Introduction
The fungus thrives in damp environments during monsoons. It can cause infections in various places, even your toenails. Research by the National Library of Medicine shows that about half of all nail problems seen by dermatologists are due to fungal infections. Many people search online for a quick fix for toenail fungus.
A popular home remedy is to soak your feet in vinegar. However, people often wonder whether to use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar for toenail fungus.
What is Toenail Fungus?
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common problem that affects toenails. It is caused by various types of fungi such as dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds. This infection is not benign – it usually starts at the edge or bottom of the nail and then spreads. It can make your toenails thick, discolored, brittle, and sometimes smelly.
You might also like: Preventing Monsoon-Related Skin Infections: A Guide to Healthy Skin
Causes of Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus is often caused by poor hygiene. If you don’t keep your feet clean and dry, wear dirty or sweaty socks, or use dirty shoes, this provides a good place for fungus to grow. But there are other reasons! Let’s take a look:
- Fungi really like warm and wet places, like public pools, gyms, and showers. Walking barefoot in this area can increase the chance of fungal infection.
- If your toenails are injured or damaged, such as cracks or separation from the nail bed, the fungus can enter and cause an infection.
- Certain health problems, such as diabetes, HIV/AIDS, or a weakened immune system, can make it easier for you to get yeast infections.
Signs of Toenail Fungus
How do you know if you have a fungal infection? Well, you will probably start seeing and feeling changes in your toes and feet. Here are the common symptoms:
- Your nails may turn yellow.
- You can get a lot of bullets under your nails.
- Your skin may feel cracked and dry.
- Your nails may be thicker.
- They may split or change shape, such as becoming bent or wrinkled.
- Sometimes, they can smell like cheese.
How to Use ACV to Treat Toenail Fungus
Here’s an easy way to use apple cider for fungal infection on your feet:
- Get some organic apple cider vinegar with “mother” in it, which has all the good stuff
- Fill a tub, sink, or basin with hot water Use two parts water for every one part apple cider Soak your feet in the mixture for 10 to 20 minutes.
- Wash your feet with water afterward, and then apply a good moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated.
Apple Cider Vinegar for Toenail Fungus: Does it Work?
According to functional medicine practitioner Will Cole, apple cider vinegar has been found to have benefits against viruses, yeasts, and fungi, which can help balance your body’s microbiome. Many studies have shown that apple cider vinegar for fungal infection is very beneficial due to its antifungal properties to fight infection, although there is not as much research specifically on athlete’s foot. However, a 2018 study found that vinegar can kill a fungus called C. albicans in a lab setting. It does this by breaking down certain enzymes necessary for fungal cell formation and survival.
You might also like: What Are The Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar?
How to Prevent Toenail Fungus
After treating the infection, you may be wondering how to avoid getting it again. The best way to prevent toenail fungus is to practice good foot hygiene. Remember to wash your feet after exercise, take care of your toenails by trimming them properly, change out of damp shoes and socks, and keep your skin healthy by using natural lotions and creams, another idea is to use ACV for nail fungus to Never see it again.
Conclusion
Fungal foot infections are common, usually not very serious, and can be completely treated. But for those who get them often, they can be annoying. The most important thing is to wash your feet regularly, especially after exercising. Try not to wear damp socks and shoes for too long, and take care of your nails to prevent infection. If you find yourself with an infection and you’ve heard somewhere that ACV is the ideal choice, you’re confused as to how to apply apple cider vinegar for toenail fungus, consider this article to know all the information and how you should use it.
