Toenail fungus is a common fungal infection that grows in moist, warm and dark environments that affects mostly on toenails and fingernails. It appears as yellow or white spots on one or more nails that might result in further discoloration, swelling, pain, thickening and crumbling of nail edges, if left untreated.
The fungus can thrive under certain circumstances like weakened immune system, abnormal pH levels, frequent exposure to moist environment (like sweat shoes and socks), diabetes, poor hygiene, etc. Finally, it causes cracking, splitting and even loss of the toenail.
However there are various over the counter anti-fungal creams that give relief from this infection bit the usage of natural home remedies like apple cider vinegar (ACV) will definitely relieves you from this toenail fungus in a safe, cost effective that gives long lasting results.
Is Apple Cider Vinegar good for Toenail Fungus?
- Apple cider vinegar (ACV) has antifungal and antiseptic properties that fight against the germs, bacteria and other micro-organisms causing nail fungus.
- Fungus will generally thrive when the skin becomes more alkaline but the usage of ACV increases acidity and balances the skin’s pH level and kills fungus.
- It strengthens the immune system, cleans the applied area, removes fungus and prevents its recurrence, if used regularly.
How to use Apple Cider Vinegar for Toenail Fungus:
Here are the best and effective methods that give you relief from the toenail fungus. Let’s get started.
Method – 1: (Apple Cider Vinegar)
Apple cider vinegar is alone is capable of clearing the fungus and it is very simple process.
Steps to be followed…
- Add equal quantities of organic apple cider vinegar and water in a large bowl.
- Stir well and soak your infected nails in it for about 30 minutes.
- Remove the nail and dry it thoroughly.
- Repeat the same process daily for 3 – 4 weeks to get complete relief from nail fungus.
Note: Or apply apple cider vinegar directly on the affected toenail using a cotton ball (or swab) and do the same for 2 – 3 times daily.
Method – 2: (Apple Cider Vinegar with Listerine)
Listerine has thymol that exhibits antifungal and antibacterial properties to treat toenail fungus. This combination helps to clear fungus effectively without any side effects.
Steps to be followed…
- Add equal quantities of apple cider vinegar and Listerine in a wide bowl.
- Stir well by adding twice the amount of warm water in it.
- Then immerse your washed feet in this warm water and soak the feet till the water cools down.
- Remove your feet and scrub it gently with a foot scrubber to remove the dead skin cells.
- Rinse off and dry your feet to apply a moisturizer.
- Regular follow up of this process will help you greatly to get rid of the toenail fungus along with its discoloration.
Note: Or mix Listerine, ACV and fresh lemon juice in a bowl. Stir well and soak your toes for about 10 – 15 minutes. Remove from water and scrub your toes gently for few minutes. Dry it and repeat 2 times daily till you cleared toenail fungus.
Method – 3: (Apple Cider Vinegar with Manuka Honey)
Honey has anti-inflammatory that soothes the irritated nail along with killing the fungus on the affected areas.
Steps to be followed…
- Mix 1 teaspoon of manuka honey and 2 tablespoons of raw apple cider vinegar in 1 glass of warm water.
- Stir well and drink it to get relief from nail fungus from inside out.
- Regular intake of ACV – honey drink will not only give relief from nail fungus but also provide many health benefits.
Method – 4: (Apple Cider Vinegar with Epsom Salt)
Epsom salt soaking will provide many benefits including nail fungus.
Steps to be followed…
- Add 1/3 cup each of apple cider vinegar and Epsom salt in 2 cups of hot water.
- Mix well and soak your toes in it for about 30 – 35 minutes.
- Take out and dry your feet thoroughly.
- Repeat the same for 2 – 3 times daily until you cleared the toenail fungus.
Method – 5: (Apple Cider Vinegar with Rice Flour)
This is an antifungal exfoliating scrub that removes fungus affecting the toenail. This not only removes fungus but also clears dead skin cells that keep the skin soft.
Steps to be followed…
- Mix enough quantities of ground rice flour and apple cider vinegar in a bowl.
- Stir well to make it fine thick scrub paste.
- Apply it on the affected nail and scrub it gently on and around the affected nail for few minutes.
- Rinse off and dry the area thoroughly.
- Continue doing this scrubbing process for few times a week till the fungus has gone completely.
Tips and Precautions:
- For best results, always prefer organic, raw, unfiltered and unpasteurized apple cider vinegar that has the mother for treating many health and beauty problems, including nail fungus.
- Fungus will thrive in warm and moist areas, so always keep the nails dry and fresh to prevent the spread of infection to other nails.
- If any of this foot baths is causing irritation, then use it less frequently or dilute vinegar with extra water or else stop using and consult your physician to get diagnose and treatment.
- Weak immune system is one cause for this nail fungus. So, strengthen your immune system with healthy diet. Also, avoid sharing shoes and socks (or) use fresh set of shoes and socks to get rid of this infection.
- Include apple cider vinegar in your daily diet to grab many health and beauty benefits but be sure to use straw while drinking apple cider vinegar to prevent the damage to tooth enamel.
- Don’t go barefoot in public pools, lockers or showers and also wear synthetic socks that keep your feet dry and clean.
- If you want to cover the nails affected by fungus use antifungal nail polishes instead of the regular ones. Regular ones will trap moisture and worsen the infection. However, antifungal nail polishes contain antifungal ingredient which will fight against the fungus. Don’t fall for the spam products. Always make sure to buy the original ones mentioned “HERE”. These brands are designed and developed by experienced podiatrists.
That’s all about Apple Cider Vinegar for Toenail Fungus, follow them regularly and share your experience with us.
Alojamiento says
Lavender oil. It will seem to heat up the area to which it is applied, but do not be scared, it doesn t burn. Works very quickly. It is also good for toenail fungus, but that takes a much longer regimen to see results.
Sruthika says
Lavender essential oil has antifungal and antiseptic properties and also contains several volatile compounds that prevent nail fungus. You can use 100% pure lavender oil either directly or mixed with tea tree oil on the affected nail to get rid of fungus.