Green nail fungus is a result of fungal nail infection, characterized by greenish-black discoloration of the nail bed. The infected nail may emit foul smells or can be seen as brittle or thickened over time.
No one wants to have fungal nails. Be it with or without chappal, beautiful feet can have a great impact on one’s confidence. So if you have nail fungus, don’t waste your time with unscientific remedies of no use, instead get your hands on these research-backed remedies and treatments. Let’s get on with it, shall we?
Reasons Behind Green Nail Fungus: Does It Go Away?
Green nail fungi are mostly caused by a group of fungi called dermatophytes, which thrive in warm, moisture-containing environments. Finger nails along with toe nails are susceptible to fungal infections.
Its characteristics include discoloration and thickening of the nail and crumbling edges, which are mostly found in toenails. It is nowhere pleasant to live with nail fungus or hide it and hope it will go away on its own.
Let me take you through some of the methods or remedies that might be quite helpful to you.
Home Remedies To Treat Green Nail Fungus
If you notice any color change or something unusual with your nails, chances are you might have contracted green nail syndrome. How to get rid of green nail fungus? Although it’s advised to get medical help in such situations, sometimes, you can get rid of them with simple home remedies. These are some of the easily available home remedies to treat nail fungus.
1. Antifungal essential oil
Mix 2 to 3 drops of antifungal essential oil along with 10 drops of any carrier oils, preferably coconut or olive oil. Now, apply 1 drop of this solution on the affected area for around 10 minutes. For maximum input, you can also gently scrub or brush the oil into your nails.
2. Baking soda
Although only limited research is available, baking soda seems to slow down the growth of fungus. Dilute baking soda with water accordingly. Apply the solution to your nails for roughly 10 minutes. Afterward, rinse it off and dry your nails.
3. Use breathable socks
Try to maintain dry feet as much as possible, which can prevent further growth of fungus. Always wear socks that can absorb moisture, and wear comfortable footwear.
4. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil being a natural antiseptic can be applied to the affected area twice or thrice a day accordingly. It is advised to use carrier oil along with tea tree oil due to its highly concentrated nature.
5. Antifungal creams
Antifungal creams available locally can be used to treat fungal nail infections. It is possible that the infections can clear up while using the cream, and return once stopped. If that’s the case, it will be necessary to attempt other treatment approaches.
6. Snakeroot extract
The natural antifungal snakeroot has shown effects in resolving fungal nail infections, as effective as otc antifungal creams.
7. Vinegar
Acetic acid in vinegar has shown antiseptic traits ideal for purging fungi overtaking the nails. Also applying vinegar helps with drying out the affected area, prohibiting further fungal growth.
8. Vicks VapoRub
The topical application of mentholated ointment is an efficient treatment method for fungal nail infection.
Prescription medicines are also available, such as terbinafine tablets. These tablets seem efficient and can be taken every day or as advised. Another clinical approach to treating nail fungus is surgical removal. Opt for surgical removal only if your nail has been showing zero response toward other treatment methods.
Preventive Measures To Be Taken
How to get rid of green nail fungus? Your best bet is to focus on averting the acquisition of a nail fungus initially. Here are some of the necessary steps to be taken to keep your nails fungus-free.
- Always keep your hands and feet dry. Moisture can attract fungus.
- Try to wear breathable socks along with comfortable footwear.
- Dont walk barefoot outdoors, try to wear chappal as much as possible
- Keep your nails clean and dry with regular trimming
- Regularly use anti-fungal products
Do I Need To Visit the Doctor? If you feel like the results of the above remedies are unsatisfactory, it is ideal to book an appointment with a doctor or podiatrist. Additionally, visit your doctor, if you have diabetes or any history of skin infections or if the condition worsens even after performing home remedies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, how to get rid of green nail fungus? green nail syndrome can be treated effectively with simple at-home remedies. Also, prescription medicines and surgical removal options are available for the same. Mild cases can be treated with natural antifungal approaches whereas moderate to severe cases might need a doctor’s appointment.
Pay attention to any changes in your nails, be it their color, shape, or anything else. The article goes through some of the easily doable remedies for nail fungal infection which might be handy and helpful from the comfort of your home.
As someone said, prevention is better than cure, hence, maintain a clean and hygienic lifestyle along with the above tips to keep fungus and other irritants away. So, what are you waiting for?
