Vinegar has been used with some success to treat and cure Toenail Fungus. Toenail infection commonly occurs due to continuous exposure of nail to warm or moist environment, such as sweaty shoes or shower floors. It may be treated by home remedies, natural remedies or allopathic treatment. But easily available vinegar is considered as best solution for healing this infection.
Types of vinegar generally that used include:
Apple cider vinegar, Wine vinegar, rice vinegar, raisin vinegar, beer vinegar, honey vinegar, coconut vinegar, malt vinegar. Apple cider vinegar known as ACV is considered as best to reduce the inflammation in the infected area. It also gives good astringent effect and helps in early repair.
Mode of action of vinegar:
Fungal infection to toenail changes the pH value of skin to alkaline side. The infection spreads to the surrounding tissues and cuticle. This causes irritation which further result in itching and pain.
Vinegar is acidic in nature . On application, it creates acidic environment in that area. The microorganisms are unable to survive in that area. Therefore further growth and multiplication of fungi is prevented.
Method of application:
50% water and 50% vinegar are mixed together to make a solution. This solution is used for foot bath. Foot bath should be taken 3 times daily (morning, noon and evening) for 30 minutes. Alternate hot bath and cold bath are advised for early recovery.
Apple cider vinegar is combined with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2).
For strong infection directly two drops of vinegar are applied. Care should be taken that it should remain on affected area for longer time.
Duration of treatment:
Similar to other fungal infection treatments, vinegar solutions require longer time to show the results. It may take several months to years. As the infection gets eliminated, new and soft nail emerges. The Vinegar treatment should be continued until the infection gets eliminated completely. There are other treatments available as well like ZetaClear nail fungus treatment.
Benefits of vinegar as treatment option:
1) It is easily available as it is used in kitchen.
2) It does not cause any harmful side effects.
3) It is cheap.
4) It is clear and colorless liquid.
5) It is non-greasy.
If infection does seem to get cured, then proper diagnosis and treatment from a medical doctor is necessary.
