Nail Fungal Infection

Onychomycosis is characterized by the presence of fungal nail infections which may cause the development of thickened, brittle, or crumbly nails or toenails. The infection may be painful and the nails may separate from the nail bed.  The nails may also change in color to yellow, green, brown, or black in color, and they may emit a foul odor.

WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF NAIL FUNGAL INFECTIONS?

Skin fungal infections present on the skin are caused by fungal organisms.  These fungi are mostly unharmful to humans however if the spores begin to reproduce and spread conditions such as Candida, athletes foot and other fungal conditions can occur.  The ideal environment for these fungi to multiply and cause complications is in a dark, moist, and warm environment.  Disease-causing fungi may enter the body through the skin, nose, vagina, nails, or mouth.  If left untreated it may lead to further complications of immunity, liver dysfunction, skin conditions, systemic Candida and overall health due to spreading to other parts of the body, however if treated appropriately an individual can experience a complete recovery.

CANDIDA AND NAIL FUNGAL INFECTIONS

There is a strong direct link between the presence of Candida overproliferation and nail or skin fungal infections, this is because health and vitality begin within. If there is an environment which supports the growth of detrimental microflora (damp, acidic and sugar) then the complaint moves from the digestive tract to other areas such as the skin. Therefore for complete resolution a thourough cleanse needs to be performed.

Best results to eradicate this condition are be seen when the full range of areas are addressed (immunity, liver function, anti-fungal treatment, diet, anti-oxidant status). It will pay to persist and address this condition for at least a period of 3-6 months to reduce the chances of it re-occuring later down the track.

DIET TIPS FOR FUNGAL INFECTIONS

  • Include yoghurt in your diet, to establish good bacterias 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
  • Increase fermented foods in your diet
  • 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
  • A mixture of lemon juice, olive oil and garlic can also be added to warmed water and you can soak the affected area

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR FUNGAL INFECTIONS

  • 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 for relief of itching. Propolis, Calendula, Tea tree, Garlic, Lemon myrtle, Lemon grass, Patchouli, Thuja, Olive leaf, Colloidal silica, Poke root, Oregon grape root
  • 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.
  • Herb which have natural potent anti-fungal activity are 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 recolonise the bowel, immunity and gut with healthy bacteria

LIFESTYLE FACTORS FOR FUNGAL INFECTIONS

  • Practicing good hygiene is imperative to reduce the risk of further infection or transfer of infection to others
  • Consider a liver detoxification
  • Improve underlying digestion
  • Address underlying immune weakness and Candida infestation

Share the post "Nail Fungal Infection"