Nail fungus leaves nails brittle and discolored, which is unsightly, unhealthy, and, if anyone notices, downright embarrassing.If left untreated, it can lead to cracking, splitting and even complete loss of nails.
Dermatophytes spend time in warm, humid environments, are easily transmitted by contact or household objects, and if you have diabetes, a weak immune system and a smoking habit, you are particularly at risk.
Oral antifungal tablets, creams, nail treatments, and other commercial treatments definitely work, but sometimes you can get by with an inexpensive home remedy.Like tea tree oil and apple cider vinegar.
How effective is it really?
Fungi thrive in a moist, alkaline environment with a high pH, and apple cider vinegar (ACV) is acidic and also contains antifungal and antibacterial properties that fight nail infections and prevent them from recurring.
Use apple cider vinegar on your feet and say goodbye to that nasty fungal infection.
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar to Treat Nail Fungus
Apple cider vinegar is completely safe and has many benefits for children and adults.The following methods of using apple cider vinegar will help treat and prevent nail fungus without side effects.
1. Soak apple cider vinegar
- Take a bowl, combine equal quantities of apple cider vinegar and water.Make sure there is enough solution to soak your toes or fingers.
- Soak for 30 minutes and dry with a soft towel.
- Allow your feet or toes to dry completely to remove any remaining moisture.
- Massage your toes for a few minutes with a blend of tea tree, coconut or oregano oil.
- Repeat the process regularly.
For best results, use hot or cold water.
Before the procedure, cut your nails, this will help the vinegar penetrate into the deeper layers of the epidermis and work more effectively.Never use vinegar twice: as soon as you finish your bath, throw the water away.Immersion in contaminated water has no effect and can slow the healing process.
2. Direct use of apple cider vinegar for nails
This process can be used after bathing or at any time of the day.When vinegar is undiluted, it provides more effective results.But if you can't stand applying ACV directly, you can dilute it with a few drops of water.
- Pour a few drops of apple cider vinegar directly onto the infected nail.
- Let dry completely.
- Repeat at least 2 times a day.
3. Consumption of apple cider vinegar
Drinking diluted apple cider vinegar against nail fungus strengthens the immune system, which helps fight the infection from within.
- Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a pint of water.
- Drink the solution throughout the day.
- You can relax and have a drink when you are thirsty.
Note: If you can't stand the taste of apple cider vinegar, add 1 teaspoon of honey.
4. Apple cider vinegar with rice flour
- Combine 2-3 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and a little rice flour (coarsely ground) to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to the infected nail and rub gently to remove dead particles.
- After brushing, leave the mixture for a few more minutes.
- Rinse with water and dry the nail thoroughly.
- Repeat the process regularly.
Optional: You can use an antifungal ointment.
5. Apple cider vinegar with salt
The salt gently exfoliates the skin and nails, helping the healing properties of apple cider vinegar work more effectively and quickly.
- Combine 1/3 cup each of apple cider vinegar and Epsom salt and 2 cups of warm water.
- Mix well and soak your toes or fingers for 30 minutes.
- Repeat the process 1-2 times a day.
Note: The longer you wait, the better the result will be.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar with Listerine
This process can be used daily for mild to moderate conditions such as white spots on the nails and mild discoloration, thickening of the nail, swelling of the surrounding skin, pain, and dark discoloration.
- Fill the tub by adding equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and Listerine.
- Mix well and leave your nails in the solution for 10-15 minutes.
- Using a toothbrush, gently scrub your nails and surrounding skin.
- Dry the nail completely.
7. Apple cider vinegar, borax, hydrogen peroxide and hot water
- Add 2 tablespoons of borac to hot water and let dissolve.
- Now add 1/4 cup each of apple cider vinegar, water and hydrogen peroxide (3%).
- Mix well and soak your nails for 30-45 minutes.
- Rinse with water and dry thoroughly.
Repeat the procedure every day until the infection goes away.
8. Apple cider vinegar with copper sulfate
Copper sulfate contains antiseptic and antifungal properties that kill athlete's foot.
- Combine 40 ml of apple cider vinegar and 20 g of copper sulphate.
- Mix well and pour the mixture into a one-liter spray bottle filled with water.
- Spray the solution on the affected nail and let it dry completely.
Repeat the process regularly.
9. Apple cider vinegar, peroxide and antibiotic ointment
- Combine 1 cap full of apple cider vinegar and peroxide.
- Dip the tip into the mixture and rub it on the affected area.
Note: The solution may fizz, but the reaction will occur within a few minutes.
Repeat 3 times a day.
During the day, rub antibiotic ointment on your nail fungus.
Advice and precautions
Use organic, unfiltered, unpasteurized apple cider vinegar for best results.
If applying wine vinegar or soaking causes irritation, try diluting it with water.
Apple cider vinegar can wear down your enamel, so it's recommended to drink it through a straw.Including ACV in your daily diet also helps treat and prevent nail fungus.
Sometimes a nail can fall off with use - keep using the vinegar until a new one grows completely.It usually takes 2 to 6 months.
Whenever you visit a salon for a pedicure or manicure, make sure the staff uses only sterilized tools.Tools such as files, nail clippers and nail polishers can spread the fungus.
Trim the infected nail regularly.
Never use the same towels to dry the affected nail.It is better to use paper ones.
Wash your feet when returning from public places such as locker rooms, showers, spas and swimming pools.
It is best to use flip flops instead of shoes until the toenail fungus is completely gone.
Before putting on socks, be sure to apply antifungal powder.
Avoid sharing socks and tight shoes.
People with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or anything else that limits blood flow to the legs should be especially careful when treating mushrooms.
Avoid wearing nail polish and artificial nails as they create a humid environment and impede the flow of oxygen.
Reduce sugar intake as it stimulates fungal growth.
If the above remedies do not work, consult your doctor.