Toenail fungus, medically known as onychomycosis, occurs when a fungus attaches to the toenails and begins to feed on an ingredient known as keratin, which helps to form the toenails. Symptoms of a toenail fungus may include thickening or discoloration of the affected toenail, foul odor, or brittle toenails that break easily. Natural, or homeopathic, cures for toenail fungus may include the use of topical agents such as tea tree oil, lifestyle modification, and dietary changes.
Tea tree oil is one of the most popular homeopathic cures for toenail fungus. To use tea tree oil for this purpose, saturate a cotton ball with the tea tree oil and rub the affected toenail with the cotton ball. This is typically done twice per day, once in the morning and again just before going to bed at night. If the strong odor of the tea tree oil presents a problem, it may be mixed in equal amounts with lavender oil.
The use of apple cider vinegar is also among the more popular homeopathic cures for toenail fungus. To use this method of treatment, a basin or bucket is filled with equal parts of apple cider vinegar and water. Place the affected foot or feet inside the basin and soak for about 15 minutes. After soaking, the toenails should be patted dry. Hydrogen peroxide may be substituted for the apple cider vinegar and should produce the same results.
A paste made with turmeric powder is among the possibilities when considering homeopathic cures for toenail fungus. To make this paste, simply mix a little water into turmeric powder until a thick paste is formed. Generously apply the paste to the affected toenail and allow the paste to dry. Once the paste has dried, rinse off the paste and carefully dry the foot.
Dietary changes may prove to be helpful homeopathic cures for toenail fungus. Foods such as kefir and yogurt are known as probiotics and may help to remove the fungus from the body. Consuming at least one serving of these foods daily may prove to be helpful.
Lifestyle modifications are important homeopathic cures for toenail fungus and are beneficial in preventing the spread of the fungus to others. For instance, personal items such as towels or shoes should not be shared, especially with someone who may have a toenail fungus. The feet should always be washed and dried properly after visiting public places such as swimming pools or showers. Proper hygiene may help to prevent the development of toenail fungus, even if the feet have come into contact with the fungus.
