Nail fungal infection also goes by the name onychomycosis is a common condition that affects the foot. Most of those who suffer from this don’t look for treatment partly because they don’t even know that they are infected. One reason for this is that the condition does not cause pain. This nail condition becomes more prevalent among older adults.
Nail fungal infection is an infection of the nail bed and nail plate. It is caused by different microorganisms that thrive in our surrounding environment. Fungi are parasitic organisms that don’t contain chlorophyll and need no sunlight to thrive. Dermatophytes are a group of fungi that easily attacks the nail to feed on keratin, the protein found in nails. When such tiny organisms have infected the nails, the nail may turn thicker, yellowish or brownish, and at times even odorous. You may find a buildup of debris underneath the nail plate. White marks may also appear on the nail surface. The infection may spread to other toenails, the skin, and even to other parts of the body like the fingernails.
What factors may exacerbate the infection?
Several factors may increase the chances of being infected with nail fungus. Walking barefoot in public areas like swimming pools and changing rooms may spread the infection. Frequent use of unsanitized pedicure tools may also cause the spread of infection. Some individuals may be more susceptible to the infection than others. These are those who have chronic conditions like diabetes, a weakened immune system, or a blood circulation disorder.
How do you treat a nail fungal infection?
A nail fungus treatment depends on the nature or cause of the infection and its level of severity. Over-the-counter medication may be effective, but they rarely produce a permanent treatment. This is mainly because topical treatments find it hard to penetrate the nail plate. For a more aggressive treatment, doctors often prescribe oral antifungal medication which should be taken for three months.
1All about Asam Gelugor
Asam Gelugor (scientific name Garcinia atroviridis) is a plant that is native to India, Malaysia, Thailand, and Myanmar. This is a perennial plant that is characterized by its drooping branches and smooth gray bark. The fruits of Asam Gelugor may be consumed raw, and they may also be added to different soups, dishes, and curries. The fruit’s color may range from yellow to orange. Asam Gelugor is called by many names such as Asam gelugo, Gelugor, and Som-Khaek. This plant species belongs to the family Clusiaceae (alt.Guttiferae).
Traditionally, the Asam Gelugor may be used for treating coughs, acne, earaches, high blood pressure, stimulating blood circulation, and others.
Culinary Applications and Edibility
The fruit of this plant is often sliced, dried, or stewed. It is often used as an ingredient in various curries and soups. The sun-dried slices of its fruits are known to be sour, and these are used as salad vegetables. The fruit is loaded with tartaric acid, ascorbic acid, malic acid, citric acid, hydroxycitric acid (HCA), and flavonoids. Its leaves may also be used as food. They are thought of as a vegetable, and they are consumed raw, cooked, or mixed in different salads.
As an Antifungal and Antimicrobial
Researchers found out that the butanol extract of the Asam Gelugor fruit can strongly inhibit Cladosporium herbarum (molds) which is a common pathogen that can trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks in individuals who are sensitive to it.
Extracts and isolated compounds of Asam Gelugor were found to have antifungal and antimicrobial properties against various pathogens such as Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and other fungi (Alternaria sp., Fusarium moniliforme and Aspergillus ochraceous) including Candida albicans.
Other Health Benefits
Asam Gelugor has a sour taste; but aside from this, it is also loaded with antioxidant properties and various flavonoids. This is primarily known as a laxative and expectorant. It also helps in absorbing excess fat. Studies have exhibited that the Asam Gelugor possesses antioxidant, antifungal, anti-obesity, antiulcerogenic, antimicrobial, anti-diabetes, antifungal, antitumor, and anti-inflammatory activities. This plant is primarily used because of its economic and health benefits, besides its culinary applications.
Tumor Prevention
Asam Gelugor has ester derivatives namely 1′,1′′-dibutyl methyl hydroxycitrate, and 2-(butoxy-carbonyl methyl)-3-butoxy carbonyl-2-hydroxy-3-propanolide which are found in its fruit. The second compound is known for its antitumor activity. These two compounds are not yet poisonous when they are adjacent to the cells. The brine ship, on the other hand, is an antioxidant. The second compound together with its related structures is known as a noncytotoxic chemopreventive agent.
Helps with Weight Loss
Studies revealed that various extracts of Asam Gelugor are helpful for weight loss. The scope of its effect is still limited, and it requires more scientific studies. Future studies need to be more accurate, lengthy, and detailed.
A Good Source of Antioxidants
The fruit extracts of Asam Gelugor have shown antioxidant content not to mention an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor with a sufficient amount of phenolic content and flavonoids. The fruit is known for multiple health benefits due to its various antioxidant and anticholinesterase properties. This is a great treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.
The extracts from the fruit of Asam Gelugor are believed to reduce triglyceride and LDL cholesterols and at the same time increase the HDL cholesterol levels. This is why it is highly beneficial in delaying the onset of atherosclerosis.
Traditional Uses
In Southeast Asia, a decoction made from the leaves and roots of Asam Gelugor can be used for treating dandruff, cough, throat irritation, stomachaches linked with pregnancy, and earaches. Dried fruit of Asam Gelugor is often used as a remedy for coughs, and it is often used to increase blood circulation, as a laxative, as well as an expectorant. The fruit may also be used as a lotion when mixed with vinegar. This can be rubbed on the abdomen of women after childbirth. The dried rind may be used in herbal teas. This may also be consumed in the form of capsules.
Precautions
This must not be used excessively to prevent adverse effects. People who are allergic to Asam Gelugor must not use it.
