Homemade Treatment for Green or Yellow Fungus Toenails

Twenty-five percent of adults will experience some type of nail fungus by the time they are 40 years old. A weakened immune system can make you more susceptible to fungal infections.

Prescriptions to treat toenail fungus are expensive, and may adversely affect the liver. By using homemade ingredients that most of us have on hand, we can save money without harming our bodies.

Causes

• Toenail fungus begins when trauma to the toenail creates a small space, and microscopic fungi enter, flourishing in the moist environment of socks and shoes. It occurs more often on the big toe.

  Poor circulation to the feet makes diabetics more susceptible to toenail fungus. Swelling due to fluid retention may cause toenail fungus in people with lung problems.

  People walking barefoot through moist environments such as a gym shower room, or swimming pool, can pick up a fungal infection.

  Shoes should have a wide toe box, so that feet are not cramped and breathable cotton or woolen socks keep feet dry.

Symptoms

• Nails may become thick and crumbly and turn a yellow color. The area around the nail can swell, and completely fall off. Pseudomonas bacteria grow under a partially separated nail bed, causing infection and the nail to turn green. Pseudomonas are not a fungal disease, and occur more commonly in fingernails.

Home Remedies

• Baking soda: The alkali in baking soda combines with the acids in our body to release carbon-dioxide gas, which inhibits fungus growth. After making a thick paste of baking soda and water, rub onto affected toenails, leave on about 30 minutes, then rinse, and dry.

  Treat nails at least once a day. The toenail may come loose, with a healthy nail growing underneath.

  Olive Oil and Oregano Oil: Oil of oregano is antibacterial, antiseptic, and contains carvacrol, a plant ingredient that is especially effective against fungi. Mix two teaspoons of oregano oil with one teaspoon of olive oil, and apply to the toenails at least twice a day. Results should be seen in about a month.

  Onion Juice: The people of India believe this is the best cure for fungus toenails. Soak cotton ball in onion juice and dab onto toenails, or rub an onion directly across the nail. Sufferers are also urged to eat plenty of onions.

  Vinegar: Any type of vinegar will work. If you prefer to soak your feet, fill a large bowl with vinegar until toenails are completely submerged. Soak for 30 minutes, three times a day.

  Buying enough vinegar for all those treatments will be expensive, so you may prefer to dab vinegar on a cotton ball and apply to toenails.