Your toenails also need extra care in monsoon, these 6 home remedies can be useful:
The rainy season can give rise to many types of infections due to waterlogging. Fungal infection in toenails is one such problem. Some home remedies can be useful for the care of toenails in this season.
There is a possibility of many types of infections during the rainy season. One of them is fungal infection in the nails. The accumulated dirty water of rain and humidity can cause fungal infection in your nails. This especially affects the toenails. Ignoring it means allowing it to grow. So this monsoon, show some love to your toe nails too. Here we are telling you about those home remedies (fungal infection in toe nails) which will help in protecting your toe nails from fungal infection.
Here are 5 effective remedies to get rid of fungal infection
1. Tea tree oil
According to a data published by the National Library of Medicine, the antifungal and antiseptic properties present in tea tree oil help in getting rid of fungal infections. According to many other studies, the properties present in tea tree oil can be effective in treating toe infections. For proper results, apply it regularly on the infected area by applying it on cotton.
2. Garlic
According to a research done on garlic by Pub Med Central, it contains anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties. Cut the garlic cloves and rub them lightly on the infected area. Along with this, mix white vinegar in garlic oil and apply it on the affected area with the help of cotton and leave it for some time. Repeat this process at least twice a day for proper results.
3. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is acidic in nature and prevents the spread of fungal infections. Mix equal amounts of water and apple cider vinegar in a container. Now soak your infected nails in it for 20 minutes, after that take out the feet and dry the nails. Try this regularly and you will see a lot of improvement.
4. Baking Soda
Baking soda absorbs moisture. The properties present in it prevent fungi from spreading instead of killing them. Using it in the early stages of infection will help prevent the problem from spreading. A research published by the National Library of Medicine stated that baking soda inhibits fungal growth.
5. Rose water and aloe vera
Make a paste by mixing rose water and aloe vera. You can apply it regularly on your nails during the rainy season. It keeps your nails healthy. According to a study published by Pub Med Central, antioxidant properties are found in aloe vera, which reduces the effect of nail infections. It keeps your nails shiny and soft.
6. Mouthwash
Mouthwash ingredients like menthol, thymol, and eucalyptus possess both antibacterial and antifungal properties. All these properties can be helpful in fighting fungal infections. To use it, take water in a large container, add mouthwash to it and keep your affected foot immersed in it for some time.
FAQs for Toenail Fungal Infection Remedies
1. What causes toenail fungal infections during the rainy season?
Toenail fungal infections are common during the monsoon season due to humidity, dampness, and waterlogging.
When dirty rainwater accumulates around your feet, it creates a moist environment that allows fungus to thrive. Wearing wet shoes or socks for a long time also increases the risk.
Common causes include:
- Walking barefoot on wet surfaces
- Poor foot hygiene
- Wearing tight, non-breathable footwear
- Prolonged exposure to dirty water
- Weak immunity or diabetes
Maintaining clean, dry feet is the first step to preventing fungal infections.
2. What are the early signs of a toenail fungal infection?
Identifying a fungal infection early helps in faster treatment and prevention of spreading.
Early symptoms include:
- Yellowish or whitish discoloration of the toenail
- Thickened or brittle nail texture
- Pain or discomfort around the toenail
- Foul odor from the infected area
- Swelling or redness near the nail
- Nail separating from the nail bed in severe cases
If you notice these symptoms, start home remedies immediately or consult a dermatologist.
3. Can fungal toenail infections spread to other nails or people?
Yes, toenail fungal infections are highly contagious if not treated properly.
The infection can spread to other toenails, fingernails, or even other people through direct contact or shared items.
How it spreads:
- Sharing nail clippers or towels
- Walking barefoot in public showers or pools
- Wearing sweaty shoes without proper cleaning
- Touching the infected area and then healthy nails
Always keep your nails clean, dry, and avoid sharing personal grooming tools.
4. What are the best home remedies for toenail fungal infections?
There are several natural remedies to help treat toenail fungus at home. Here are six effective options:
- Tea Tree Oil – Natural antifungal properties; apply using cotton twice a day.
- Garlic and White Vinegar – Antimicrobial blend; rub directly or apply as a paste.
- Apple Cider Vinegar Soak – Soak feet for 20 minutes to prevent fungal growth.
- Baking Soda – Absorbs moisture and slows fungal spread.
- Rose Water and Aloe Vera – Antioxidant-rich mixture to heal and soften nails.
- Mouthwash Foot Soak – Contains antifungal agents like menthol and thymol.
Note: Use these remedies consistently for best results and keep the area dry.
5. How does tea tree oil help treat toenail fungus?
Tea tree oil is a powerful natural antifungal and antiseptic.
It helps fight fungal infections by penetrating deep into the nail and eliminating fungal growth.
How to use tea tree oil:
- Clean your nails thoroughly.
- Apply a few drops of tea tree oil to the affected area using a cotton swab.
- Leave it to dry naturally.
- Repeat twice daily for faster results.
According to the National Library of Medicine, tea tree oil has shown positive results in treating various fungal infections.
6. Can garlic cure fungal infections in toenails?
Yes, garlic has strong antifungal and antimicrobial properties that make it effective for treating toenail fungus.
Steps to use garlic for toenail fungus:
- Cut fresh garlic cloves and rub them directly on the infected toenail.
- OR mix garlic oil with white vinegar and apply it using a cotton ball.
- Leave it on for 20–30 minutes and then rinse with warm water.
- Repeat this twice daily for visible improvement.
Tip: Eating raw garlic may also boost immunity and help fight internal fungal growth.
7. How does apple cider vinegar help in toenail fungal infections?
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is acidic in nature, which helps stop the fungus from spreading by creating an unfavorable environment for fungal growth.
Apple cider vinegar soak:
- Mix equal parts ACV and warm water in a bowl.
- Soak your feet for 15–20 minutes daily.
- Dry your feet completely afterward.
Regular use helps reduce fungal growth and strengthens nails.
8. How can baking soda help prevent toenail fungus?
Baking soda does not kill the fungus but absorbs excess moisture, which prevents the fungus from multiplying.
How to use baking soda:
- Mix baking soda with a little water to form a paste.
- Apply the paste to the affected nail.
- Leave it for 15 minutes, then rinse and dry.
- Repeat once daily.
Alternatively, sprinkle dry baking soda in shoes or socks to keep them moisture-free.
9. Why is foot hygiene important during the rainy season?
The rainy season creates damp and humid conditions, which are perfect for fungal growth.
Maintaining proper foot hygiene helps prevent fungal infections and keeps toenails healthy.
Foot care tips for monsoon:
- Wash and dry feet thoroughly after being outdoors.
- Wear breathable footwear like sandals instead of closed shoes.
- Change socks regularly and keep them clean.
- Avoid walking barefoot in wet areas.
- Disinfect shoes weekly using antifungal sprays or sunlight.
10. When should you see a doctor for toenail fungus?
While home remedies are effective in mild cases, you should consult a dermatologist if you notice:
- Severe pain or swelling around the toenail
- Thickened nails that are difficult to trim
- Black, green, or dark brown nail discoloration
- Infection spreading to other nails or skin
- No improvement after 2–3 weeks of home treatment
Delaying treatment may lead to serious complications, including permanent nail damage.
11. Can toenail fungus come back after treatment?
Yes, toenail fungus can recur if preventive steps are not taken.
The fungus may remain dormant and grow back under certain conditions.
Prevention tips after recovery:
- Keep toenails clean and trimmed.
- Wear antifungal powder in shoes regularly.
- Avoid sharing personal grooming tools like nail clippers.
- Maintain a healthy diet to boost immunity.
- Keep feet dry, especially after bathing or sweating.
READ ALSO: Are Your Long Toenails a Health Hazard? 5 Problems You’re Ignoring
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