Ingredients Needed:
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
- 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda
- 5-6 drops of tea tree oil
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil
- 2 cloves of garlic (optional, for an extra boost)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Soak the Affected Nails in Apple Cider Vinegar:
- Start by soaking your infected nails in a bowl filled with 1 cup of warm apple cider vinegar. Soak for 10-15 minutes to allow the vinegar to penetrate the nail.
- Prepare the Baking Soda and Garlic Paste:
- Crush 2 cloves of garlic and mix them with 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda and a little water to form a paste. This paste will help exfoliate and break down the fungus on the nails.
- Apply the Paste to the Nails:
- After soaking, dry your nails completely. Apply the baking soda and garlic paste directly onto the affected nails. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, then gently scrub with a soft brush to help exfoliate.
- Rinse and Dry:
- Rinse off the paste with warm water and dry the nails thoroughly.
- Apply Tea Tree Oil and Coconut Oil:
- Mix 5-6 drops of tea tree oil with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil. Using a cotton swab, apply this mixture directly to the affected nails and surrounding skin. This will kill any remaining fungal spores and nourish the skin.
- Repeat Regularly:
- For the best results, repeat this treatment twice daily—once in the morning and once before bed.
Why This Remedy Works
Apple Cider Vinegar
- The acidic nature of apple cider vinegar helps stop the growth of fungi, breaking down the environment in which it thrives.
Baking Soda
- Baking soda helps to neutralize acidity, but it also fights fungal growth by softening the nail, allowing the other ingredients to penetrate deeply.
Tea Tree Oil and Coconut Oil
- Tea tree oil and coconut oil are both powerful antifungals that penetrate the nail bed and surrounding skin, ensuring that the fungal infection is tackled from all sides.
Garlic
- Adding garlic to this remedy provides an extra boost of antifungal action, directly attacking the fungus that causes the infection.
Additional Tips to Prevent Nail Fungus
- Keep Nails Dry and Clean:
- Fungi thrive in moist environments. Always keep your feet and hands dry and avoid wearing damp socks or gloves.
- Trim Nails Regularly:
- Regularly trimming your nails will help keep the infection at bay and prevent further damage.
- Avoid Sharing Nail Tools:
- Never share nail clippers, files, or other nail tools. This can spread fungal infections.
- Wear Breathable Footwear:
- Choose shoes made from breathable materials, and avoid wearing tight, enclosed shoes for extended periods.
Conclusion
Nail fungus doesn’t have to be a long-term issue. With this natural remedy that combines the antifungal power of apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, coconut oil, and garlic, you can remove nail fungus swiftly and effectively. Incorporate these steps into your daily routine, and watch your nails transform from infected and brittle to healthy and strong.