Nail fungal infections are quite common. They are also known as tinea unguium or onychomycosis. This particularly occurs in the toenails although this may also affect the fingernails. A nail fungal infection may cause the nails to become thick, distorted, and discolored. The nails may also cause pain and discomfort. The infection may be cleared up with the help of medication, but this has to be taken for several months.
Who Is More Prone?
Nail fungus infection is more prevalent among individuals who are older than 60 years old. Younger individuals who are into swimming and other sports may also be prone to this. This is so because they frequently use swimming pools and communal showers.
Causes
A nail fungal infection may be caused by a spread of a skin fungal infection, e. g., athlete’s foot or fungal skin infection of the toes. If the skin infection is not treated well, this may spread to the nails. Individuals are more at risk of being infected when they have the following conditions: diabetes, psoriasis, poor circulation, a weakened immune system, and a poor state of general health. Smoking may also increase the risk of getting infected with nail fungus.
Nail infections are usually caused by fungi, the most common of which are dermatophytes although yeasts and molds may also cause nail fungal infections.
Symptoms
The infected nail may become thickened and change in color, becoming yellow or green. When the infection worsens, yellow or white patches may appear on the areas where the nails have come off the skin. The entire nail can fall off. The nail may also become soft and crumbly. Bits of the nail can come off. The skin surrounding the infected nail may also be scaly and inflamed.
Treatments
Fungal nail infection is often cleared by antifungal oral medications. This nail fungus treatment can be Terbinafine tablets or Itraconazole tablets. A medicated nail lacquer may also be applied directly to the infected nail.
1All about Camel Thorn as Remedy
Camel thorn (scientific name Alhagi pseudalhagi) is more popularly known as Yavasa or Javasa. It is known to be significant in the field of Ayurveda medicine because of its multiple health benefits. This comes as a tall and thorny herb that has an extensive root system. It is also a perennial plant that is mainly found in Central Asia. In the Indian region, this is widely distributed in the Himalayas, Kashmir, Ganges valley, and also some parts of Rajasthan and Gujarat. This herb is known for boosting one’s physical strength.
Based on biologists’ studies, the Yavasa originated from Iran and Afghanistan centuries past. Later on, it was discovered by Ayurvedic practitioners in India primarily due to its laxative and diuretic properties. This is used in various cosmetic products and natural sweeteners. Some of its popular names are Caspian manna, Hebrew manna, Camelthorn, Persian manna, and Moor’s alhagi.
Uses in Ayurveda
In the principles of the Ayurveda, camel thorn is cold in potency while light for digestion. The main part of the herb that is used for medicinal purposes is the root. The root possesses different phytochemical compounds like Hormidine, B-Phenethylamine, salsolidine, and also limited quantities of Betaine and choline. The root of the herb also contains phytosterols and alkaloids. This plant is known in Ayurveda to have laxative, anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac, antipyretic, and diuretic properties.
As an Antimicrobial
The yavasa has been used in Iranian traditional medicine as a treatment for various infections. Based on an in vivo study, the methanol extract taken from the A. camelorum flowers has powerful antimicrobial properties against the bacteria Escherichia Coli and Staphylococcus aureus.
In another study, the extracts from the leaves and flowers of camel thorn were observed to possess antimicrobial activities which were attributed to the antimicrobial properties of the plant. Another published study revealed that A. mauroram extract from the plant inhibits the growth of several pathogenic bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia Coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. It has also been known to be effective against fungi such as Trichoderma, Fusarium, and Aspergillus.
Other Health Benefits
Apart from the aforementioned uses and traditional applications, the camel thorn also has the following health benefits:
For sexual health
The camel thorn in Ayurveda is used as a natural aphrodisiac. Regular intake of this herb is thought to increase the sexual drive among men. This is capable of boosting the quality and quantity of sperm in men, and it also prevents premature ejaculation. It can also treat seminal ejaculations as well as urinary disorders.
For treating liver ailments
Iranian traditional medicine tells us how beneficial camel thorn is for treating liver-related ailments. This is due to the hepatoprotective properties that this plant contains, making it a good herb to improve liver functioning and reduce complications caused by fatty liver. It also helps prevent inflammation in the liver cells.
For diabetes management
Several studies have revealed that camel thorn has hypoglycemic properties. This suggests the possible contribution of this herb in managing diabetes. A study done on rats showed that the regular administration of a particular dose of camel thorn was observed to help with reducing the rate of hyperglycemia linked with diabetes.
For arthritis treatment
Camel thorn is loaded with anti-inflammatory properties that can be beneficial for treating arthritis. All you have to do is massage the affected areas with this herb’s root extracts to provide pain relief in the joints, arms, and legs.
For digestion
Camel thorn is a popular Ayurvedic herb known to support the body’s healthy digestive system. The chemical compounds that can be found in this herb can boost digestion and help deal with various digestive problems such as heartburn and indigestion. It also addresses constipation.
May help with healthy weight gain
Camel thorn has a wide array of applications in Ayurvedic traditional medicine, particularly in inducing a healthy weight gain. This herb can get rid of bad cholesterol and at the same time promote a healthy weight gain. Moreover, it boosts the body’s physical strength.
Camel thorn leaves are also used for treating headaches and chest pains.
