Searching for home remedies for nail fungus?
What is nail fungus?
Fungal infections on the nail can be a very embarrassing and often persistent problem. They can cause pain and irritation if not treated properly. The infection usually develops when fungi (known as dermatophytes) burrow in under the nail – this typically results in a nail that becomes thick, discolored and crusty.
Symptoms of nail fungus
- white or yellow spot under tip of the nail
- thickening and/or distortion of the nail
- crusting
- discoloration
- darkening
- separation from the nail bed
- slight odor
How do you get nail fungus?
The most common way to pick up a nail fungus condition is to walk barefoot in a local swimming pool, gym locker room or shower – any place where there is less than desirable sanitary conditions. Nail fungus will thrive in dark, moist, warm environments, so sweaty shoes should also be avoided.
The fungus will usually travel through an opening on the skin or a separation in the nail bed, and if a warm environment is provided the fungus will continue to grow and thrive.
Using tea tree oil for nail fungus
Tea tree oil has been proven to be an effective treatment for any type of nail fungus (hands or feet) due to the oil’s natural antifungal and antiseptic properties.
The best way to use tea tree oil is to paint it on the nail twice a day for at least 4-6 weeks. Tea tree oil will not provide speedy results, but it does provide peace of mind knowing you’re not allowing harsh, toxic chemicals onto your nails and skin.
The nail needs to grow out completely before all signs of the fungus are not visible, so this may take 6-12 months.
You can usually find 100% essential tea tree oil at your local health food stores – you may even find it in some supermarkets.
Does tea tree oil really work on nail fungus?
If you apply tea tree oil to the affected nail twice a day, you should see results within two to three months. Any yellow color will begin to disappear, and the nail should start to become strong and much brighter in appearance. Be persistent with the treatment and you should see results - don’t stop treatment until your nail is fully cured.
How to cure nail fungus with natural treatments
There are plenty of over-the-counter antifungal creams available to treat nail fungus, but their effect can be questionable. Oral anti-fungal medications are much more effective, but their side effects can range from skin rashes to liver problems.
If you don’t like the idea of putting harsh chemicals on your nails and skin or inside your body, then an all-natural remedy like tea tree oil is the way to go – it may take a little longer to cure your nail fungus, but your body will thank you for it.
The benefits of tea tree oil and nail fungus
Tea tree oil is distilled from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia tree - a plant native to Australia. Aboriginal people (the native people of Australia) have been using tea tree oil for thousands of years to treat various ailments ranging from cuts to boils, bites and stings.
Tea tree oil is a natural antifungal treatment, so it’s the perfect solution if you want an all-natural treatment for use on your nail fungus.
How to prevent nail fungus?
Here’s a list of precautions you can take to prevent recurrences of nail fungus:-
- Wear sandals or flip-flops at the local swimming pool, gym or other wet area in public
- Change your socks or hosiery daily
- Keep your feet clean and dry
- Trim your toenails straight across and trim them regularly
