According to research, every third person is faced with fungal nail diseases. Also, nail fungus a few decades ago was quite rare.
According to the researchers, the disease gained such prevalence due to the benefits of civilization - the high availability of swimming pools, public saunas, gyms, which was created to improve human health. But building muscle mass or getting rid of excess weight, a person rarely pays attention to the threat next to him - pathogenic fungi that are only waiting to become one with the new "master".
The consequences (and not only of an aesthetic nature) are not long in coming. Darkened, loose and exfoliated nails, unpleasant smell from 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 promote secondary infection - the penetration of pathogenic bacteria into the tissues and blood, and also cause the infection of others. Members of the patient's family are at risk: people whose skin comes into contact with surfaces on which microscopic particles of infected skin remain. It is for this reason that acquiring an effective home remedy for nail fungus is a great idea, especially if you go to the gym, swimming pools and other public places where the probability of infection with a fungus is high.
So what are the best nail fungus remedies offered by modern pharmaceutical industry and traditional medicine?
The best remedies for nail fungus
Naftifine-based solution
The active substance of the drug, naftifine, has a high "cumulative" effect. This means that when using the drug, naftifine accumulates in the tissues of the nail plate and gradually reaches its maximum concentration, which is detrimental to fungi. The excipients that make up the drug facilitate the penetration of naftifine into the nail tubules, through which, in fact, the fungus spreads.
Advantages. In addition to antifungal action, the drug prevents secondary infection of affected tissues, relieves itching, and in a short time relieves inflammatory processes provoked by fungal infection.
Disadvantages. Clinical studies of the drug, which would confirm or refute its innocuousness, have not yet been carried out. 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.
Grade. The complex effect of the drug is its only, albeit significant, advantage, which gave the drug 9 points out of ten in the ranking of the best remedies for nail fungus.
From reviews: "I treated the fungus on my nails and on the skin between my toes. Frankly, you can survive the fungus, but you can't survive the itching it causes. This medicine literally eliminated the itching in a day, even though the actual fungus was treated according to the instructions, until the nail grew completely.
Ketoconazole-based drugs
The active substance, ketoconazole, has a strong antifungal effect and is effective against most yeast-like fungi, molds, and others. Getting into the tissues of the nail affected by the fungus, ketoconazole disrupts the metabolism of these organisms and destroys their cell membrane, which becomes a stopping factor for the formation of fungal colonies and their subsequent reproduction.
Advantages. High efficiency is confirmed by clinical studies, but the percentage of healing of nail lesions was taken into account last - the main attention was paid to fungal skin diseases. For this reason, it is difficult to say whether the cream is as effective for onychomycosis as it is for seborrhea of the scalp. But what is really proven is that when the cream is used locally, its active ingredients are not detected in the blood even with prolonged use of the remedy. Therefore, for the treatment of lactating women, pregnant women, and people with diseases of the kidneys and liver, this cream is allowed.
Disadvantages. It is not a very convenient scheme to use the cream (twice a day), in combination with its consistency, not thick and oily, it can be difficult. This is especially true for those receiving treatment on the go or outside the home.
Grade. In general, the drug deserves 10 points out of ten. But insufficiently large-scale clinical studies on topics that interest us here and now - the treatment of nail fungus - still lower their rating. Therefore, we will stop at 9 points.
From reviews: "I liked the ketoconazole shampoo when I was treating seborrhea from oily scalp. So when I discovered the fungus on the nail, I immediately bought the cream of the same name. I haven't noticed any obvious results on the nail yet. " : I started the treatment only a week ago, but the skin around the nail started to look healthier. "
Terfinafine-based drugs
The active substance, terbinafine, inhibits the growth and activity of various types of fungi, including those that damage nails. With the correct use of the drug according to the instructions, a concentration of terbinafine is created in the nail, which prevents re-infection for a long time.
Advantages. The convenience of the drug lies in the possibility of choosing a dosage form in the form of an aerosol, solution, gel or cream. All forms of release are equally effective. With proper use of the drug, obvious improvements are observed after 2 weeks.
Disadvantages. The quality treatment provided by this remedy is due to the powerful action of terbinafine. But it is precisely for this reason that the treatment of nail fungus is contraindicated in infants, pregnant women and in children under 12 years of age.
Grade. One of the best remedies for nail fungus, popular all over the world, but requires strict adherence to the "rules of the game". It deserves 10 points out of 10.
From the reviews: "I think the price of the drug is too high, although it is very convenient to use it in the form of 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 various active ingredients, and the cost of such preparations varies widely.
Advantages. Each of the active ingredients (amorolfine, ciclopiroxolamine, etc. ) are strong antifungal agents that inhibit the growth and activity of fungi. The convenience of using varnishes leaves no doubt: regular or one-time treatment of the affected nail before the first (or each) use of the product, and then it remains only to follow the instructions: "tint" the nail once or twice a day or even once. once a week.
Disadvantages. Unfortunately, with all the effectiveness of the antifungal substances that make up the varnishes, they are ineffective in deep fungal infections, as well as in the localization of the fungus under the nail plate. This disadvantage is offset to some extent by the nail's ability to accumulate medicinal substances, which spread deeper over time. But even taking this into account, there is no guarantee that a few months after completing the treatment, the fungus will not appear "out of the blue. "It is known from where: from the areas of the nail into which the active substances could not penetrate.
Grade. The inability to predict the effectiveness of treatment immediately deprives even the best nail fungus treatment varnishes of several rating points. Those who visit public swimming pools, saunas and gyms will be interested to know the "dual" rating of varnishes: we give them 7 points out of 10 for treatment, and 10 out of 10 for preventing nail fungus.
Tea tree oil is the best home remedy for nail fungus.
The composition of tea tree oil includes terpenes, which serve as the basis for the antiseptic, antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects of the remedy. And viridofloren, the most powerful antimicrobial substance, has only been found in tea tree oil to date, making it truly unique.
Advantages. Given the 100% natural origin of the oil, it may be indicated for the treatment of fungal diseases of the nails and skin of the feet, even in pregnant women, infants and children. It has a pronounced antifungal 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. A strong scent that some describe as pleasant and fresh, while others find it somewhat "medical". The spectrum of action of tea tree oil is wide, but some types of fungi are resistant to viridofloren, which makes this remedy useless in 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.
Grade. The almost complete absence of contraindications, effectiveness, complex action - all this allows us to call tea tree oil the best folk remedy for nail fungus and give it 10 points out of ten.
From reviews: "I had to treat recurring leg fungus during pregnancy. I was afraid to use synthetic preparations, preferring tea tree oil. I can say that I have never had a better remedy for my toenail fungus. " hands - from the "root" the nail began to grow even and pink. Now I constantly disinfect street and indoor shoes with this oil from the inside - I already forgot about the fungus for 7 years.
What do you need to know when treating nail fungus?
The effectiveness of remedies for nail fungus can be significantly increased if you use the following "tricks":
Before applying the product, wash your feet thoroughly with moderately warm soapy water (baby or normal clothes are best), then switch the water to hot 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 their tissues. Just do not forget that hot foot baths are contraindicated for varicose veins, hypotension and elevated body temperature. Make sure that the overgrown nail is cut in a timely manner. The "free" part that protrudes from the nail plate must be removed as it grows back so that the drug freely accesses the soft tissues of the nail bed. Treat not only the nail, but also the areas of healthy tissue that surround it.
Attention! There are contraindications, it is necessary to consult a specialist.
Today, the pharmacy network presents a wide range of modern products intended for the treatment of nail fungus: tablets, creams, gels, varnishes. At the same time, mankind has accumulated vast experience in fighting this disease with natural and natural medicines. Let's consider the most effective of them.
garlic and onion
To treat nail fungus with garlic at home, you only need a few cloves of this plant. You can remove mycosis from the nail plate with gruel or garlic juice. First you must vaporize your nails well so that they soften. Garlic is crushed and porridge is applied to the dry surface of the nail plate. A bandage is applied to the top or the fingertips are placed. The product is left overnight, washed off with soapy water in the morning. The procedure is carried out every other day until the fungus is completely cured.
Garlic juice treatment is also done after a foot bath. The juice is rubbed into the nails and allowed to dry. How to quickly cure onychomycosis with garlic? Traditional healers say that fighting the disease can take up to two months.
What is the easiest way to get rid of fungal nail infection? Phytotherapists claim that with onions, even at home, this disease can be cured quite simply and quickly. Grate the onion and squeeze the juice. It is necessary to treat the affected areas with juice and allow the nails to dry. No need to rinse!
When dealing with onions, onion skins 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:
Grind two tablespoons of husk. Pour the shell with vegetable oil (three tablespoons). Leave for three weeks. Shake the container periodically.
This remedy is applied to the nails three times a day.
To make onion tincture yourself at home, you need to chop 4 tablespoons of onion husk. Add a glass of vodka. Insist for two weeks in a cool place without access to light.
Lubricate the nails with this medicine 4 times a day until the symptoms completely disappear.
The use of copper sulfate.
Copper sulfate is a crystal that contains sulfur, copper and oxygen. Traditional healers have been using this remedy in the fight against nail fungus for two hundred years.
Important! It is necessary to use vitriol for medicinal purposes very carefully, since the drug can be dangerous to health.
The substance can penetrate the skin, so in its pure form it can only be applied to the nail plate.
Copper sulfate is very dangerous if taken orally or inhaled. Prolonged skin contact may cause severe allergic reactions. In case of contact with eyes - conjunctivitis.
Copper sulfate is used to prepare a foot bath. It is necessary to treat the disease according to this scheme: dissolve a teaspoon of vitriol in a liter of water at room temperature. It is better not to use metal utensils! The solution is added to a container of water at the rate of one tablespoon of the product per 1. 5 liters of liquid. Duration of acceptance - 10 - 25 minutes. Copper sulfate can cause tingling of the skin. With strong discomfort, you need to stop the procedure and wash your feet. Wash your feet with warm water. Apply antifungal ointment to the nails.
Traditional medicine claims that copper sulfate is an effective remedy that can cure a fungal disease at home. But don't forget to take precautions! The use of vitriol for the treatment of children and pregnant women, as well as for lactation, is not recommended.
How to be treated with salt and soda.
Salt is quite a popular and effective remedy in the fight against onychomycosis. You can use it in its pure state, prepare a therapeutic solution to lubricate the nails or to take a foot bath.
Salt has a negative effect on the fungus, it dries it out and prevents its spread.
At home, you can treat the symptoms of the disease with ordinary table salt and sea salt. The easiest way to use salt in the fight against nail fungus is to take regular salt baths. For the procedure, you need to add salt to the water at the rate of one tablespoon of salt per liter of liquid. It is better to add a little potassium permanganate. Duration of acceptance - 15 - 20 minutes. A fungal disease can be cured within a week, but the procedures must be continued for at least 10 days. It is worth noting that salt is effective at the initial stage of injury. In more advanced cases, this method must be supplemented with antifungal ointments.
Folk methods for preparing salt solutions are very diverse. According to one of them, salt and vinegar will be needed to prepare the bath. Dissolve 100 grams of sea or common salt in 4 liters of water. Add 4 tablespoons of vinegar to the solution. The duration of the procedure is from 10 to 20 minutes. Cut off the loose part of the nail plate.
It is necessary to treat the fungus until it completely disappears.
An effective remedy in the fight against onychomycosis is sea salt. It is necessary to prepare a concentrated solution: a tablespoon of sea salt per 200 ml of water. A cotton swab is abundantly 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 rinsed with water and soda. Even if the symptoms have disappeared, you should continue to treat the nails for 10 days.
In advanced cases, salt alone will not be able to kill the fungus. To prepare the bath, it is supplemented with essential oil (per liter of water): sea salt - 1, 5 tablespoons; tea tree oil - 1 teaspoon; instead of oil, you can use freshly squeezed lemon juice (1 teaspoon) or iodine (0. 25 ml).
It is necessary to treat onychomycosis according to the following scheme: dissolve the salt in hot water, observing the proposed proportions. Add essential oil or other ingredient of your choice. Baths are taken daily for 15 - 20 minutes. The course is 10 days, then you need to take a break for a couple of days.
At home, salt treatment can be supplemented with garlic. To prepare the product, you need to do the following: prepare a salt solution - one tablespoon of salt per glass of liquid. Add a clove of minced garlic to hot salted water. Let the mixture cool down and strain. Add 4 tablespoons of salt.
Moisten a cotton swab with garlic water and gently treat sore nails. Such salt treatment is carried out in the morning and in the evening for at least 10 days.
The salt is also used to treat household and other footwear. The insoles and insides of shoes are rubbed with a saturated salt solution to kill the fungus and its spores.
birch tar
At home, fungal nail disease can be treated with tar. Birch tar is a dark green, oily substance obtained from wood. Treatment with this remedy is effective at the initial stage of onychomycosis, and the advanced form will require the use of additional antifungal drugs.
Birch tar can be used during pregnancy and lactation. The recipes for using this remedy are different, but most recommend starting the tar treatment with steamed legs. Baths with laundry soap will have the best effect. The sequence of the procedure is as follows:
In a bowl of hot water, dissolve the grated laundry soap on a coarse grater. Take a bath for 15 minutes. Cut as much as you can from the areas affected by the fungus. Dry your feet. Apply tar to fingernails, toes, and feet.
The procedures are repeated daily. The treatment is continued until the symptoms are completely eliminated.
At home, onychomycosis is effectively treated by combining tar soap and soda. The method is as follows: grate the soap on a coarse grater. Dilute slightly with water to make a thick suspension. Add two tablespoons of baking soda to the mixture and stir. Rub this ointment into the nail plates daily.
At home, this remedy helps eliminate nail fungus in a week. The released form will require two or more weeks.
Popular recipes for ointments that help fight onychomycosis often contain birch tar. Here is the simplest of them: prepare a fat base - a neutral cream or visceral fat. Add birch tar to the base. Initially, the ratio of tar and cream should be between 5 and 95%. Then the tar volume is adjusted to 20%.
The ointment is rubbed into the nail plates every night.
At home, fungal nail disease can be treated with an ointment of the following components: birch tar - 3 tsp; fat base - 10 teaspoons; sulfur powder - 2 tsp.
All ingredients are heated and mixed well. Such an ointment with tar is applied to the nails and fixed with a plaster.
Tar is used to mash at home. To do this, you will need the following components: birch tar - 50 ml; alcohol - 70 ml; glycerin - 50 ml.
All components must be mixed, preferably in a container with dark walls. The solution is stored without access to light. This remedy is applied several times a day on the nails.
Birch tar can be used to disinfect shoes.
use of urea
What folk remedy can eliminate a fungal nail disease as quickly as possible? Urea is a chemical preparation capable of removing water from any tissue in the body. And the fungus cannot develop without moisture, so it eventually dies. The most effective pharmacy antifungal ointments contain urea in their composition. But at home, you can prepare a drug based on it.
Urea is added to thick fat cream. The resulting mass is applied to the nails and left for a day. Then the product is washed off and the affected part of the nail plate is removed. After that, you need to apply an iodine solution to your nails for 5 days. The initial form is treated in about a week, and the advanced stage will require a repeat procedure.
Simple drugs from the first aid kit: potassium permanganate and peroxide
What drugs are the easiest to eliminate nail mycosis? At home, it is effective to treat fungal nail infections with peroxide. To take a foot bath, you need to prepare an aqueous solution of peroxide: add 8 tablespoons of peroxide to three liters of hot water. The duration of the procedure is not more than 5 minutes. Then a suspension of peroxide and soda is applied to the nails.
At home, potassium permanganate is suitable for preparing a steam bath. Potassium permanganate powder is added to the water. The duration of the procedure is 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
Some herbs also have strong antifungal properties. Golden mustache can effectively treat onychomycosis even at home. The application of the juice of this herb helps soften the nail and makes it easier for the medicine to penetrate the plaque. The golden mustache is crushed until the juice appears. The resulting suspension is applied to the nails and a polyethylene compress and bandage are made. 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.
At home, herbal teas help a lot in the fight against nail fungus. Very often, their recipes contain celandine based on:
Grind meadowsweet (1 tablespoon) and celandine (2 tablespoons). Pour boiling water over herbs. Insist for half an hour and strain.
Cotton applicators are moistened with infusion and applied to steamed nails. Home treatment should be continued for at least 14 days.
To quickly cure nail mycosis, you can take baths with celandine. To do this, it is necessary to prepare an infusion of dried grass:
Pour boiling water over celandine in the following proportions: one liter of water per 100 grams of vegetable raw materials. Keep covered for 20 minutes. Muscle tension.
An infusion of celandine herbs is added to the water in equal parts. The duration of the procedure is up to 25 minutes.
unusual ointment
Recipes for folk remedies for onychomycosis are sometimes unusual. Traditional healers claim that the disease can be cured in a week with an egg. The ointment is prepared in this way:
Wash a raw chicken egg and place it in a pint jar. Pour the 70% vinegar essence into a container so that the egg is covered with liquid. Put the jar in the refrigerator and keep it there until the peel dissolves. Mix the solution with 200 grams of butter or other fat.
The ointment is applied to the nails and put on socks.