Toe Nail Fungus

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a contagious fungal infection that is caused by a group of dermatophyte fungus. This certain type of fungus feeds on the keratin substance that makes up the surface of the toenail and causes the discoloration and disfiguration of each nail. It occurs on both fingernails and toenails although the big and small toe finger are more likely to be affected.

Symptoms
Toenails that are infected will get a yellowish or brownish color. It will grow thicker than normal making it painful to wear shoes. The nail will be brittle and will leave a foul smell. Spots are commonly seen at the downside of the infected nails.

Causes
Prolonged contact with damp areas such as swimming pools, public gyms or shower stalls, and wearing tight-fitting shoes or hosiery, are the factors that contributes to toenail infection. The fungus may also spread from one toenail to another, or to other parts of the body.

Abnormal pH level of the skin, weak immune system, and not drying off the feet after bathing or exercise are other known causes of toenail infection.

Home Remedies
Tea tree oil: Mix tea tree oil with olive oil. Apply on the infected toenail. Alternately, rub a few drops of tea tree oil on the infected nail thoroughly. Repeat treatment daily for more effective results. Tea tree oil is a natural antiseptic and fungicide.

Listerine: Place toes in a basin filled with diluted Listerine mouthwash. It is a powerful antiseptic that will leave your toenails clean and healthy.

Apple cider vinegar: Mix equal parts of warm water and apple cider vinegar in a flat basin. Soak feet in the solution for 15-20 minutes. Dry nails thoroughly using a blow dyer on warm setting. This will absorb all the moisture all round the toes.

Lavender oil: Put equal drops of tea tree and lavender oil on a cotton gauze or swab. Dab cotton gauze all around the infected nail. Do this 2-3 times a day. Tea tree oil has natural antibiotic properties and lavender oil will prevent skin irritation and fight infection.

Oregano: Mix 2 drops of oregano oil with 1 teaspoon of olive oil. Apply mixture on the infected area everyday for 3 weeks only. Oregano oil is an all-around analgesic, antiseptic, antibacterial, anti-parasitical, antiviral, and anti-fungal agent.

AHA creams: Apply AHA creams (or Alpha Hydroxy acid) on your feet before bedtime. It will remove flaking skin in your feet that are prone to inhabiting fungus.

Diets
Increase intake of probiotics in your diet. Yogurt and kefir are very good sources of probiotics. These good bacteria will help remove the invading fungus from the body.

Taking olive leaf extract internally will also provide the needed anti-fungal agent for the body.
Avoid refined carbohydrates in the form of dairy products, sugar, and vinegar.

Further Suggestions
Wash your feet immediately and dry them well after coming out of public areas that are wet and warm such as locker rooms, showers, spas, and swimming pools. This habit will reduce of fungal infection in your feet.

When wearing close-toe shoes, wear cotton socks to let the feet absorb the perspiration.

Always makes sure to keep your feet dry. Take off wet socks, clean and dry your feet before wearing a new pair.

Avoid sharing personal items with infected people. This include shoes, towels and washcloths.

Trim your nails regularly by cutting them straightly and smoothing the edges with a nail file.

Avoid using nail polish as much as possible.