Fungal infections that affect the nails are called dermatophytic onychomycosis if not tinea unguium. It is a common health concern and not only cosmetic. Most people who suffer from nail fungus don’t really know that this problem exists since it doesn’t show any symptoms at first until it becomes worse. It is more prevalent among older males, those who are older than 60.
What are some of the symptoms?
Toenail fungal infections are characterized by a change in the nail’s color. There may also be whitening or darkening of the nail. The condition may also be accompanied by a yeast infection which may occur in or around the nail.
Onychomycosis is an infection that occurs on the nail plate and nail bed, which is caused by fungi of different types that commonly grow in the environment. Fungi are parasitic organisms that don’t have chlorophyll and don’t need sunlight to survive. A group of fungi called dermatophytes can attack the nails that easily. When such tiny organisms attack, the nails may become thicker. They may also become yellowish or brownish. It can be foul-smelling and in some cases, the nail may separate from the nail bed. It is possible for the nail fungal infection to spread to other toenails, fingernails, and even other body parts.
How is the nail infection treated?
A nail fungus treatment depends on the level of severity and the cause of the infection. Over-the-counter medications are minimally effective, but none of these would be able to offer permanent treatment. The reason for this is that it is difficult for this type of treatment to penetrate the nail and get into the nail bed. This is also why doctors prescribe oral antifungal pills. They are known for being more effective since they can eliminate the fungus from within. There are also new forms of nail fungus treatments like laser therapy.
1All about Damask Rose
Damask rose is sometimes called the rose of castile. This is the rose variant that is most recognizable. It comes with a classic rose shape and its petals are tightly coiled right in the middle as it blooms outwardly into a full-blown flower. You might find it strange that the damask rose is a hybrid of two rose species Rosa moschata and Rosa gallica. This variant doesn’t grow in the wild. Instead, it is carefully cultivated. The truth is that people have been cultivating this particular type of rose for centuries already. The story behind the name is that this rose variant was brought back to Europe by a French crusader known as Robert de Brie after the siege of Damascus.
Defining Rose Water
Rose water is created by distilling rose petals using steam. Rose water is known for its fragrance. Most often, it is also used as a mild natural fragrance which makes a good alternative to chemical-laden perfumes. Rose water has been used ever since the Middle Ages. It is believed to have originated from Iran. Demark Rose is traditionally used as an ingredient in food and drinks as well as beauty products.
You may buy rose water or create it on your own. Once you have it, it can be used in multiple ways which include the following: use this as a facial toner or cleanser, use this in recipes like the hibiscus iced tea with rose water, and create a rose water body mist by adding this to a spray bottle. This rose water can help relieve stress when splashed on your face, wrists, and even on your pillow.
Forms and Doses
The rose water can be topically applied by itself. It can also be mixed in moisturizers and natural oils such as coconut oil. You may also opt for a rose petal tea or a rose water tea. All these will be able to improve hydration, relieve one from digestive distress, support skin health, and soothe a sore throat.
As an Antifungal and Antimicrobial
A study was done on damask rose essential oil and various petal extracts to show their effects on 11 gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, three fungi, and acid-fast bacteria. These include the following Candida albicans, Penicillium notatum, Aspergillus niger, Streptococcus pyogenes, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Acinetobacter baumannii, and Mycobacterium phlei. Rose oil and all the other extracts showed a broad spectrum of antimicrobial activities against the said microorganisms.
The damask rose along with its products rose water and essential oil contains glycosides, terpenes, anthocyanins, and flavonoids that are known for their benefits to human health. The damask rose has been known to possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, and other effects.
Other Health Benefits
The following are some of the best benefits of the damask rose.
As an antioxidant
A published 2016 study in The Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology suggested that free radicals may cause skin inflammation which may result in pimples and blocked pores. Rose oil and other topical antioxidants may restrict free radical oxidation. The antioxidant activities of rose water have been confirmed in a 2011 study.
Helps with indigestion
The hydrosol content of the rose is used in traditional medicine for treating occasional constipation and indigestion along with other gastric issues.
Menstrual pain remedy
Traditionally, women have used rose water as a remedy for menstrual pain. Even though more human studies are required, a published study in the Journal of Midwifery and Women’s Health revealed that consuming rose tea may help in curing dysmenorrhea as well as improve the well-being of adolescent girls.
Reduces scars from burns and cuts
Scars and wounds often cause discomfort and lower your self-esteem. Rose water is known for its antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Applying this may hasten the natural process of wound healing. These antibacterial properties may also help the cut to remain clean and get rid of the infection.
Sets you in a good mood
Rose water is also known to induce happiness and destress. This is why rose water has been used in aromatherapy for a long time to help patients relax, relieve one’s headaches, and calm their nerves. A published study done by the US National Library of Medicine at the National Institutes of Health showed the effects of rose water, ensuring the promotion of regular relaxed breathing and normal blood pressure.
