Onychomycosis also known as tinea unguium is a nail fungal infection that can affect the toenails and fingernails. This condition appears in 10 percent of the adult population in the US alone. There are various types of nail fungal infections. They vary according to the microorganism that caused it. The most common cause of a nail fungal infection is a group of fungi known as dermatophytes.
Most types of nail infections have the same symptoms which entail the nails becoming thick and discolored. The infection often starts at the tip of the nail and goes down as the infection progresses. The infected nail may also become itchy and painful in some cases. The infected nail may also become crumbly. It is also common for the infected nail to break off or completely fall off the nail bed.
Triggers
Several factors may trigger a nail fungal infection. These include the following: wearing inappropriate tight-fitting shoes and socks, repetitive trauma to the nail from playing sports and other strenuous physical activities, Fungi thrive well in a warm and moist environment. This is why healthy people often get infected with nail fungus when they frequent places like communal showers, public pools and jacuzzis, and nail salons with unclean tools.
Treatment
It’s significant for someone who shows symptoms of a nail fungal infection to see a doctor. The doctor will provide a diagnosis after investigating the symptoms. A nail fungus treatment plan will be provided based on the diagnosis. In some cases, a nail sample has to be sent to a lab to determine the exact microorganism that caused the infection.
Medications prescribed by the doctor can be oral or topical. The most effective of these are the oral antifungals, but they can have side effects. Some doctors may recommend a combination of topical and oral antifungals for treatment.
1All about the Zobo Drink
The Zobo drink is from the Hibiscus flower which is also called zobo in the Hausa language. It is a highly nutritious drink that comes from Hibiscus leaves. This drink tastes sweet and it is loved by many Nigerians. This drink is available the entire year. Zobo can be found in many restaurants, and hawkers sell it too. It’s not hard to make this drink, which originated in West Africa. Furthermore, it is known to contain lots of health benefits. This nutritious drink can be taken to prevent and treat various diseases.
You can find several hundreds of Hibiscus species. They vary in location and climate. The most common species used for making the zobo drink is Hibiscus sabdariffa. Beyond Africa, this species which is commonly known across the world as roselle has several medical applications. It is also popular for various medicinal applications in Indian Ayurveda.
As an Antifungal
Hibiscus is also a good antifungal agent. A published study in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Biomedicine revealed that the Hibiscus extract inhibits the growth of Candida albicans, a type of yeast that grows on the skin, nails, gut, and the vaginal floral.
Other Health Benefits
The zobo drink has been established to possess several magnificent health benefits. Some of its best health benefits include the following:
Boosts the Immune System
This nutritious drink is loaded with vitamin C, which fortifies the body’s immune system. It also fights off several infections and diseases. By taking zobo regularly, the body’s level of vitamin C is increased, fortifying the immune system. With zobo’s vitamin C content, the body can also fight off coughs and colds. Vitamin C eliminates inflammation and gets rid of bacteria, which prevents coughs and colds. It also has a cooling effect which helps bring down the body temperature and provide fever relief.
Energizes the Body
Zobo leaves contain Vitamin B2 or riboflavin which are known to increase the body’s energy levels and fight off fatigue and symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome. This vitamin is involved in energy metabolism, hence increasing the body’s energy levels.
Aids Weight Loss
Several studies have shown the positive effects of concentrated hibiscus on weight loss. One study exhibited that hibiscus resulted in a lower body mass index, hip-to-waist ratio, body weight, and body fat. An earlier study also showed that hibiscus extract resulted in reduced cholesterol and triglycerides in Mexicans. This can result in a reduced risk of obesity.
Helps Defy Premature Aging
Zobo is one of the most effective age-defying drinks anyone can think of. This drink contains anti-aging properties that can help delay the body’s aging process. Thanks to the vitamin C and anthocyanins found in its extracts. Zobo can keep you looking young as it prevents aging symptoms like wrinkles, suppleness, and hydration loss from occurring.
Ensures a Healthy Nervous System
Zobo also contains thiamine or vitamin B1, which helps in maintaining a healthy nervous system. The vitamin also supports the heart’s muscles and improves the body’s cardiovascular functions. Apart from protecting the nervous system, zobo also boosts the eye, hair, liver, and oral health.
Fights Off Diabetes
The unsweetened zobo can help bring down the sugar levels in the bloodstream. This prevents and treats diabetes. It is a safe drink for diabetics to take for as long as there is no sugar, natural or artificial, added to it.
Fights Off Anemia
Zobo leaves are high in iron content, the mineral required for creating new red blood cells and hemoglobin. The red blood cells enable oxygen to be transported to the entire body. People who suffer from anemia and low pack cell volume can drink zobo regularly to boost their body’s levels of iron. The drink will also let you fight off symptoms of anemia such as fatigue and weakness.
A Superb Anti-Depressant Agent
The Zobo drink is loaded with lots of vitamins and minerals. Moreover, it is rich in flavonoids which have been observed to have anti-depressant properties. This is also why gobi can calm the nervous system and at the same time reduce anxiety and prevents depression as it helps to relax the mind and body in general.
Before you take the zobo regularly, it is recommended to consult with your doctor first about any of your medical concerns, supplements, and conditions.
