Public showers, public pools, pedicure spas – all of these places can be where you picked up that yellow-white fungus that is thickening your toenail. The fungus may begin as just a small, white or yellow spot on the nail, but it will slowly cause the nail to thicken and crumble.
Once the fungus is contracted, what can be done to treat it? A number of over-the-counter remedies are available, but you may have some items at home that work just as well. Check out these 6+ home remedies for treating toenail fungus.
1. Baking soda
Making a paste of baking soda and water often works, according to Reader’s Digest. Apply the paste to the toenail and let it sit for 10 minutes before cleaning it off.
2. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has a number of anti-fungal properties, says Healthline. Apply the oil to the affected nail two times a day.
3. Vick’s VapoRub
Vick’s contains menthol, which Prevention states will help get rid of the fungus. Rub the nail with the VapoRub once a day until the fungus is gone.
4. Snakeroot extract
Some studies say that snakeroot oil is as effective as ciclopirox, an over-the-counter ointment. Healthline says to apply the extract directly to the nail every three days for the first month, twice a week for the second month and once a week for the third month.
5. Ozonized sunflower oil
According to WebMD, ozonized sunflower oil is quite effective. Apply it directly to the fungus until the nail is healed.
6. Listerine and vinegar
Besides making your feet smell nice, Prevention states that Listerine has menthol, which is good for killing the fungus. Vinegar is acidic, so it can’t hurt. Combine equal parts Listerine and vinegar and soak your nail for 45 to 60 minutes a day.
7. Vinegar
No science is available to confirm this remedy, but Healthline shares that a lot of people swear by this. Soak your nail for 20 minutes every day.
Who needs to spend lots of money on a remedy? Head to your cupboards and see what you have to fix this problem at home.
Source: Remedy Daily