Nail fungal infection is one of the most common issues people experience that concerns their toenails. Doctors recommend taking this problem seriously. This condition is caused by a fungal spread. We are naturally exposed to various microorganisms including bacteria and yeast. But we usually coexist with them, causing no trouble until they overgrow and spread, giving you an infection. This also gives you numerous symptoms that involve the nail’s appearance.
Defining a toenail fungus
Toenail fungus is also medically known as onychomycosis. This is caused by various microorganisms, the most common of these are known as dermatophytes. Yeasts and molds may also cause it. The microorganism often gains entry through a crack in the nail or a cut in the nearby skin. Toenail infections may range from mild to moderate and severe.
What does it look and feel like?
A range of nail fungal symptoms may occur, but the most common of these include the following: nail thickening, nail discoloration, nail crumbling, separation of the nail from the nail bed, pain and discomfort, distorted nail, a foul smell coming from the nail, and having abnormal or frequent nail breakage.
Who gets it?
Any person of any age can get infected with nail fungus, but the infection becomes more common among older adults. A reason for this is that the nail may become more brittle and cracked as one ages. Other factors that may increase the risk of infection include having diabetes, reduced blood circulation, a weakened immune system, trauma to the toes, walking barefoot in damp public places, and living in a place with a hot and humid climate.
How is it treated?
It is challenging to treat a nail fungal infection, and the problem is that it is more likely to recur. It would be best to see a doctor who will recommend the right nail fungus treatment. Most doctors prescribe oral antifungals which help promote the growth of a new nail. As an alternative, a topical antifungal may also be recommended.
1All about Gokshura
Gokshura (scientific name Tribulus Terrestris) is a small and leafy herb that belongs to the Caltrop family. This is a popular medicinal plant that is often used in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine. Gokshura is known by many names which include Gokhuri, Goat head, Devil’s thorn, Gokharu, Gokhri, Gokshra, and Goksuraka. The fruit of this herb contains sharp thorns that can puncture a cycle tire. This is why the herb gained the name trikanta or puncture vine.
Nutritional Value
Gokshura contains carbohydrates, vitamin C, calcium, protein, fat, and flavonoids. The herb also contains phytosterols and alkaloids. Gokshura also has active components, and the most important of these are alkaloids. It is also known to contain flavonoids, furostanol, glycosides, and terrestrosins A E.
Gokshura is considered an invasive species in North America. This herb may grow in areas with poor soil conditions and desert climates. Gokshura may also be found in Southern Asia, Australia, Africa, and Southern Europe.
In traditional Ayurveda and Chinese medicine, Gokshura fruit and roots have been used to treat a variety of health conditions, which include kidney disease, erectile dysfunction, asthma, chronic coughing, asthma, and urinary tract disorders. In the West, the herb is being marketed as a natural testosterone booster. Gokshura can be bought in various forms such as capsules, tablets, and powder. It is more commonly sold in health outlets as Tribulus terrestris.
As an Antifungal and Antimicrobial
In a study, the antimicrobial activities of Gokshura aqueous and organic extracts from its fruits, leaves, and roots were examined. The antimicrobial effects of the extracts were tested on 11 species of both non-pathogenic and pathogenic microorganisms namely Bacillus subtilis, Corynebacterium diphtheriae, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Candida albicans, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhimurium, and Proteus vulgaris. All the extracts from the herb showed antimicrobial properties against the tested microorganisms.
In another study, the methanol extract of gokshura was investigated for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities. The extract showed substantial inhibition of the growth of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
Other Health Benefits
Several studies were done on the health benefits of gokshura, particularly in the areas of increasing testosterone levels and improving one’s libido. The following are some of the most emerging health benefits of gokshura:
Helps with digestion
Gokshura is known to possess digestive properties that have been established to improve digestion. This increases the rate of absorption of essential nutrients and enhances digestion by stimulating the release of digestive juices. It also alleviates the symptoms of conditions like ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, stomach pain, distension, and prevention of fluid retention.
Helps with premature signs of aging and wrinkle formation
Consuming gokshura regularly is believed to delay aging. It also helps in preventing wrinkles and reducing body fat. It also helps in preventing muscular deterioration.
Supports skin health
Gokshura is a superb natural skin antioxidant and cleanser that can help in healing oxidative free radical damage brought by the sun’s rays. When used every day, this herb may help reduce the appearance of dark circles, fine lines, wrinkles, spots, and many other symptoms of aging. The herb is also known to treat itching, wounds, hives, and skin infections, and ensure that you have a smooth, radiant, supple, and greatly rejuvenated complexion.
Helps with cardiac functioning
Due to its potent antioxidative properties, the gokshura can be useful in treating different heart conditions. This can strengthen the cardiac muscles and keeps lipids and debris away from the blood vessels, preventing atherosclerosis as a result. Gokshura also possesses bioactive ingredients that may reduce the levels of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA). This results in lowering the possibility of strokes, heart attacks, blood clots, as well as other cardiovascular diseases. This is essential in making sure that the blood cholesterol levels are in check.
Treats urinary disorders
Gokshura is known to treat urinary conditions such as the following: painful urination, urinary incontinence, and that burning sensation when you urinate. It can also help with dysuria since it functions as a mild diuretic. Urinary infections may also be prevented by this herb’s varying antimicrobial and antibacterial characteristics. It also stimulates proper urination which takes away the pain and burning micturition.
