feet in a bath every day. It will make you smell like cinnamon, but most people don't find this scent offensive.
Buy high-quality cinnamon essential oil from a pharmaceutical store. You don't want the watered-down version that is sometimes sold for cooking or crafts. Rub a drop into each toenail twice a day after you bathe. It's important to do this when your toenails are moist and warm from a bath or shower.
Baking Soda
Baking soda itself will probably not get rid of your toenail fungus. However, you can combine this treatment with either of the other ones on this list to increase their effectiveness. Dust your toes liberally with baking soda before putting your shoes on each day. The baking soda will help absorb moisture, keeping your toes dry throughout the day. Dry toenails are less appealing to the fungus and will slow its replication.
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