Nail Fungus

Nail fungus remedies are sometimes used to treat fungal infections in the toenails or fingernails. Also referred to as onychomycosis, nail fungus is often difficult to treat with conventional medicine. But while natural nail fungus remedies are widely used, there is very little scientific support for their effectiveness.

Home remedies

• Essential Oils : Certain essential oils show promise as natural nail fungus remedies. For instance, a 1999 study published in Tropical Medicine & International Health found that tea tree oil may help fight nail fungus. For 16 weeks, 60 patients used either a cream containing 5 percent tea tree oil or a placebo to treat their onychomycosis. By the study's end, 80 percent of participants assigned to the medicated cream were cured (compared to none in the placebo group).In an earlier study involving 177 people with toenail fungal infection, researchers found that tea tree oil was effective as clotrimazole solution (a topical antifungal medication) in treatment of nail fungus. Published in the Journal of Family Practice, the study involved a six-month treatment period.Preliminary findings from laboratory research suggest that clove oil may also help knock out the fungus associated with onychomycosis. However, it's too soon to tell whether clove oil might be effective as a nail fungus remedy.
• Apple Cider Vinegar : Proponents of apple cider vinegar suggest that acetic acid (a substance found in many types of vinegar) can destroy the fungi that cause nail fungal infections. However, there are no studies to support the claim that soaking your feet or hands in a mixture of apple cider vinegar and warm water can eliminate nail fungus.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.