What helps nail fungus

How to treat nail fungus

According to research, every third person suffers from nail fungal diseases. Moreover, a few decades ago, nail fungus was very rare.

According to researchers, the disease has gained such a spread due to the advantages of civilization: the high number of swimming pools, public saunas, gyms - created to improve human health. However, when building muscle mass or losing weight, a person rarely pays attention to the danger that is with him: only pathogenic fungi waiting to be one with the new "master".

The results (and not just aesthetic ones) are long overdue. Dark, loose, eroded nails, an unpleasant odor on the feet and shoes are far from the most terrible manifestations of the disease. Without treatment, the fungus can spread to neighboring areas of the body, reduce local immunity, and cause secondary infection - pathogenic bacteria can penetrate tissues and blood, as well as infect others. Family members of the patient are at risk - people who come in contact with surfaces where microscopic particles of infected skin remain. That's why it's a good idea to get an effective home remedy for nail fungus, especially if you visit a gym, swimming pools and other public places where the risk of fungal infections is high.

So what are the best remedies for nail fungus that the modern pharmaceutical industry and traditional medicine offer us?

The best tools for nail fungus

Naftifi-based solution

The active ingredient of the drug - naftifin - has a high "cumulative" effect. This means that when using the drug, naftif accumulates in the tissues of the nail plate and gradually reaches the maximum concentration, which is harmful to fungi. The excipients that make up the drug make it easier for naphtha to enter the nail tubes, through which the fungus actually spreads.

Advantages. In addition to the antifungal effect, the drug prevents secondary infection of the affected tissues, eliminates itching and quickly eliminates inflammatory processes triggered by fungal infections.

Disadvantages. No clinical trials have been conducted to confirm or deny the drug's safety. Therefore, today the drug is contraindicated for the treatment of children, pregnant and lactating women, as well as people with intolerance to any component of this drug.

Class. The complex effect of the drug is its only, but significant, advantage, which provided the drug with 9 points out of ten in the ranking of the best remedies for nail fungus.

From the reviews: "I treated the fungus on the skin between the nails and between the fingers. Frankly, the fungus survives, but not the itching it caused. This drug literally eliminated itching in a day, although the actual fungus was treated according to the instructions - nailuntil completely grown.

Drugs based on ketoconazole

The active substance - ketoconazole - has a strong antifungal effect and is effective against most yeasts, molds and other fungi. By penetrating the nail tissue affected by the fungus, ketoconazole disrupts the metabolism of these organisms and destroys their cell membrane, which is a stopping factor for the formation of fungal colonies and their further proliferation.

Advantages. The high effectiveness is confirmed by clinical studies, but the recovery rate of nail lesions was considered for the last time: the main focus was on fungal skin diseases. Therefore, it is difficult to say whether the cream is effective in onychomycosis, as well as in scalp seborrhea. However, it is really proven that when the cream is used topically, its active ingredients are not detected in the blood, even with prolonged use of the tool. Therefore, this cream is allowed for the treatment of lactating, pregnant women and people with any disease of the kidneys and liver.

Disadvantages. Not a very convenient scheme to use the cream (twice a day), but with its consistency - not thick and greasy, it can be difficult. This is especially true for those being treated on the road or away from home.

Class. In general, the drug is worth getting 10 out of ten points. However, a fairly large-scale clinical study of the issues that concern us here and now - the treatment of nail fungus - still lowers the rating. Therefore, we will stop at 9 points.

From the reviews: "I liked ketoconazole shampoo when treating oily scalp seborrhea. So when I found a fungus on the nail, I immediately bought a cream of the same name. I haven't seen any obvious results on the nail yet - I started the treatment only a week ago, but the skin around the nail is healthier. began to appear. "

Terfinafine-based drugs

The active ingredient - terbinafine - inhibits the growth and activity of various types of fungi, including those that cause nail damage. With proper use of the drug in accordance with the instructions, the concentration of terbinafine in the nail is formed, which prevents long-term re-infection.

Advantages. The convenience of the drug is the ability to choose a dosage form in the form of a spray, solution, gel or cream. All forms of release are equally effective. With proper use of the drug, clear improvement is observed after 2 weeks.

Disadvantages. The quality of treatment provided by this tool is due to the strong effect of terbinafine. However, for this reason, the treatment of nail fungus in nurses, pregnant women and children under 12 years of age is contraindicated.

Class. One of the best remedies for nail fungus is popular all over the world, but requires strict adherence to the "rules of the game". 10 points out of 10 points are worth it.

From the reviews: "I think the price of the drug is very high, although it is really convenient to use it as a spray. The fungus passed along with the growth of the nail, I used the solution for about a month.

The best varnishes for nail fungus

Varnishes for the treatment of fungal nails use different active ingredients, and the cost of such preparations varies widely.

Advantages. Each of the active ingredients - amorolfine, cyclopiroxolamine, etc. - are powerful antifungal agents that inhibit the growth and activity of fungi. The ease of use of varnishes leaves no doubt - before the first (or each) use of the product periodic or one-time treatment of the affected nail, and then only follow the instructions: "paint" the nail once or twice a day or even once a week.

Disadvantages. Unfortunately, with all the effectiveness of antifungal agents that make up the varnish, it is ineffective in deep fungal infections, as well as in the localization of the fungus under the nail plate. This disadvantage is compensated to some extent by the ability of the nail to accumulate drugs, which spread deeper over time. However, there is no guarantee that the fungus will not appear "out of nowhere" for several months after the end of treatment. How is it known: from the places where the active ingredients of the nail cannot penetrate.

Class. Not being able to predict the effectiveness of the treatment immediately deprives even the best varnishes for the treatment of nail fungus from several rating points. Visitors to public pools, saunas and gyms will be interested to know the "double" rating of varnishes: we give them 7 out of 10 points for treatment and 10 out of 10 points for the prevention of nail fungus.

Tea tree oil is the best home remedy for nail fungus

Tea tree oil contains terpenes, which are the basis for the antiseptic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects of the drug. Viridofloren, the most powerful antimicrobial substance, has so far been found only in tea tree oil, which makes it truly unique.

Advantages. Given that the oil is 100% natural, it can be indicated for the treatment of fungal diseases of the skin of the nails and feet, even in pregnant women, lactating women and children. It has a clear antimycotic effect, inhibiting the growth of fungi, and due to the antimicrobial effect does not allow secondary infection of areas weakened by the vital activity of pathogenic microorganisms.

Disadvantages. The strong smell, which some describe as pleasant and fresh, while others consider it a bit "medical". Tea tree oil has a wide range of effects, but some fungal species are resistant to viridoflora, which makes it unsuitable for the treatment of a number of fungal infections. Also, the oil is not recommended for people with individual intolerance to the components of this product.

Class. The almost complete absence of contraindications, effectiveness, complex actions - all this allows you to call tea tree oil the best folk remedy for nail fungus and give it a score of 10 out of ten.

From the reviews: "During pregnancy, I had to treat recurrent fungus on my feet. I was afraid to use synthetic drugs, I preferred tea tree oil. I can say that I have never had a better remedy for nail fungus on my hands: " root "nails began to grow evenly and pink. Now I constantly disinfect street and indoor shoes from the inside with this oil - I have forgotten about mushrooms for 7 years.

What you need to know when treating nail fungus?

Using the following "tricks" can significantly increase the effectiveness of tools for nail fungus:

Before applying the product, wash your feet thoroughly with soap in moderately warm water (it is better to use children's or ordinary laundry), then change the water to warm and steam the affected nail for at least 5-7 minutes. Such a procedure will "open" the nail cells, which will allow the varnish or cream to penetrate deeper into its tissues. Just keep in mind that hot foot baths are contraindicated for varicose veins, hypotension, high body temperature. Make sure the enlarged nail is cut in time. In order for the drug to enter the soft tissues of the nail bed freely, the protruding, "free" part of the nail plate must be removed as it grows back. Treat not only the nail, but also the areas of healthy tissue surrounding it.

Attention! There are contraindications, you should consult a specialist

Currently, the pharmacy network offers a wide range of modern products for the treatment of nail fungus - tablets, creams, gels, varnishes. At the same time, humanity has gained great experience in combating this disease with natural, natural medicines. Let's look at the most effective of them.

Garlic and onions

onion and garlic for nail fungus

To treat nail fungus at home with garlic, you only need a few cloves of this plant. You can remove mycosis of the nail plate with gruel or garlic juice. First you need to steam your nails well to soften them. Garlic is crushed and gruel is applied to the dry surface of the nail plate. A bandage or fingertips are placed on top. The product is released overnight, washed in the morning with soapy water. The procedure is performed every day until the fungus is completely cured.

Treatment with garlic juice is also carried out after a foot bath. The juice is rubbed on the nails and left to dry. How to quickly treat onychomycosis with garlic? Traditional doctors say that the fight against the disease can take up to two months.

What is the easiest way to get rid of fungal infections of the nails? Phytotherapists claim that with onions, even at home, this disease can be treated very simply and quickly. Grate the onion and squeeze the juice. Affected areas should be treated with juice and left to dry nails. No need to wash!

When treating onions, onion peel can be helpful. Numerous recipes allow you to prepare onion oil or tincture to lubricate the nails. To get onion oil, you need to do the following:

Chop the crust with two tablespoons. Pour the peels with vegetable oil (three tablespoons). Leave for three weeks. Shake the container periodically.

This tool is applied to the nails three times a day.

To make onion tincture yourself at home, you need to chop 4 tablespoons onion peel. Add a glass of vodka to it. Insist for two weeks in a cool place without access to light.

Lubricate your nails with this medicine 4 times a day until the symptoms disappear completely.

Use of copper sulfate

Copper sulfate is a crystal that contains sulfur, copper and oxygen. Traditional healers have been using this tool for two hundred years to fight nail fungus.

It is important! Vitriol should be used with extreme caution for medicinal purposes, as the drug can be dangerous to health.

The substance can penetrate the skin, so it can be applied in pure form only on the nail plate.

Copper sulfate is very dangerous when taken orally or by inhalation. Prolonged skin contact can cause severe allergic reactions. In case of contact with eyes - conjunctivitis.

Copper sulfate is used to make foot baths. The disease should be treated according to this scheme: dissolve a teaspoon of vitriol in a liter of water at room temperature. It is better not to use metal containers! The solution is added to a basin of water at the rate of one tablespoon of the product for 1. 5 liters of liquid. Reception time - 10 - 25 minutes. Copper sulfate can cause skin tingling. With severe anxiety, you need to stop the procedure and wash your feet. Wash your feet with warm water. Apply antifungal ointment on nails.

Traditional medicine claims that copper sulfate is an effective tool to treat fungal diseases at home. But do not forget to take precautions! Vitriol is not recommended for the treatment of children and pregnant women, as well as for breastfeeding.

How to treat with salt and soda

Salt is quite a popular and effective tool in the fight against onychomycosis. You can use it in its pure form, lubricate the nails or prepare a therapeutic solution for a foot bath.

Salt has a negative effect on fungi, dries them and prevents their spread.

At home, you can treat the symptoms of the disease with both common table salt and sea salt. The easiest way to use salt to fight nail fungus is to take salt baths regularly. For the procedure, you need to add one tablespoon of salt per liter of liquid to the water. It is better to add a little potassium permanganate. Reception time - 15 - 20 minutes. A fungal disease can be treated within a week, but the procedures should be continued for at least 10 days. It should be noted that salt is effective in the early stages of the lesion. In more advanced cases, this method should be supplemented with antifungal ointments.

salt and soda for the treatment of nail fungus

Folk methods of preparing saline solutions are very diverse. According to one of them, you will need salt and vinegar to prepare the bath. Dissolve 100 grams of sea or common salt in 4 liters of water. Add 4 tablespoons of vinegar to the mixture. The duration of the procedure is from 10 to 20 minutes. Cut the empty part of the nail plate.

It is necessary to treat until the fungus is completely gone.

An effective tool in the fight against onychomycosis is sea salt. Need to prepare a concentrated solution - a tablespoon of sea salt in 200 ml of water. A cotton swab is moistened with this solution and applied to the affected nails for 3-5 minutes. Each plate requires a separate applicator. After the procedure, the feet are washed with water and soda. Even if the symptoms disappear, you should continue to treat the nails for 10 days.

In advanced cases, salt alone will not eliminate the fungus. To prepare the bath, add essential oil (per liter of water): sea salt - 1, 5 tablespoons; tea tree oil - 1 teaspoon; Instead of butter you can use freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 teaspoon) or iodine (0, 25 ml).

Onychomycosis should be treated according to the following scheme: dissolve the salt in warm water, following the recommended ratios. Add essential oil or other ingredient of your choice. Baths are taken for 15-20 minutes every day. The course is 10 days, then you have to take a break for a few days.

Salt treatment at home can be completed with garlic. To prepare the product, you need to do the following: Prepare a saline solution - a tablespoon of salt for a glass of liquid. Add chopped garlic to hot salted water. Cool the mixture and strain it. Add 4 tablespoons salt.

Moisten a cotton swab with garlic juice and carefully treat painful nails. Such treatment with salt is carried out in the morning and evening for at least 10 days.

Salt is also used in the treatment of household and other footwear. To kill the fungus and its spores, the insides of the stuffing and shoes are rubbed with a saturated saline solution.

Maple resin

Fungal nail disease at home can be treated with tar. Maple resin is a dark green oily substance derived from wood. Treatment with this drug is effective in the early stages of onychomycosis, and the advanced form will require the use of additional antifungal drugs.

Birch tar can be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The recipes for using this remedy are different, but most of them recommend starting the field treatment by steaming the feet. Baths with laundry soap will have the best effect. The sequence of the procedure is as follows:

Dissolve coarsely ground laundry soap in a bowl of warm water. Take a bath for 15 minutes. Cut as much as possible from areas affected by the fungus. Wipe your feet dry. Apply tar to nails, toes and feet.

The procedures are repeated every day. Treatment is continued until the symptoms completely disappear.

Onychomycosis is effectively treated at home by combining tar soap and soda. The method is as follows: rub the soap with a coarse grater. Lightly dilute it with water to make a thick slime. Add two tablespoons of baking soda to the mixture and mix. Apply this ointment to the nail plates daily.

At home, this tool helps to get rid of nail fungus for a week. The initiated form will take two or more weeks.

Folk recipes for ointments that help fight onychomycosis often contain maple tar. Here's the simplest: Prepare an oil base - a neutral cream or visceral oil. Add maple resin to the base. Initially, the ratio of tar and cream should be 5 and 95%. Then the volume of tar is adjusted to 20%.

The ointment is applied to the nail plates every evening.

Fungal nail disease at home can be treated with an ointment of the following components: maple tar - 3 tsp; oil base - 10 teaspoons; sulfur powder - 2 tsp.

All ingredients are heated and mixed thoroughly. The field is such an ointment is applied to the nails and fixed with plaster.

Tardan is used to make puree at home. To do this, you will need the following components: maple tar - 50 ml; alcohol - 70 ml; glycerin - 50 ml.

All components should be mixed in a bowl, preferably with dark walls. The solution is stored without access to light. This tool is applied to the nails several times a day.

Maple resin can be used to clean shoes.

Use of urea

What folk remedies can eliminate fungal nail disease as soon as possible? Urea is a chemical that can remove water from any body tissue. And the fungus can not grow without moisture, so it eventually dies. The most effective pharmacy antifungal ointments contain urea. But at home, you can prepare medicine based on it.

Urea is added to thick cream. The resulting mass is applied to the nails and left for a day. The product is then washed and the affected part of the nail plate is removed. After that, you need to apply an iodine solution to the nails for 5 days. The initial form is treated in about a week, and the advanced stage requires a repeat of the procedure.

Simple first aid kit: potassium permanganate and peroxide

Which medication is the easiest to eliminate mycosis of nails? Peroxide treatment of fungal nail infections at home is effective. To make a foot bath, you need to prepare an aqueous solution of peroxide - add 8 tablespoons of peroxide to three liters of warm water. The procedure lasts no more than 5 minutes. Then a mixture of peroxide and soda is applied to the nails.

Potassium permanganate is suitable for making a steam bath at home. Potassium permanganate powder is added to the water. The procedure takes at least 10 minutes. For two liters of water you need to add 2 - 3 pinches of potassium permanganate. It is better not to increase the dose so that the potassium permanganate solution does not burn the skin. After the bath, cut the affected nails and apply an ointment against nail fungus.

Herbal treatment

celandine from fungus on toenails

Some herbs also have strong antifungal properties. Golden mustache onychomycosis can be effectively treated even at home. The application of the juice of this herb helps to soften the nail and make it easier for the drug to pass through the plate. The golden mustache juice is crushed until visible. The resulting solution is applied to the nails and a compress is made of polyethylene and bandage. In the morning, the compress is removed and the affected areas are cut. The initial form of the disease is treated in about a week.

Herbal infusions at home help in the fight against nail fungus. Often their recipes are based on celandine:

Chop meadowsweet (1 tablespoon) and celandine (2 tablespoons). Pour boiling water over the herbs. Insist half an hour and strain.

Cotton applicators are moistened with an infusion and applied to steamed nails. Treatment at home should be continued for at least 14 days.

You can take a bath with celandine to quickly treat mycosis of the nails. To do this, you need to prepare an infusion of dried herbs:

Pour boiling water over celandine in the following proportions: 100 grams of vegetable raw material per liter of water. Keep under the lid for 20 minutes. Strain.

An infusion of celandine herbs is added to the water in equal parts. The procedure lasts up to 25 minutes.

An unusual ointment

Prescriptions for home treatment for onychomycosis are sometimes unusual. Traditional doctors claim that eggs can cure the disease in a week. The ointment is prepared as follows:

Wash raw chicken eggs and place in a half-liter jar. Pour 70% vinegar essence in a bowl to cover with egg liquid. Put the jar in the refrigerator and keep it there until the crust is dissolved. Mix the solution with 200 grams of butter or other oil.

The ointment is applied to the nails and put on socks.