Onychomycosis, also known as tinea unguium, is a fungal infection of the nail. Symptoms may include white or yellow nail discoloration, thickening of the nail, and separation of the nail from the nail bed. Toenails or fingernails may be affected, but it is more common for toenails to be affected. Complications may include cellulitis of the lower leg.

A number of different types of fungus can cause onychomycosis including dermatophytes and Fusarium. Risk factors include athlete's foot, other nail ...

onychomycosis

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Natural-remedies

Natural remedies

Tea-tree-oil-(Melaleuca-alternifolia)

Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)

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Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of the Australian tea tree, Melaleuca alternifolia. This plant is a member of the Myrtaceae family and is native to Australia. Tea tree oil has been widely studied for its antifungal properties and is considered a potent alternative for treating onychomycosis (1).

Recipe-for-home-preparation

Recipe for home preparation

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Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or almond oil, and apply it to the affected nails twice daily.

Scientific-reference

Scientific reference

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&nbsp;(1) Hammer, K. A., Carson, C. F., &amp; Riley, T. V. (2003). Antifungal activity of the components of Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 95(4), 853-860.

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Oregano-oil-(Origanum-vulgare)

Oregano oil (Origanum vulgare)

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Oregano oil is derived from the leaves and flowers of the oregano plant, Origanum vulgare. This plant belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is native to the Mediterranean region. Oregano oil contains a compound called carvacrol, which has been shown to possess strong antifungal properties against nail fungus (2).

&nbsp;Mix 2-3 drops of oregano oil with a carrier oil and apply to the affected nails twice daily.

&nbsp;(2) Nostro, A., Sudano Roccaro, A., Bisignano, G., Marino, A., Cannatelli, M. A., Pizzimenti, F. C., ... &amp; Blanco, A. R. (2007). Effects of oregano, carvacrol and thymol on Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms. Journal of Medical Microbiology, 56(4), 519-523.

Garlic-(Allium-sativum)

Garlic (Allium sativum)

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Garlic, Allium sativum, is a member of the Alliaceae family and has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Recent studies have shown that garlic extracts exhibit potent antifungal activity against onychomycosis (3).

&nbsp;Crush a few cloves of garlic and apply the paste directly onto the affected nails. Alternatively, you can also dilute garlic oil with a carrier oil and apply it to the nails.

&nbsp;(3) Lemar, K. M., Turner, M. P., &amp; Lloyd, D. (2002). Garlic (Allium sativum) as an anti-Candida agent: a comparison of the efficacy of fresh garlic and freeze-dried extracts. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 93(3), 398-405.

Cinnamon-oil-(Cinnamomum-zeylanicum)

Cinnamon oil (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

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Cinnamon oil is derived from the bark of the cinnamon tree, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, which belongs to the Lauraceae family. Studies have shown that cinnamon oil has antifungal activity against nail fungus (4).

&nbsp;Mix a few drops of cinnamon oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or almond oil, and apply it to the affected nails twice daily.

(4) Quale, J. M., Landman, D., Zaman, M. M., Burney, S., &amp; Sathe, S. S. (1996). In vitro activity of Cinnamomum zeylanicum against azole resistant and sensitive Candida species and a pilot study of cinnamon for oral candidiasis. The American journal of Chinese medicine, 24(02), 103-109.

Questions-and-Answers

Questions and Answers

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Q: How long does it take to see improvement in my nails after using these herbal remedies?

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A: The duration for visible improvement varies from person to person, depending on the severity of the infection and individual response to the treatment. However, it's important to be patient and consistent with the application of these herbal remedies. You may start to see improvement in a few weeks, but it can take several months for the nails to fully recover.

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Q: Can I combine multiple herbal remedies for better results?

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A: Yes, you can combine different herbal remedies to enhance their antifungal properties. For example, you can mix tea tree oil with oregano oil or garlic oil with cinnamon oil. Always make sure to dilute the essential oils with a carrier oil before applying to the affected nails.

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Q: Are there any side effects to using these herbal remedies?

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A: Herbal remedies are generally considered safe when used as directed. However, some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions, especially when using undiluted essential oils. It's important to perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying any remedy to the affected nails. If you experience any adverse effects, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

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Q: Can I use these remedies for toenail fungus as well?

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A: Yes, these herbal remedies can be used for both fingernail and toenail fungus. The application method and frequency remain the same for both types of nail fungus.

Referrals

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(1) Hammer, K. A., Carson, C. F., &amp; Riley, T. V. (2003). Antifungal activity of the components of Melaleuca alternifolia (tea tree) oil. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 95(4), 853-860.

Referrals_1_1

(2) Nostro, A., Sudano Roccaro, A., Bisignano, G., Marino, A., Cannatelli, M. A., Pizzimenti, F. C., ... &amp; Blanco, A. R. (2007). Effects of oregano, carvacrol and thymol on Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis biofilms. Journal of Medical Microbiology, 56(4), 519-523.

Referrals_1_2

(3) Lemar, K. M., Turner, M. P., &amp; Lloyd, D. (2002). Garlic (Allium sativum) as an anti-Candida agent: a comparison of the efficacy of fresh garlic and freeze-dried extracts. Journal of Applied Microbiology, 93(3), 398-405.

Referrals_1_3

(4) Quale, J. M., Landman, D., Zaman, M. M., Burney, S., &amp; Sathe, S. S. (1996). In vitro activity of Cinnamomum zeylanicum against azole resistant and sensitive Candida species and a pilot study of cinnamon for oral candidiasis. The American journal of Chinese medicine, 24(02), 103-109.

In conclusion, herbal remedies like tea tree oil, oregano oil, garlic, and cinnamon oil offer promising alternatives for treating onychomycosis. These natural remedies have been scientifically studied and proven to exhibit antifungal properties against nail fungus. With proper and consistent application, they can potentially help banish nail fungus and restore the health of your nails.

Banishing Nail Fungus: Top Herbal Remedies for Onychomycosis

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Types-of-antifungal-essential-oils

Types of antifungal essential oils

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Essential oils of herbs and spices are some of the most powerful antimicrobial essential oils. Thyme, cinnamon, oregano, cloves and mint are examples of some of the most commonly used antimicrobial oils.

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Citronella, geranium, lemongrass, eucalyptus and mint, among others, have been tested specifically against fungi and found to be effective antimicrobials for this purpose. [&nbsp;<a href="http://www.eurekaselect.com/article/8490" target="_blank" data-ref=" Antibacterial and Antifungal Properties of Essential Oils" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a> ] Tea tree oil is another essential oil that has demonstrated its antifungal abilities in various studies. [&nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8893526/" target="_blank" data-ref="Antibacterial and antifungal activity of ten essential oils in vitro - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;]

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Thymus

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Thyme is a common herb and is usually used as a spice, but it is also available in the form of essential oil. The healing properties of thyme are due to its essential oils, which are extracted by steam distillation of fresh flowers and leaves. The main ingredients of its essential oil are alpha-tuyon, alpha-pinen, campen, beta-pinen and others. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Synergistic_Antifungal_Allelopatic_and_Anti_Proliferative_Potential_of_Salvia_officinalis_L_and_Thymus_vulgaris_L_Essential_Oils_29337923" target="_blank" data-ref="500: Internal Server Error" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;]

Thymus_0_1

Thymus essential oil is effective against fungi infecting humans. Its antifungal activity is mainly due to the high concentration of tymol and carvacol. It has been shown that thyme essential oil demonstrates inhibition of Candida albicans and Candida tropicalis, as well as Fusarium. Also, a study of Klarić et al. shows that molds such as Aspergillus spp, Penicillium spp and Cladosporium spp can be completely inhibited with a thyme oil concentration of 9.85, 19.17 and 15.20 &mu;g/mL, respectively. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/24/20/3713" target="_blank" data-ref="Essential Oils and Their Natural Active Compounds Presenting Antifungal Properties" rel="noopener">[ref. 4]</a>&nbsp;]

Cinnamon-(Cinnamomum-verum)

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

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Cinnamon oil is extracted from the bark or leaves of several types of trees, including the Cinnamomum verum tree and the Cinnamomum cassia tree. A study using bacterial cultures and laboratory tests found that compounds in cinnamon oil have an antimicrobial effect against Pseudomonas aeruginosa - a potentially life-threatening, drug-resistant bacterium that affects plants, humans and other animals. [&nbsp;<a href="https://bmccomplementmedtherapies.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12906-016-1134-9" target="_blank" data-ref="Efficacy of cinnamon bark oil and cinnamaldehyde on anti-multidrug resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa and the synergistic effects in combination with other antimicrobial agents - BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies" rel="noopener">[ref. 5]</a> ] Cinnamon has more proven antibacterial properties and can act synergistically in combination with antibiotic therapy. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Antibacterial_activity_of_cinnamon_essential_oils_and_their_synergistic_potential_with_antibiotics_31041184" target="_blank" data-ref="500: Internal Server Error" rel="noopener">[ref. 6]</a>&nbsp;]

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Also, only Cinnamomum verum, Thymus capitatus, Syzygium aromaticum and Pelargonium graveolens exhibit a wide range of action against various pathogenic candida strains, as commented in "Antifungal mechanism of the combination of Cinnamomum verum and Pelargonium graveolens essential oils with fluconazole against pathogenic Candida strains."&nbsp;<a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00253-017-8442-y?error=cookies_not_supported&amp;code=340861b7-7e9b-40bc-b69e-749fcccd07b3" target="_blank" data-ref="Antifungal mechanism of the combination of Cinnamomum verum and Pelargonium graveolens essential oils with fluconazole against pathogenic Candida strains - Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology" rel="noopener"></a>&nbsp;

Origanum-vulgare

Origanum vulgare 

Origanum-vulgare_0_0

Oregano essential oil can be a more powerful antifungal agent than other commercial products on offer. In addition, it can inhibit and assist the body in dealing with fungal skin infections, including mycosis and ringworm. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/A_herbal_antifungal_formulation_of_Thymus_serpillum_Origanum_vulgare_and_Rosmarinus_officinalis_for_treating_ovine_dermatophytosis_due_to_Trichophyton_mentagrophytes_23368893" target="_blank" data-ref="500: Internal Server Error" rel="noopener">[ref. 8]</a> ] The antifungal effects of oregano essential oils (Origanum syriacum var. bevanii) and dill (Foeniculum vulgare) were investigated against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum in the study "Antifungal effects of essential oils from oregano and fennel on Sclerotinia sclerotiorum." [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Antifungal_effects_of_essential_oils_from_oregano_and_fennel_on_Sclerotinia_sclerotiorum_17897206" target="_blank" data-ref="500: Internal Server Error" rel="noopener">[ref. 9]</a> ] The inhibitory effects of both essential oils have a pronounced antifungal effect against S. sclerotiorum. Another in vitro study reveals the potential of oregano as an herbal antifungal agent against oral candida. The results here are encouraging - O.vulgare shows a 30&plusmn;3 mm zone of inhibition compared to 19 mm for fluconazole (an antifungal drug). The active functional group has a chemically similar structure as carvacola, usually found in antifungal herbs. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Characterization_of_Herbal_Antifungal_Agent_Origanum_vulgare_against_Oral_Candida_spp_Isolated_from_Patients_with_Candida_Associated_Denture_Stomatitis_An_In_vitro_Study_29962756" target="_blank" data-ref="500: Internal Server Error" rel="noopener">[ref. 10]</a>&nbsp;]

Clove-(Syzygium-Aromaticum)

Clove (Syzygium Aromaticum)

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Clove oil (Syzygium Aromaticum) has been shown to have strong antifungal activity against many types of fungi, including some common fungal pathogens of plants and animals, such as Fusarium moniliforme NCIM 1100, Fusarium oxysporum MTCC 284, Aspergillus sp., Mucor sp., Trichophyton rubrum and Microsporum gypseum. It has been established that all types of mushrooms are inhibited by oil when tested by a method of agar diffusion. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.scielo.br/j/bjm/a/35LqTBDxgWYxBDX6tz7BQbm/?lang=en" target="_blank" data-ref="SciELO - Brasil" rel="noopener">[ref. 11]</a>&nbsp;]

Mint-(Mentha)

Mint (Mentha)

Mint-(Mentha)_0_0

Mint-(Mentha)_0_1

The composition and antifungal activity of the essential oil of Mentha cervina from Portugal analyzes the antifungal activity of mint oil. It is evaluated by minimal inhibitory concentrations (MIC) and minimum lethal concentrations (MLC) against Strains Candida, Apergillus and Dermatophytes.&nbsp; The antifungal activity of the sample containing lower amounts of poulegon is highest for dermatophytes, especially epidermophyton floccosum with MIC and MLC values of 0,63 microL mL (-1). Mentha cervina oils with a low poolegon content can be an alternative as antifungal agents in dermatophytosis. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Composition_and_antifungal_activity_of_the_essential_oil_of_Mentha_cervina_from_Portugal_17680495" target="_blank" data-ref="500: Internal Server Error" rel="noopener">[ref. 12]</a>&nbsp;]

Mint-(Mentha)_0_2

Mentha piperita essential oils collected from different provinces such as Turkey, Yakima, Mari-Linn Farms and others imported from India show stronger antibacterial activity against P. syringae pv. syringae, Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato, P. syringae pv. phaseolicola, Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris, and X. campestris pv. 0.07&ndash;1.25 mg/ml range of MIC values. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpls.2018.01295/full#h4" target="_blank" data-ref="Prospective of Essential Oils of the Genus Mentha as Biopesticides: A Review" rel="noopener">[ref. 13]</a>&nbsp;]

Citronella-(Cymbopogon-Winterianus)

Citronella (Cymbopogon Winterianus) 

Citronella-(Cymbopogon-Winterianus)_0_0

Citronella essential oil showed antifungal activity, and concentrations of 625 μg/mL and 1250 μg/mL inhibited the growth of all candida Albicans strains tested and acted fungicidally, as found in "Antifungal activity of Cymbopogon winterianus jowitt ex bor against Candida albicans." [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Antifungal_activity_of_Cymbopogon_winterianus_jowitt_ex_bor_against_Candida_albicans_24031651" target="_blank" data-ref="500: Internal Server Error" rel="noopener">[ref. 14]</a>&nbsp;]

Lemongrass-(Cymbopogon-Commutatus)

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon Commutatus)

Lemongrass-(Cymbopogon-Commutatus)_0_0

Lemongrass-(Cymbopogon-Commutatus)_0_1

From the data in "Antifungal activity of Cymbopogon parkeri stapf. essential oil on some important phytopathogenic fungi" becomes clear that lemongrass essential oil has an antifungal effect on the growth of Rhizoctonia solani, Pyricularia orizea and Fusarium oxysporum, three types of phytopathogenic mushrooms. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Antifungal_activity_of_Cymbopogon_parkeri_stapf_essential_oil_on_some_important_phytopathogenic_fungi_17390842" target="_blank" data-ref="500: Internal Server Error" rel="noopener">[ref. 15]</a> ] Another study found data on the antifungal action of lemongrass oil against Candida albicans, C.tropicalis and Aspergillus niger, with different diameters of the inhibition zone. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Lemon_grass_Cymbopogon_citratus_essential_oil_as_a_potent_anti_inflammatory_and_antifungal_drugs_28156278" target="_blank" data-ref="500: Internal Server Error" rel="noopener">[ref. 16]</a>&nbsp;]

Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus_0_0

Leaves of the eucalyptus species are traditionally used to treat wounds and fungal infections. Essential oils and extracts of certain types of eucalyptus have antimicrobial and antitumor properties. For example, Eucalyptus sideroxylon and Eucalyptus torquata, grown in Egypt, exhibit antimicrobial actions against medically important gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Gram-positive bacteria are highly sensitive to oils and extracts of both types of eucalyptus. With the exception of Escherichia coli, gram-negative bacteria are resistant to extracts, but are sensitive to the oil obtained from at least one part of E sideroxylon and E torquata. Although Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger are resistant to extracts, essential oils of E sideroxylon and E torquata usually show moderate to high antifungal activity against Candida albicans, A flavus and A niger. [&nbsp;<a href="https://www.herbal-organic.com/bg/pubmed/Antibacterial_antifungal_and_anticancer_activities_of_volatile_oils_and_extracts_from_stems_leaves_and_flowers_of_Eucalyptus_sideroxylon_and_Eucalyptus_torquata_18075306" target="_blank" data-ref="500: Internal Server Error" rel="noopener">[ref. 17]</a>&nbsp;]

How-to-use-antifungal-essential-oils

How to use antifungal essential oils

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You can use antifungal essential oils topically to treat overgrowth of fungi on the skin. Choosing a mixture of two or three oils, along with base oil, such as coconut oil, is the optimal option.

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Mix 2 to 3 drops of each oil together with 20 drops of basic oil, using something clean and disposable, such as a sterile cotton gauze swab to cover the affected area of the skin.

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Make sure that you touch only the area that is affected by the fungus, so as not to spread them on healthy skin. You may need to apply the oils two to three times a day for a period of several weeks to see the results. These oils can also be diffused to refresh the air at home and create a more pleasant atmosphere.

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Essential oils have proven antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent and fungicidal properties. Some may even stimulate the growth of new cells. These properties work together to naturally help tackle fungal infections. Some of the conditions in which they can help are ringworm, nail fungus (onychomycosis), "athlete's leg" (Tinea Pedis) (a type of fungal infection of the foot) and others.

The Power Of Antifungal Essential Oils - And How They Work

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Бетина Цветкова

Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

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About 50% of all reasons for visiting a doctor with a nail problem are due to fungus or onychomycosis. It's appearance can be a sign of lowered immune system functions, poor hygiene or inappropriate shoes.

What-To-Know-About-Nail-Fungus

What To Know About Nail Fungus

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The fungus that attacks the nail is called dermatophyte and initially enter through microscopic injuries and cracks on it, then spread its mycelium inside the nail and feed on the keratin from which the nails are built.

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In appearance, the nail changes color and turns yellow, then begins to break or peal, and at an advanced stage its appearance is so altered that it begins to resemble that of animal horns and hooves.

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Sometimes detachment of the nail due to uncomfortable shoes can be mistaken for fungi and incorrect treatment can be prescribed. Therefore, it is best to take a sample of the nail in a doctor's office, which can be examined for the presence of fungi under a microscope.

Is-Onychomycosis-Dangerous

Is Onychomycosis Dangerous

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Nail fungus is an infection that can develop in extremely unfavorable ways both locally and affecting the whole organism.

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Here are the dangers:

Is-Onychomycosis-Dangerous_1_2

<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">A highly amended nail can make shoes uncomfortable and lead to pain in the foot;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Infection can cause the nail to fall or require its removal from a doctor. The procedure is painful, and in some cases it is necessary to remove the nail "from the root", in which it never grows again;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The fungus can easily spread from the nail to the surrounding skin, causing <a href="/p/omraznitie_ghbichki_kakvo_mozhiem_da_napravim_v_domashni_usloviia_pri_vaghinalna_kandidoza" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a> itching, red, peeling skin, especially between the fingers. They can also spread to the genitals and in particular the lap, inner thighs and buttocks. This condition should not be confused with <a href="/p/omraznitie_ghbichki_kakvo_mozhiem_da_napravim_v_domashni_usloviia_pri_vaghinalna_kandidoza" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">vaginal candidiasis</a>;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">In people with severely weakened immune system or suffering from diabetes, the infection can cause painful wounds to become infected with bacteria and lead to life-threatening conditions.</li>
</ul>

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What-Are-The-Usual-Treatment-Methods

What Are The Usual Treatment Methods

What-Are-The-Usual-Treatment-Methods_2_0

As we said, the problem is not just cosmetic - it is an infection that we need to fight. For this purpose, it is good to visit a dermatologist, who can prescribe treatment with topical agents in mild cases or systemic therapy in advanced disease, ie. taking antifungal medications by mouth. Unfortunately, these drugs are not completely harmless and can seriously burden the liver.

What-Are-The-Usual-Treatment-Methods_2_1

Among the most commonly prescribed drugs are Lamisil (terbinafine), Clotrimazole, Diflucan (fluconazole) and undecylenic acid, which is part of anti-fungal nail polishes.

What-Are-The-Usual-Treatment-Methods_2_2

There are also some home remedies that can support the treatment in the initial stage of the disease, but if you are receiving medication or other local treatment, be sure to consult the attending physician whether home treatment is compatible with the appointed one.

How-To-Prevent-Fungal-Infection-Of-The-Nails

How To Prevent Fungal Infection Of The Nails

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Prevention is the best treatment, so if you can spare yourself the appearance of fungi through a few simple rules in your daily life, it is wiser to do so.

How-To-Prevent-Fungal-Infection-Of-The-Nails_3_1

One of these rules is to keep your toenails short when wearing closed shoes. This is especially true before a hike in the mountains or a sport in which nails push against the shoes and get injured, and this is a great prerequisite for the development of fungi that can occur normally on the skin of the fingers in small quantities and take advantage of the injured nail.

How-To-Prevent-Fungal-Infection-Of-The-Nails_3_2

The second rule is that shoes must be comfortable - any pressing and rubbing leads to microscopic injuries that are an open door for the fungus. This problem most often affects women due to wearing high heels and tight shoes.

How-To-Prevent-Fungal-Infection-Of-The-Nails_3_3

The third rule is that rough skin on the fingers should be delicately removed after each shower - this reduces the amount of fungi that normally feed on this skin, and accordingly reduces the risk of them being transferred to the nail and leading to its infection.

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Fourth rule - do not wear the shoes of other people, especially in sportshalls, where the same pair of shoes is worn by all visitors, and hygiene is at a dubious level.

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Fifth rule - avoid sweating of the feet. When the season is suitable, let's also wear the right shoes. Fungi love warm and moist environment.

How-To-Prevent-Fungal-Infection-Of-The-Nails_3_7

The sixth rule is to be especially careful when using swimming pools, saunas, gyms, communal showers, because these are places where there is an increased risk of infection with fungi due to the humidity and numerous visitors.

Mexican-Plant-Ageratina-pichinchensis-Gives-Promising-Results

Mexican Plant  Ageratina pichinchensis Gives Promising Results

Mexican-Plant-Ageratina-pichinchensis-Gives-Promising-Results_4_0

The Mexican plant Ageratina pichinchensis is also known as Snakeroot.

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A 2008 study [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Double_blind_clinical_trial_for_evaluating_the_effectiveness_and_tolerability_of_Ageratina_pichinchensis_extract_on_patients_with_mild_to_moderate_onychomycosis_A_comparative_study_with_ciclopirox_18671197" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>] shows its effectiveness in the treatment of nail fungus, having been used as follows: extract of the plant was applied topically to the nail every third day in the first month, twice a week in the second month and once a week during the third month.

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The extract has shown the same effectiveness as the drug ciclopirox.

Tea-Tree-Oil

Tea Tree Oil

Tea-Tree-Oil_5_0

There is evidence that tea tree essential oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is just as effective as clotrimazole.

Tea-Tree-Oil_5_1

It can be smeared twice a day directly on the nail. It has a strong antibacterial and antifungal effect. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Comparison_of_two_topical_preparations_for_the_treatment_of_onychomycosis_Melaleuca_alternifolia_tea_tree_oil_and_clotrimazole_8195735" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>]

Oregano-Essential-Oil

Oregano Essential Oil

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Like tea tree essential oil, oregano oil also has antifungal properties. In this case, they are due to the substance thymol.

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Its application is the same as the tea tree - smear the nails twice a day.

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Eucalyptus-Essential-Oil

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

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Good effectiveness of eucalyptus essential oil has been established in superficial infection with nail fungus (onychomycosis). According to the authors of a 2015 study, the effect is comparable to that of certain drugs for topical use. [<a href="https://jfootankleres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1757-1146-8-S2-P1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.3</a>]

onychomycosis

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