A fungal infection of the fingernails can be quite an embarrassing and painful problem. It is caused by fungi known as dermatophytes which burrow under your nails, causing discoloration, thickness and pain. Your nails become brittle and cracked. They might even emit a bad odor. Fingernail fungus can go deeper if you do not treat this infection on time, leading to more serious problems. So, if you have discolored and brittle nails, it could be a fingernail fungus infection that you need to treat immediately. There is no need to go to a doctor if you start this treatment at home early. Try out these natural cures which are very effective in getting rid of this infection.
9 Most Effective Ways For Fingernail Fungus
Lemon Juice
Lemon juice serves as an antiseptic as well as antifungal agent. It contains citric acid which helps stop the fingernail fungus from spreading. Make use of this simple and easily available natural cure to get rid of your fingernail fungus.
Squeeze out some fresh lemon juice and soak the affected fingers in this juice for around two minutes. Take out your finger and wash it with warm water after ten minutes. Do it once daily for a month to get rid of this infection completely. You can also add a little olive oil to lemon juice as it will help soften the hardened nails and skin.
Lavender Oil
Lavender oil contains compounds that have antiseptic properties and its use can help fight many skin infections. It is also very soothing and prevents skin irritation. You can add a few drops of tea tree oil to a bowl of lavender oil in order to make it more effective.
Warm this solution a little. Now, apply on the affected finger with the help of a cotton ball. Make sure you are applying it well under the edge of the nail and the surrounding area. It is best to apply this solution before going to bed every day. Applying it for a month will get rid of the fingernail fungus completely.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is mildly acidic and is therefore very effective in killing the germs as well as preventing the fingernail fungus from spreading. Mix some apple cider vinegar and water in equal measures and soak the affected fingers in this solution every day for around half an hour. After this, wash and dry your fingers thoroughly.
Another useful cure, using apple cider vinegar, is to mix some coarse ground rice flour with it and applying it on your fingers. Gently scrubbing with this paste helps to remove the dead skin and also keeps your skin soft.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is used to treat many fungal infections as it has strong antiseptic and fungicide properties. The antifungal properties being very high in this oil, it is a natural effective cure for treating fingernail fungus. You can directly apply tea tree oil over the affected fingers with the help of a cotton ball. It penetrates the affected finger, destroys the fungi and cures the fingernail fungus if applied regularly for a month.
If you find tea tree oil too strong for your sensitive skin, you can dilute it with some olive oil as well. This remedy is very beneficial if done at early stages as soon as you notice a fingernail fungus developing on your fingers.
Garlic
Garlic is effective in treating many health related issues. It is an easily available natural cure that can be used to treat fingernail fungus. Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which possesses antifungal properties. So, use it if you have a fingernails fungus problem to deal with. First thing, you will have to prepare some garlic oil if it is not easily available in a nearby health store. It is really quite simple to prepare.
Just crush two to three cloves of garlic and add two tablespoons of slightly warmed olive oil. Let this mixture sit for at least a day and then use this oil for treating your fingernail fungus. Since you are suffering from a fungal infection, eating four to five raw garlic cloves every day will also benefit you immensely.
Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil is another effective natural cure for treating fingernail fungus. It possesses powerful antifungal and antiseptic properties, which will help to kill the fungus causing this infection effectively. Dilute eucalyptus oil with some olive oil and rub on the affected finger with the help of a cotton ball.
It will kill the infection and also make the skin as well as your nails softer. Apply twice a day for at least fifteen days. The infected nail will start showing signs of improvement within a week of application.
Orange Oil
You can use pure orange oil to get rid of your fingernail fungus effectively. Orange oil has antifungal properties which help cure the fingernail fungus naturally. Apply some orange oil to the infected finger, and the area around it, with the help of a cotton ball or a dropper. Wash it off only after an hour to get the best results. Some people have an allergic reaction to orange oil.
If you are one of them, just dilute it with some olive oil or grape seed oil, and then apply. Test for allergy by applying an undiluted drop on a small spot of skin on the back of your hand.
Keep Your Hands Clean And Dry
An important part of the natural cure process is to keep your hands clean and as dry as possible. Fingernail fungus thrives in a moist and unclean environment. Therefore, ensure that you wipe your hands well after washing them.
Apply some talcum powder and do not keep washing hands often. If you have to do household chores, and it involves activities like washing vessels, get someone to do this work till your infection is cured completely.
Foods To Boost Your Immunity
If you are suffering from fingernail fungus, it could be due to a lower immunity. Boost your immunity with eating lots of vitamin and mineral rich fresh fruits and vegetables. Eat foods that have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
Spice up your dishes with black pepper, cayenne pepper, ginger, garlic, and coconut oil. These will also help your body with all kinds of infections.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.