Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a very common infection. If you’ve ever had it, you know how difficult it can be to treat. Over-the-counter and prescription remedies can take a long time to work, and sometimes they don’t work at all.
That’s why people are constantly looking for other options. One such option is boric acid.
Boric acid is a naturally occurring compound with antiseptic and antimicrobial properties. Some people have found it to be an effective treatment for toenail fungus.
This article explores the uses, benefits, and risks of using boric acid for toenail fungus.
What is boric acid?
Boric acid is a chemical compound with the formula H3BO3. It typically appears as a white powder or as colorless crystals.
Boric acid has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, which means it can stop the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. That’s one reason why people have explored using it in different ways over the years.
It’s important to note that boric acid may be unsafe if swallowed or inhaled, so it is best to use it topically.
Common uses of boric acid
Boric acid has a variety of uses. You’ll find it in:
- pharmaceutical products
- cosmetics
- contact lens solutions
- disinfectants
- insecticides
- wood preservatives
Boric Acid for Toenail Fungus: The Potential Benefits
Some people try boric acid as a treatment for toenail fungus. Will it work for you?
Antifungal Properties and Mechanism of Action
Boric acid is a chemical compound with mild antifungal and antiseptic properties. It may work against fungus by interfering with its cell walls or its metabolic processes. It also has a drying effect. Since fungi thrive in moist environments, boric acid may work by drying out the area around the affected nail, but it is important to consider other toenail fungus treatment and prevention methods as well.
How to use Boric Acid for Toenail Fungus
Some people sprinkle boric acid powder directly onto the affected nail. Others dissolve the powder in water to create a soak for the affected foot.
If you want to try boric acid, be sure to start with proper hygiene:
- Trim the affected nail.
- Clean the entire area around the affected nail.
- Consider soaking your foot in warm water before applying the boric acid.
What does the evidence say?
There isn’t a lot of scientific research looking specifically at boric acid for toenail fungus. Most of the support for this treatment is anecdotal or based on boric acid’s general antifungal properties.
Some people who have tried boric acid for toenail fungus report positive results. You may find testimonials online from people who say it helped them when other treatments failed. But keep in mind that everyone’s experience is different, and what works for one person may not work for another.
What are the risks of using boric acid?
Boric acid can be toxic if you swallow it or breathe it in. Never take boric acid internally. It’s only meant to be used on the outside of your body to treat toenail fungus.
If you use it on your skin, it could cause:
- Skin irritation
- Redness
- Dryness
Some people should never use boric acid:
- Pregnant people
- Children
- People with kidney problems
Before you try boric acid for toenail fungus, talk with your doctor, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
How to handle and store boric acid
When you use boric acid, protect yourself:
- Wear gloves when you put boric acid powder on your toes and feet.
And keep it away from your loved ones:
- Store boric acid in a cool, dry place.
- Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
Boric acid vs. conventional toenail fungus treatments
There are many ways to treat toenail fungus, and boric acid is just one of them, along with treatments such as coconut oil. Here’s how it stacks up against some of the more common treatments.
Traditional treatments
If you go to the doctor with toenail fungus, they may prescribe a topical cream, an oral medication, or even laser therapy.
These treatments can be highly effective, but they also come with potential downsides. For example, some oral medications can cause side effects, and laser therapy can be expensive. Topical treatments are less likely to cause side effects, but they aren’t always effective.
Boric acid: An alternative or complementary therapy
Boric acid is a potentially safer and more affordable option. It may be a good choice for mild to moderate cases of toenail fungus, or it can be used along with other treatments.
Before you decide on any treatment, be sure to talk to your doctor. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option and decide what’s best for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you use boric acid for fungal infection?
Boric acid is sometimes used topically for fungal infections. Some people dissolve boric acid powder in warm water and soak the affected area, like a foot with toenail fungus, for a specific duration. Always dilute it properly and follow guidelines found from reputable sources or your doctor’s recommendations. It’s crucial to avoid ingesting boric acid, as it can be toxic.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
Whether to wear socks to bed with toenail fungus is a matter of preference and hygiene, and it is important to disinfect socks from toenail fungus effectively. If you use a topical treatment, clean cotton socks can help keep the medication in place and prevent the fungus from spreading. However, ensure your feet remain dry, as moisture can worsen the condition. Change socks daily and wash them thoroughly.
Can borax help with toenail fungus?
While borax (sodium borate) is chemically related to boric acid, they are not the same. Some people mistakenly use them interchangeably. There is limited scientific evidence supporting the use of borax for toenail fungus, and it is generally not recommended due to potential skin irritation and lack of proven effectiveness. Stick to established treatments recommended by healthcare professionals.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Cutting off a toenail with fungus is generally not recommended and should only be considered under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Removing the nail can create an opening for further infection. A doctor may surgically remove part or all of the nail in severe cases, but this is usually done alongside other treatments.
What worsens toenail fungus?
Several factors can worsen toenail fungus. These include a warm, moist environment (like sweaty socks or shoes), poor foot hygiene, nail injuries, wearing tight-fitting shoes, and conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system. Promptly addressing these factors can help prevent the fungus from spreading and improve treatment outcomes.
Closing Thoughts
Boric acid’s antifungal properties make it a possible alternative treatment for toenail fungus, but it’s important to remember that it’s not a proven treatment. It might help, but it might not, and it does come with potential risks.
Before using boric acid to treat toenail fungus, talk with your doctor. They can help you figure out if it’s safe for you and whether there are better, more effective treatments to try first.
More research is needed to fully understand how well boric acid works for toenail fungus and what the long-term effects might be. Future studies could help determine its potential as a reliable treatment option.