Perhaps one of the reasons why you keep your toes hidden in your shoes is nail fungus. After all discolored and broken nails are not something that you like to show off. Podiatrists may help you when you’re struggling with nail fungus.
Causes
The root cause of all nail fungal infections are microorganisms that may stimulate an overgrowth of fungi. Fungi may occur under, in, or on the nail. The toenails most of the time develop fungus due to the environment inside the shoes, which is warm and moist. This type of fungi is also the main cause of athlete’s foot, jock itch, and ringworm.
Risk factors
Mani-pedi tools may also spread the infection when they are not properly sanitized. You better ask the nail salon you frequently visit if they regularly sanitize their tools. Also, avoid walking barefoot in public areas like pools and locker rooms. Circulation problems, diabetes, having an athlete’s foot, and a nail injury may also increase the risk of fungal infection.
Signs and Symptoms
Some of the more common signs of nail fungus are the following: nail distortion, nail discoloration, nails that may separate from the nail bed, thickened nails, and brittle or crumbly nails. A corner of the nail may begin to disintegrate or it may fall off totally.
Treatment
Several treatments are available for nail fungus, but it’s wise to seek the recommendation of a podiatrist. Some over-the-counter medications can help relieve symptoms, but they may not eliminate the fungus for good. It is likely for the infection to recur. A podiatrist may give you a prescription oral antifungal, which may fight off the infection completely.
Another option is a topical nail fungus treatment. This type of nail treatment may be applied directly to the nail. This is less effective compared to oral antifungals. These medications may be taken for several months before it is totally eliminated.
1All about Brahmi
Brahmi, the scientific name Bacopa monnieri, is called by many other names like the herb of grace, water hyssop, and thyme-leaved gratiola. This is a staple plant in Ayurvedic medicine. This is known to grow in wet and tropical environments. It can also survive in an underwater environment, which is why it is popularly used in aquariums.
Bacopa monnieri is a common herb used by Ayurvedic medical practitioners for centuries. This is known for its numerous applications for enhancing memory, curing epilepsy, and reducing anxiety. Research has also shown that the herb may boost brain function and help reduce stress and anxiety. These benefits are brought about by powerful compounds that are known as bacosides.
Nutritional Value
Brahmi contains the following nutrients: polyunsaturated and saturated fats, sodium, carbs, dietary fiber, and sugar.
As an Antifungal / Antimicrobial
Various extracts from dried Brahmi leaves and stems namely petroleum ether, methanol, acetone, water, and chloroform were found to be effective against Aspergillus niger, Staphylococcus species, Bacillus species, and Candida albicans. The extracts of Brahmi leaves and stems show excellent antifungal and antibacterial activity. It was also revealed in the study that methanol and acetone extracts exhibited the highest efficacy rate against the aforementioned bioactive compounds.
Other Health Benefits
The following are some of the great benefits of brahmi:
Lowers stress
Chewing 2 to 3 leaves of brahmi may provide relief from anxiety and stress. This is because brahmi decreases the cortisol levels in the body. Cortisol is a stress hormone. Brahmi reduces the effects of stress, making one relaxed and calm.
Boosts the immune system
Regular consumption of the herb is capable of boosting the immune system. The antioxidant compounds found in it may enhance the effects of the nutrients which may result in an improved response time of the body’s immune system against various pathogens and consequently bacterial or virus infections.
May reduce inflammation
Chronic low-level inflammation has been associated with a lot of chronic conditions, which include diabetes, cancer, as well as heart and kidney disease. Bacopa monnieri has been seen to suppress pro-inflammatory cytokines. These are molecules that are capable of stimulating an inflammatory immune response. According to test-tube and animal studies, this inhibits enzymes like caspases, lipoxygenases, and cyclooxygenases. All of these play major roles when it comes to relief from inflammation and pain. When it comes to animal studies, Bacopa monnieri showed anti-inflammatory effects which can be compared to diclofenac and indomethacin. These are two nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs that are commonly used for treating inflammation.
Treats epilepsy
For centuries, the leaves of this herb have been used to cure epilepsy. This is because of its effects on the neural pathways. This is quite useful in the prevention of epileptic fits and other forms of mental conditions like bipolar disorder and neuralgia.
Improves skin health
The brahmi leaves must be rubbed on the affected areas of the body. The released compounds may help reduce irritation, swelling, and even body inflammation. This herb is intended for people who are suffering from the following conditions: arthritis, gout, as well as other inflammatory conditions. Applying the brahma oil to the affected area may reduce the appearance of scars, allowing you to have glowing skin.
May reduce blood pressure levels
High blood pressure is a major health concern because this causes a strain on the heart and blood vessels. This may cause your heart to weaken and increase the risk of having heart disease.
May contain anti-cancer properties
Both animal and test-tube studies have discovered that Bacopa monnieri may contain anti-cancer properties. Active compounds found in Bacopa monnieri known as bacosides have been shown to eliminate aggressive brain tumor cells and also inhibit breast and colon cancer cell growth based on test-tube studies.
Helps prevent hair fall
Brahma oil is helpful to hair health. Applying brahma oil may help in treating dry scalp and prevent hair fall. Moreover, Bacopa monnieri caused the death of breast and colon cancer cells within test-tube studies. Based on research, these cancer-fighting properties are known for the high levels of antioxidants and compounds such as bacosides.
Helps treat digestive conditions
Brahmi soothes and works as a sedative herb. Since the herb is inflammatory, this may provide you relief from a lot of gastrointestinal issues like ulcers.
Brahmi is also helpful in wound healing.
