Treating Nail Fungus With Alternative Remedies

If you have a nail fungus, the best thing a doctor can offer you is a prescription for oral antifungal medications. These medications, however, are not without their risks.

Side effects can be minor—headaches, stomach upset, rashes, for example—to quite serious—liver damage, liver failure, heart failure, etc.

If you are on an oral antifungal medication you will need regular blood tests for liver and kidney function.

You should also know that the treatment period for oral antifungal medications is from 6 weeks to 18 months depending on where the fungus is and how hard it can be to treat. Taking an oral antifungal medication is not like taking a simple antibiotic prescription.

If you have nail fungus, there are natural treatment alternatives. Many people have reported success using Vicks VapoRub; this ointment, popular for relieving nasal congestion and coughing, should be applied to the affected nail. Others have reported success applying a small amount of tea tree oil directly to the affected nail.

There are a number of substances which can be mixed with water and then used to soak the affected nail. These include apple cider vinegar, baking soda, Listerine mouthwash, hydrogen peroxide, and chlorine bleach.

After soaking the nail, let it air dry when possible. Several of these—vinegar, mouthwash, and hydrogen peroxide—can be applied directly to the nail in question using a cotton ball.

Another natural alternative is cinnamon. Cinnamon sticks can be simmered in water to produce a soak for the affected nail, and if the feet are affected, you can also sprinkle ground cinnamon in your shoes.

Whatever alternative treatment for nail fungus you choose, remember that it takes a while for nail fungus to be cured. Be patient and consistent, and you will see results.