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Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common fungus toe infection. The most visible sign is the discolouration of one or more of your toes in white, brown, or yellow. It can spread and cause the nails to thicken or fracture.

Whether sandal season or not, toenail fungus isn’t something you want to see when you glance at your feet; fortunately, numerous therapies are available.

Toenail fungus is traditionally treated with prescription oral antifungals such as terbinafine (Lamisil) or fluconazole (Diflucan). Although these therapies are frequently helpful, they can have significant adverse effects ranging from nausea and dizziness to severe skin problems and jaundice.

This could be why many people prefer to use home treatments instead. Here are some of the most popular at-home remedies.

VapoRub by Vicks

Vicks VapoRub is an ointment that is applied topically. Although it is intended to cure coughs, its active components (camphor and eucalyptus oil) may also help treat toenail fungus.

Extract of snakeroot

Snakeroot (Ageratina pichinchensis) extract is an antifungal derived from sunflower plants.

According to a 2008 study, the therapy is as effective against toenail fungus as the prescription antifungal drug ciclopirox.

Snakeroot extract was administered to the affected area every third day for the first month, twice a week for the second month, and once a week for the third month of the study.

Tea tree essential oil

Tea tree oil, commonly known as melaleuca oil, is an essential oil that has antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Some small-scale clinical trials have shown that tea tree oil may be useful against toenail fungus, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative HealthTrusted Source.

Dab a cotton swab into the tea tree oil and dab it straight onto the afflicted nail twice daily.

Oil of oregano

Thymol is found in oregano oil. Thymol possesses antifungal and antibacterial effects, according to a 2016 assessment.

To cure toenail fungus, use a cotton swab to apply oregano oil to the afflicted nail twice daily. Some people combine oregano oil and tea tree oil.

Extract of olive leaf

Oleuropein, an important ingredient in olive leaf extract, is known to have antifungal, antibacterial, and immune-boosting properties.

You can apply olive leaf salve directly on the nail fungus or take it as a pill.

Oils ozonized

Ozonized oils are olive and sunflower oils that have been “injected” with ozone gas.

According to a study, low-level ozone exposure over a short period can inactivate various species, such as fungi, yeast, and bacteria.

Vinegar

There is just anecdotal evidence that vinegar can be used to cure toenail fungus. Nonetheless, it’s a somewhat safe home cure to try.

To use, immerse the affected foot in a solution of one part vinegar to two parts warm water for up to 20 minutes per day.

Mouthwash with Listerine

Listerine mouthwash contains antibacterial and antifungal compounds such as menthol, thymol, and eucalyptus. This could explain why it’s a popular folk cure for toenail fungus.

Proponents of the treatment propose bathing the injured foot in an amber-coloured Listerine basin for 30 minutes daily.

Garlic

A look back in 2009

Garlic contains antifungal and antimicrobial properties, according to Trusted Source.

Garlic can be used to treat toenail fungus by applying chopped or crushed garlic cloves to the afflicted area for 30 minutes daily.

It may be preferable and less smelly to treat it using garlic pills. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Change your diet.

The link between diet and health is obvious: the healthier the foods you eat, the higher your body’s chances of fighting off illnesses like toenail fungus.

Consume the following foods to provide your body with the nutrients it requires:

Yogurt with probiotics

sufficient protein to support nail renewal, sufficient iron to avoid brittle nails

necessary fatty acid-rich diet

Calcium and vitamin D-rich foods, such as low-fat dairy products