What to Do If You Have Nail Fungus

Nail fungus infections are caused by fungi organisms and can develop among people of any age.

Fungus infections can lead to more serious problems with your fingernails and toenails. As a result, you want to know what to do if you suspect you have a nail fungus infection.

You can try the home remedies and treatments below, plus some helpful fungal nail advice.

Use Vicks VapoRub

Arguably the go-to tropical ointment for cough suppression, Vicks VapoRub has shown a “positive clinical effect” when used to treat fungal infection.

Vicks’ active ingredients include camphor and eucalyptus oil, both of which help fight nail fungus growth.

Vinegar

Although there’s only anecdotal evidence to support vinegar’s effectiveness against fungi infection, it’s safe to try it as a home remedy.

Simply soak the affected area in a mixture of vinegar and water for up to 20 minutes. Do this daily, and check for results.

Listerine

Listerine’s active ingredients include:

• Menthol
• Thymol
• Eucalyptus

These three have antibacterial and antifungal properties, which are great for fighting nail fungus infection.

Although no official study supports the claim, users recommend soaking the affected nail in a basin of red Listerine for 30 minutes every day.

Garlic

Garlic contains some antifungal and antimicrobial properties that help treat nail fungus infection, according to a review.

To use it, chop or crush garlic cloves and place them on the infected area for 30 minutes every day.

The next remedies are extracts and oils that are natural and widely considered to be effective against fungi infections.

Coconut Oil

Apart from being an active ingredient in various skin and hair products, coconut oil also contains powerful antifungal properties thanks to the number of fatty acids in it.

To use, apply the coconut oil to the nails and the surrounding skin three times a day. Use only high-quality virgin coconut oil.

Tea Tree Oil

Studies suggest that this essential oil can fight nail fungus infection, thanks to its composition.

Tea tree oil, or melaleuca, also contains active antifungal and antiseptic properties.

It produces similar results to the traditional fungal medicine called Clotrimazole.

When using tea tree oil, apply it directly onto the infected area using a cotton swab.

Oregano Oil

Oregano is a plant that contains Thymol, which has been proven to have antifungal and antibacterial abilities.

To use, apply oregano oil twice every day on the affected area using a cotton swab.

Many people use oregano oil in combination with tea tree oil to improve their effects. However, be sure to check first for any allergic reaction, or the infection could worsen.

Olive Leaf Extract

Olive leaf extract has an active substance called Oleuropein, which is believed to have antifungal and antimicrobial properties.

These are home remedies you can try to stop and prevent nail fungus infection. The next ones are more tips you can use to prevent any type of fungi infection.

Watch Your Diet

Your diet also affects your health and your chances of developing nail fungus infection. If you eat healthy foods, you lower your chances of fungus infection.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Although nail fungus infections are considered to be common and not life-threatening, they can still cause or prelude even more serious health problems.

For instance, nail fungus infections are common among patients with diabetes. These patients often suffer from foot ulcers and other foot problems.

People with poor immune systems also suffer from fungus infections.

Overall, while home remedies may be effective and safe, seeing a doctor should still be on your list. At the same time, make sure you stay healthy and have proper hygiene.