Nail fungus makes nails brittle and discolored, which is unpleasant, unhealthy and, if anyone notices, very embarrassing.If left untreated, it can cause cracking, splitting, and even complete loss of your nails.
Dermatophytes spend a lot of time in warm, humid environments, are easily transmitted by contact or household objects, and if you suffer from diabetes, have a weak immune system and have a smoking habit, you are at particular risk.
Oral antifungal tablets, creams, nail treatments, and other commercial treatments certainly 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?
The fungus thrives 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 their recurrence.
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 any side effects.
1. Soaking in apple cider vinegar
- Take a bowl and mix equal amounts of apple cider vinegar and water.Make sure there is enough solution to dip your toes or fingers into.
- Leave to soak for 30 minutes and dry with a soft towel.
- Let your feet or toes dry completely to remove any residual moisture.
- Massage your toes for a few minutes with a mixture of tea tree, coconut or oregano oil.
- Repeat the process regularly.
For best results, use warm or cold water.
Before the procedure, trim your nails, this will help the vinegar to penetrate the deeper layers of the epidermis and work more effectively.Never use vinegar twice – as soon as you finish your bath, throw away the water.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 not diluted, 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 it dry completely.
- Repeat at least 2 times a day.
3. Consumption of apple cider vinegar
Drinking diluted apple cider vinegar for nail fungus strengthens the immune system, which helps fight the infection from within.
- Add 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to half a liter of water.
- Drink the solution throughout the day.
- You can relax and drink a glass when you feel 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 some rice flour (coarsely ground) to make 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 well.
- Repeat the process regularly.
Optional: you can use antifungal ointment.
5. Apple cider vinegar with salt
The salt gently exfoliates the skin and nails, which helps 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 hot 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.
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 slight discoloration, thickening of the nail, swelling of the surrounding skin, pain, and dark discoloration.
- Fill the bathtub 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 the 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 it dissolve.
- Now add 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, water and hydrogen peroxide (3%).
- Mix well and let your nails soak for 30-45 minutes.
- Rinse with water and clean well.
Repeat the process daily until the infection disappears.
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 sulfate.
- Mix well and pour the mixture into a liter spray bottle filled with water.
- Spray the solution onto the affected nail and let it dry completely.
Repeat the process regularly.
9. Apple cider vinegar, peroxide and antibiotic ointment
- Combine 1 capful of apple cider vinegar and hydrogen peroxide.
- Dip the tip into the mixture and rub it into 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 an antibiotic ointment on the nail fungus.
Tips and precautions
Use organic, unfiltered, and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar for best results.
If applying ACV or soaking causes irritation, try diluting it with water.
Apple cider vinegar can wear down your enamel, which is why it is recommended to drink it through a straw.Including ACV in your daily diet also helps treat and prevent nail fungus.
Sometimes a nail may fall off with use – continue using vinegar until a new nail grows in completely.This usually takes 2 to 6 months.
Whenever you go to a pedicure or manicure salon, make sure the staff only use sterilized instruments.Tools like 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 wear flip-flops instead of shoes until the nail fungus completely disappears.
Before wearing socks, apply antifungal powder.
Avoid sharing tight socks and shoes.
People with diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, or anything else that restricts blood flow to the legs should take special care when treating fungus.
Avoid using nail polish and artificial nails, as they create a humid environment and impede the flow of oxygen.
Reduce your sugar intake as it encourages fungal growth.
If the above remedies do not work, consult your doctor.