Toenail fungus infection is a common condition that begins through the emergence of a yellow or white spot under your fingernail or toenail. As the toenail infection gets worse, it can change the color of the nails; the nails may also go brittle and may crumble. The infection may also spread to other toenails. If the condition is not severe and it does not bother you, treatment may not be necessary. However, if it is causing you pain and discomfort and it has caused your nails to thicken, then you may need some self-care steps and medications to help. Even if toenail fungus can be treated, it is more likely to recur. Toenail fungus is also known as onychomycosis.
3Vicks Vapor Rub
Over the years, many home remedies and over-the-counter medications are considered by those who suffer from toenail fungus. One of these is Vicks Vapor rub. It is said that Vicks has hidden podiatric potential.
Treatment Potential
Based on a 2019 New York Times article, a study revealed that one of Vicks Vapor rub’s active ingredients known as thymol has been seen to have antifungal properties. Thymol is a chemical compound that is commonly found in the oil of the common herb thyme. In a study that tested the antifungal effects of the ingredients of the popular rub thymol was discovered to be the most effective in dealing with the growth of dermatophytes. Dermatophytes are a common type of fungi that humans may get from other humans, soil, and animals. These cause toenail fungus infection. Some animal studies have shown that thymol oil is effective in eliminating dermatophytes. Studies have also revealed that thymol oil can get rid of Candida which is another cause of toenail fungus. It does so by disturbing the metabolism and production of cell membranes.
How to Apply
It is important to trim the toenails affected by the fungus. Wash the foot especially the affected toes and dry the foot with a clean towel. Get a clean spoon and scoop a sufficient amount of the rub from the container. Avoid using your finger on the nail and dipping it again into the vapor rub. Use a cotton swab to apply Vicks on the infected nails. Make sure the entire nail is covered including the areas under the nails and into the cuticles. Then rub Vicks all over and cover the toe or toes with a bandage or a sock. Doing this helps in absorption, instead of rubbing off Vicks on the sheets or other surfaces. This procedure has to be repeated twice daily, preferably in the morning and at night. It may take five months before some changes become visible. That is why you have to be really patient.
If the infection persists and you experience redness, pain, and swelling in the area, it’s better to check with your physician. It’s important to wash right away all the towels that are used on the affected foot and that you make sure that your nails are always trimmed, clean, and dry to prevent the development of toenail fungus.
