Nail fungus is a common malady that affects a large portion of the population. It has several causes including those that can occur from the natural aging process, diabetes, poor blood circulation, a weakened immune system, and subjecting bare feet to public shower or swimming pool areas. It can also be hereditary. A variety of all-natural treatments are available to assist in clearing up the nail infection. It is not an easy task as the infection often hides deep in the nail bed.
VINEGAR
Vinegar is one of those natural home remedies that have been around since ancient times. Almost everyone has a “vinegar story” related to a specific use that the properties of the substance provides. Nail fungus cures can be one of them. The history and uses of vinegar have been passed down from generation to generation through family members.
A variety of vinegar types is available and, to act as a cure, it doesn’t really matter which type you choose. Apple cider vinegar, however, is perhaps chosen the most frequently due to its “extra” acidic nature. Vinegar is quite possibly the least expensive option to try as a cure for nail fungus. It can usually be found easily in most kitchen cabinets.
Recommendations for vinegar use suggest mixing 50 percent water with 50 percent vinegar in a small tub or basin for fungus cures. Soak the affected nail areas in the mixture for about 30 minutes three times a day. Success stories have been told of these foot baths spread throughout the day, with one in the morning, one at mid-day, and the other in the evening before you retire to bed. Some people also alternate the foot baths using hot and cold water every other time. Other recommendations include using one-third part vinegar to two-thirds parts warm water as a good soaking foot bath.
Vinegar has an acidic quality courtesy of the oxidation of ethanol that is a process of fermentation. The oxidation can take place in fruit juice, wine, cider, beer, or other alcoholic liquids. The acidity aids in the itching that often accompanies nail fungus. It also helps normalize the pH balance in the body that is required to fight the microorganisms that cause nail fungus. This can be a good cure because the bacteria present in the infection will not like an acidic environment.
Apple cider vinegar can be quite helpful in alleviating inflammation and pain caused by the nail fungus infection. When hydrogen peroxide is added to the mix, it also helps kill the harmful bacteria. Hydrogen peroxide is strong, so use this combination sparingly until you know how your skin will react to it.
Another optional use for nail fungus cures from the vinegar is to apply two drops directly onto the affected nail area twice daily. Some individuals have reported more success with this method than the soaking; it just depends on each person’s body and how quickly the infection reacts to subside. When using the two-drop method of delivering vinegar directly to the nail, however, you must ensure you give the drops adequate time to soak in before resuming normal activities.
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