Natural Treatment for Nail Fungus
Natural treatments for nail fungus are often in the form of over-the-counter (OTC) solutions, creams or home remedies. While not all natural nail fungus treatments will work for everyone, they are all much safer than the prescription medications taken orally for the treatment of nail fungus.
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Function
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Most natural nail fungus treatments have anti-fungal properties that kill fungi and yeast spores on the surface of the nail and surrounding areas, as well as inhibit the growth of the fungus, They may even contain anti-bacterial properties to help aid in healing the infection.
Effects
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The anti-fungal properties of the natural treatments keep the infection from progressing. As the treatment keeps the growth of the fungus under control, the healthy replacement nail is allowed to grow free from fungal infection as the treatment continues.
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Types
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Some natural OTC treatments for nail fungus may include ingredients such as tea tree oil, which can also be purchased by itself. ZetaClear incorporates a mix of tea tree, jojoba and almond oils in a natural anti-fungal solution. Nail-Rx uses a mixture of anti-fungal oils as well, such as tea tree, lemon grass and lavender oils. Pedi-Cure makes a natural cream formula, incorporating a blend of essential oils and silver oxide.
Considerations
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Many people find common household substances useful in treating nail fungus infections. Although if these home remedies are used in place of laboratory-tested formulas, the time allowed for treatment should be equal to or longer than a natural OTC treatment. Natural ingredient home remedies include tea tree oil, Epsom salt soaks, apple cider or white vinegar.
Prevention/Solution
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An important part of the natural treatment for nail fungus is keeping the area clean and dry, and letting the area get plenty of fresh air--as well as sunlight. The fungus thrives in warm, dark, moist areas. When the nail is kept as short as possible, the natural oils and ingredients of the treatment are able to reach further under the nail bed, directly to the source of the infection. This also helps prevent reinfection and keeps the fungus from spreading to healthy nails.
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