Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common and persistent infection. It can be unsightly and uncomfortable, and it can be difficult to get rid of. There are many treatments available, ranging from prescription medications to over-the-counter remedies, and even surgical removal of the nail in severe cases.
But what about home remedies? You may have heard that baking soda can help treat toenail fungus. But does it really work? This article will explore the potential of using baking soda and toenail fungus treatments at home, examining how to use it, how effective it is, and what other treatments are available. We’ll also cover some tips for preventing toenail fungus in the first place.
So, let’s dive in and see if baking soda is the answer to your toenail fungus woes.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus is a common condition that can happen to anyone.
If you have toenail fungus, you’re not alone! Toenail fungus is also called onychomycosis. It’s a fungal infection that occurs under the toenails.
What causes toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus happens when fungi get into your toenail. Fungi love moist, warm places, like the area inside your socks and shoes!
You’re more likely to get a toenail infection if you:
- Are an older adult (because your immune system may not be as strong)
- Have diabetes
How Do You Get Toenail Fungus?
Fungal infections are no fun. They happen when fungi sneak into your toenail through cracks or cuts in your skin or nail. Once they’re in, they set up shop and start to thrive.
Fungi love moist environments, which is why you’ll often find them hanging out in places like showers, swimming pools, and even nail salons. These are breeding grounds for all sorts of nasty organisms.
That’s why proper foot hygiene is so important, including hacks like a 3 minute shower routine. Make sure you wash your feet regularly with soap and water. And most importantly, dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes. This deprives the fungus of the moisture it needs to grow.
Is toenail fungus contagious?
Yep, toenail fungus is contagious. You can catch it through direct contact with someone who has it.
The fungus really likes moist environments, so it spreads easily in places like public showers, swimming pools, and even nail salons if they don’t disinfect their tools properly. Basically, any place where people walk around barefoot and things get damp is a potential breeding ground.
That’s why taking steps to prevent toenail fungus is so important, not just for your own feet, but to keep from spreading it to other people or other parts of your body.
Baking soda for toenail fungus: Does it work?
Toenail fungus is a tough problem to deal with. Many people want to know whether home remedies, like baking soda, can help.
The science behind baking soda
Baking soda, also called sodium bicarbonate, is alkaline. This means it can prevent fungi from growing and spreading.
Fungi thrive in acidic conditions. Baking soda can change the pH level of its surroundings, making the environment less appealing to fungi.
Research and studies
Some studies suggest baking soda has antifungal properties. One study showed that baking soda stopped fungal growth in 79% of nail samples and reduced it in 17%. The study tracked the samples for seven days.
However, more research is needed to know exactly how well baking soda can fight fungal infections. It’s not a proven treatment, but it might help some people.
How to use baking soda for toenail fungus
If you want to try baking soda for toenail fungus, here are a couple of ways to use it:
- Baking soda paste: Mix baking soda with a little water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the infected toenail and let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing.
- Baking soda soak: You can also soak your feet in a tub of warm water mixed with baking soda, or try specialized products like Long Creek Herbs Nail Fungus Soak.
These methods are simple and generally safe, but they may not be effective for everyone. If you don’t see improvement, talk to your doctor about other options.
Other home remedies for toenail fungus
If you’d like to try some other remedies for toenail fungus, here are a few options:
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil has properties that allow it to fight fungus and help keep things clean. To use it, dilute some tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, and apply it to the nail that’s affected.
Apple cider vinegar
The acidity in apple cider vinegar may not be a friend to fungal growth. Try soaking the infected toenails in a mixture of two parts vinegar to one part water.
Vicks VapoRub
You probably know Vicks VapoRub as something you rub on your chest when you have a cold. But it may also have some properties that help fight fungus, thanks to ingredients such as camphor and eucalyptus oil. Simply apply a little dab to the affected nail every day.
Snakeroot extract
Snakeroot extract is a remedy that has been used for a long time to fight fungus. Apply the snakeroot extract directly to the affected nail.
Keep in mind that home remedies may not work for everyone, and it’s a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about toenail fungus.
What are some conventional treatments for toenail fungus?
If you’re dealing with toenail fungus, you have a few options to consider. It’s always a good idea to talk with a doctor about the best course of treatment for you, but here’s a quick overview of some of the most common approaches:
Over-the-counter treatments
You can find antifungal creams, gels, and sprays like Medinail at your local pharmacy. These are often a first choice for mild cases, but keep in mind that they may not be strong enough to tackle more severe infections, and they can take a while to show results.
Prescription treatments
For more stubborn cases, your doctor might prescribe medications like terbinafine or itraconazole. These can be more effective than over-the-counter options, but they also come with potential side effects, such as liver issues and nausea, so you’ll need to be monitored by your doctor.
Other medical interventions
In some situations, especially with deep or long-standing infections, removing the nail might be considered. There’s also laser treatment, which is a newer option, but the research is still ongoing to determine how well it works and how safe it is.
How to prevent toenail fungus
No one wants to deal with toenail fungus. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to prevent it.
Foot hygiene
If you want to avoid fungal infections, you have to keep your feet clean and dry. After you bathe or swim, dry your feet thoroughly.
Protective measures
The floors of public areas, like gyms and swimming pools, can harbor toenail fungus. Protect your feet by wearing shower shoes in these areas.
Also, use foot powder to absorb sweat. When your feet stay dry, fungus is less likely to thrive.
Proper footwear
Don’t wear the same socks and shoes multiple days in a row. Change shoes and socks daily to help prevent fungal infections.
When you’re buying shoes, look for breathable materials. Also, avoid wearing shoes that are too tight. When air circulates around your feet, they’re less likely to become a breeding ground for fungus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hydrogen peroxide good for toenail fungus?
Hydrogen peroxide has antiseptic properties and might help kill some surface fungus, but it’s generally not considered a highly effective treatment for toenail fungus. It can lighten the nail and potentially slow fungal growth, but it likely won’t penetrate deeply enough to eradicate the infection.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
Absolutely do not cut your toenail off if it has fungus. This can lead to a painful infection and won’t solve the problem. Instead, keep the nail trimmed short and file down any thick areas. Consult a doctor or podiatrist for appropriate treatment options.
What not to do with toenail fungus?
Avoid picking at or scratching the infected nail, as this can spread the fungus. Don’t wear nail polish, as it traps moisture and can worsen the infection. Also, steer clear of sharing nail clippers or files with others to prevent spreading the fungus.
What worsens toenail fungus?
Moist, warm environments are breeding grounds for fungus. Wearing tight-fitting shoes, not drying your feet thoroughly after showering, and having sweaty feet can all worsen toenail fungus. Compromised immunity can also make you more susceptible.
What is the fastest home remedy for toenail fungus?
There isn’t a single “fastest” home remedy. While some people find relief with baking soda, vinegar soaks, or tea tree oil, these remedies often take weeks or months to show results, if they work at all. It’s important to remember that home remedies may not be effective for severe infections. Consult a doctor for the best treatment plan.
Conclusion
Baking soda might help with toenail fungus, but it’s not a guaranteed cure. It may work for some people, but don’t count on it to clear up an infection all by itself.
Treating toenail fungus is usually most effective when you use more than one approach. Good hygiene and preventative measures can help, and combining baking soda with other treatments might improve your results.
It’s really important to talk to a doctor to get a diagnosis and discuss treatment options, especially if the infection is bad or doesn’t go away. A doctor can give you advice that’s specific to your situation and keep an eye on how well the treatment is working.
Keep in mind that getting rid of toenail fungus takes time and effort. It can take months or even years to fully recover, so be patient and stick with your treatment plan.