How to Treat Onychomycosis Naturally

Onychomycosis is a fungal disease that affects the feet, causing thickened, dry and brittle nails. It is one of the third most common fungal infections and can cause symptoms such as paresthesia, pain, discomfort and sometimes loss of toenails. Onychomycosis causes 50% of nail abnormalities, such as faded or yellow-hued toe nails. If you have noticed any recent changes in your toenail beds or have been experiencing some of the symptoms mentioned above, you may be suffering from onychomycosis. Fungal infections that afflict the feet can be hard to treat, but it’s not impossible. There are many simple and natural solutions that can heal them in a matter of weeks. If your symptoms progress or worsen following treatment, we always recommend making an appointment with your GP. In the meantime, below are a few simple ways to treat fungal infections naturally and efficiently.

Lifestyle changes

Onychomycosis is often caused by lifestyle choices that are very easy to change, like making sure you wear sandals or proper footwear in public spaces. Other preventive lifestyle choices include:

• wearing dry cotton socks and shoes.
• taking your socks and shoes off after a long day and sleep barefoot.
• investing in shoes that are not too tight, so your feet have room to breathe.
• changing your wet socks frequently, if you work in a moist environment.
• washing your feet every night with cold water, Dry thoroughly.

Tea tree oil

When it comes to treating fungal infections of the feet, tea tree oil is the foot warrior. It is a natural antiseptic and gets deep into the foot to fight off fungal infections. Tea tree oil softens corns (those unsightly abnormal growths on your toes) smoothes out scrapes and cuts, and can help clear away warts. To make the most of this funny-smelling oil, add a few drops it to some olive oil and apply generously to feet. Pay particular attention to the nail beds. When finished, let it soak into your skin overnight.

Baking soda

Baking soda is an alkaline powder that can be used as a preventative measure against the onset of onychomycosis. If already infected with onychomycosis, baking soda can be used to stop the spread of infection. It is best to mix baking soda with white vinegar. To use, add 4 to 5 tablespoons of baking soda to 250 ml white vinegar and then add 250 ml of water. Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl (large enough for your feet) and let them soak for 15 minutes or more. Do this twice a day for a week.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a powerful anti-fungal agent that can clear up onychomycosis in a matter of weeks. Apple cider vinegar is loaded with anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. Apple cider vinegar is potent because it eliminates the fungus from the root and prevents other bacterial infections from starting. To use apple cider vinegar, mix equal parts of vinegar and water in a large bowl. Soak feet for 30 minutes. Do not wash off. Repeat on a daily basis, 2 to 3 times a day.

Lemon juice

The citric acid of lemon juice helps stop fungal infections in their tracks. Lemon  also produces a natural aromatic and antiseptic agent that will reduce odor. Add one squeezed lemon to a large bowl of warm water. Let feet soak for 3o minutes. If you want, you can add a touch of olive oil to the mixture. In both cases, repeat this remedy on a daily basis until symptoms clear up.

Yogurt

The thought of putting yogurt on your feet may sound silly, but it works. Yogurt can help to relieve callous build-up along with patches of itchy and dry skin. Yogurt contains astringent properties and is rich in zinc and lactic acid, which make it perfect for fighting off common fungal infections. Yogurt is also a good option for those you are looking for an economical way to treat onychomycosis. Add 120ml of epsom salt to 240ml of plain yogurt (make sure the yogurt is 100% organic and does not contain added preservatives or sweeteners). In a small bowl, mix the epsom salts and the yogurt. Apply directly to your feet and massage in circles. Wash with cold water and repeat monthly on a daily basis.