Fungus on toenails is a common condition that could happen to anyone. It starts with a mild rash on the feet or around the toe, which extends into the toenail bed. When the fungus begins, it starts showing yellowish white spots growing under the nail bed. The fungus can grow and spread to other toenails, making immediate treatment imperative. This article helps you with five treatment options to rid your nails of fungus.

Tea Tree and Eucalyptus Oils
These natural oils are a potent source to ward off fungus from nails. There are various ways to use these natural nail fungus treatment options:

• Dip a cotton ball in diluted oil and press it against a nail bed.
• Mix tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil in a warm water bowl and soak the feet in it.
• Apply diluted oil to the nail bed directly every night before bed.

Baking Soda
Baking soda is an effective kitchen ingredient used to clean almost anything around the house. It can clean the most rigid grease on the stove and in the sink. Similarly, it can be used as a natural remedy for nail fungus. Baking soda can be used in two ways:

• Create a thick paste of baking soda and water, and apply it to the affected nail.
• Add baking soda to a bowl of warm water and soak your feet in the solution.

Vinegar
Many individuals use vinegar in its diluted form to clean their feet and eliminate the closed-feet odor. Likewise, one may use vinegar for nail fungus. You can dilute vinegar in warm water and soak your feet in that solution for about 20 minutes. When treating nail fungus, one can also mix vinegar with essential oil to cover its strong odor.

Mouthwash
Most mouthwashes contain ingredients such as menthol, thymol, and eucalyptus. These have antibacterial and antifungal properties that help eliminate unwanted bacteria and prevent them from growing. Add mouthwash with water in a bowl or a bucket that will be able to accommodate your feet. This product also is a popular home remedy that helps get rid of fungus and is also used to keep the feet smelling fresh.

Ozonated Oils
Oils like sunflower or olive oil are injected with ozone gas to increase their antifungal and antibacterial properties, helping the skin heal from burns and wounds when used topically. Ozonated oils can also be used as one of the natural remedies for nail fungus.

These are some really simple yet best nail fungus treatments, and they can be repeated twice or thrice a week. Stick to one of these methods or mix it up to try and see what works best for you. Although, do remember to dry your feet thoroughly after soaking them in warm water. If you have a severe infection, it’s best to see a specialist and use treatment options to prevent it from spreading. There are many over-the-counter options, but a doctor’s opinion for a prescribed treatment is recommended.

Signs of Toenail Fungus
The above-listed methods tell you how to treat toenail fungus at home. Read on to know what signs should you watch out for to catch a fungal infection in time:

• Discolored toenails (yellow, brown, or white)
• Lack of shine
• Cloudy nails
• Thick nails
• Fragile or cracked nails
• Brittle, crumbly, or ragged nails
• Foul-smelling nails
• Pain in the tips of toes
• Nails separate from the nail bed

It’s imperative to treat nail fungus when first spotted as it can easily become a fungal nail infection, posing a risk for it to spread.

Preventing Toenail Fungus
Besides treating toenail fungus when diagnosed, it is also important to prevent it from returning. The chances of toenail fungus recurring are high, and thus, here are some simple ways to avoid fungal infections:

• Wash your feet thoroughly after coming home from an outdoor activity.
• Dry your feet thoroughly as bacteria need a moist environment to develop.
• Wear open shoes or opt for breathable fabrics.
• Don’t wear wet socks or shoes for a long time.
• Disinfect your nail clippers and fillers before use.
• Enjoy a warm water soak with either baking soda or vinegar.
• Avoid wearing polish all the time; let your nails breathe.
• Limit your number of manicures and pedicures, or ensure their tools are sterilized before every use.
• Avoid swimming, steam baths, and locker rooms as these areas can trigger bacterial growth.
• Restrict yourself from activities that cause your feet to sweat.
• Do your indoor workouts barefoot whenever possible.

Getting rid of toenail fungus is not as easy as it may seem. This type of bacteria quickly affects the quality of nails, deteriorating them in color and sheen. That said, repeat the above-listed natural remedies for nail fungus at least twice a week for results to show. Keep your feet as dry as possible, and wash your socks and shoes regularly.