Nail fungal infections can begin with damage or injury to the toe itself. The infection becomes present due to the inflammation, slow healing and loss of circulation. Long term management of nail complaints requires persistence and attention. Watching for signs of infection is recommended in order to reduce the risk of further irritation, damage and potential nail loss. A toe nail provides protection against invading pathogens and if this area becomes damaged it is more susceptible to infections finding a way in. Appropriate wound management may help the toe nail to recover from the damage and in time its growth should recorrect, however if the ingrown toenail continues to cause a problem I suggest speaking to a Podiatrist who can assist you further.
TOPICAL REMEDIES FOR NAIL FUNGUS
The following is a list of anti-fungal and healing herbs which can be applied topically. You may add any of these herbs to a base oil solution of Wheatgerm or Avocado oil and add it to a bowl of warmed water and soak the affected area:
- Propolis
- Calendula
- Tea tree
- Garlic
- Lemon myrtle
- Lemon grass
- Patchouli
- Thuja
- Olive leaf
- Colloidal silica
- Poke root
- Oregon grape root
DIET TIPS TO REDUCE FUNGAL INFECTIONS
- Include yoghurt in your diet to establish good bacteria within your digestive system, or take a probiotic supplement to establish a good microflora environment to ward off detrimental bacteria which contributes to this condition
- Add Garlic and onion in your cooking, for good microbial protection through the whole body
- Eliminate foods which encourage the growth of Candida/ yeast such as sugar, dairy, wheat, yeasts, alcohol, moulds and mushrooms
- Plenty of water, fresh fruits and veges to alkalise the blood, change the pH of the blood and encourage alkalinity to discourage the bacteria which thrives on acidic blood
- Begin each day with a glass of lemon juice in a glass of warm water every morning to cleanse the body
- Alternatively use apple cider vinegar instead of lemon juice taken before meals. You can even rub this on your skin for great results and temporary relief from the itch associated with this skin condition
LIFESTYLE FACTORS
- Practicing good hygiene is important to reduce the risk of further infection or transfer of infection to others
NATURAL REMEDIES FOR FUNGAL INFECTIONS
Diet suggestions to improve immunity, circulation and wound healing:
- Soak the affected area in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil and garlic added to warmed water
- Zinc supplementation helps maintain healthy skin and fight infections. Improve your anti-oxidant status by increasing Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Zinc, Selenium which may all improve the overall health of the immune system and reduce inflammation
- Potent anti-fungal herbs such as Pau D’arco, Wormwood, Rhubarb, Picorrhiza, Garlic, Oregon Grape Root, Olive leaf, Thuja, Barberry, Black Walnut, Cloves, Myrrh, Neem and Oregano
- Probiotics are important to help establish good levels of beneficial bacteria
