Toenail Fungus Home Remedies: How To Cure Onychomycosis At Home

Onychomycosis, commonly known as toenail fungus, occurs due to the fungi known as dermatophytes which feed on the keratin in the toe nail. Toenail fungus usually affects the big toe and the little toe and makes the toenails disfigured and causes them to be discolored as well. This condition is not only contagious but it may also be hereditary. It is very easy to tell when you have toenail fungus because your nail will become either brown or yellow in appearance. The affected nail may finally become so thick and overgrown that you might not be able to wear shoes at all. It is possible that your nail might crumble and eventually completely fall off. It is also possible that smelly debris might get build up under your nail. It is very easy to contract toenail fungus because dermatophytes most commonly live in wet or moist environments such as bathrooms and swimming pools. The fungi usually attach themselves to the nail through small cuts on the leg or through any space that might exist between the nail and the nail bed.

Home Remedies For Toenail Fungus

One of the ways of dealing with toenail fungus is to use a vinegar bath. There is no hard scientific evidence to prove that the vinegar can completely control the fungus, research has shown that the vinegar can stunt the growth of some bacteria. You should mix two parts of lukewarm water with one part of vinegar in a basin and soak your feet in this for at least 20 minutes. After you are done, ensure that you rinse your feet and dry them well. It is also important that you do this exercise daily. Should your feet show any signs of inflammation due to the vinegar, do not soak your feet in the mixture for more than five minutes. You can also add one part more warm water to remove any signs of irritation. Listerine can also be used as a solution for soaking your feet.

It is very important that you maintain the proper hygiene required to keep the fungus away. Ensure that you wash your feet properly every day and that you do not wear the same pair of socks for more than one day and wear only cotton socks. Ensure that you do not share any linen with any person who might be suffering from the fungus because you may contract it from them. It is also important that you trim your nails very regularly and avoid wearing nail polish.