Will Vinegar Treat Toenail Fungus

Individuals who have dealt with uncomfortable toenail infections for a while may wonder, will vinegar treat toenail fungus? It is just one of several common home remedies that people swear by, but as with so many treatments, results vary from person to person. Read on to find out if this intriguing treatment is for you.

Is vinegar the cure?

They thrive in moist, warm environments and then spread over time, often from one nail to another. A toenail fungus is certainly unpleasant, but it can be treated. The key is to treat it immediately upon the first sign of symptoms. Once the condition spreads, it can prove extremely difficult to treat. Some individuals suffer for years without complete success, due to the condition's tendency to recur over time.

The microscopic fungi responsible for toenail fungus are found, not surprisingly, in damp areas like shower stalls, public gyms and swimming pools. It makes sense, then, that athletes in particular are so susceptible to the condition. So, too, are those who wear tight shoes and tight hosiery, both of which can contribute to a continuously moist, warm environment. Since toenails need to breathe in order to remain healthy, it certainly is no surprise that constricted toes will suffer over time. Individuals with compromised immune systems may also be susceptible to toenail fungus.

If you're dealing with some unpleasant toenail symptoms, then you probably already know you've got something unpleasant going on. Ranging from yellowing and dullness to thickening and crumbling, the signs of toenail fungus are not pretty and can be quite uncomfortable, too. Fortunately, there are many treatment options available.

Individuals are advised to seek treatment for toenail fungus at the first sign of symptoms. Once the condition spreads, it can prove very difficult to treat and may even increase the chances of re-occurrence after treatment. Many individuals seek medical attention and opt for treatments that range from oral antifungal pills (such as Lamisil) and antifungal nail varnishes to topical medications and, in extreme cases, even surgery.

For those who wish to avoid going that route, though, there may be other viable options. As with many other medical conditions, toenail fungus may be possible to cure with a variety of home remedies. Among the more popular "ingredients" used to cure this pesky condition is vinegar. Vinegar is a natural acid that relieves intense itching and repairs pH balance. This, in turn, may kill off the microscopic fungi causing the problem in the first place.

Perhaps you've heard about this interesting treatment and asked yourself, will vinegar treat toenail fungus? Not only does it not require a trip to the doctor, it's also extremely simple to concoct. There are several different vinegar recipes that might be effective, and each only requires simple products that you probably already have in your kitchen pantry.

It almost sounds pampering, and that's certainly one way of looking at the bright side! Create an indulgent foot bath using one part warm water and one part vinegar. Soak your feet in the concoction for half an hour, three times a day.

Another recipe calls for 16 ounces of Listerine (the original formula – no mint or citrus flavors!) and 16 ounces of apple cider vinegar blended together. Make sure that the tub or bowl you use is large enough to hold the mixture and roomy enough for your feet! As with the original soak, immerse your feet in this blend for half an hour, three times a day.

The alternative to soaking your feet is much simpler. Just dab a cotton ball or gauze pad in vinegar – or the aforementioned apple cider vinegar and original Listerine blend – apply it to the necessary area twice a day.

• The type of vinegar you use is not necessarily important – there are many different types available on the market, but the most common types used in toenail fungus treatment are typically regular malt vinegar and apple cider vinegar.
• Apple cider vinegar in particular is thought to reduce inflammation, so it may prove effective in reducing intense pain caused by the infection.
• Not sure you can stand the smell? If possible, try to grin and bear it. Remember that you're attacking the toenail fungus with its worst enemy – acid!

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