Nail fungal infections are common, and this infection may happen to anyone. This type of infection may not be serious, but it can be challenging to treat. It is said that about 10 percent of the population has nail fungal infections. The question remains: how do we get them?
A nail fungal infection is medically known as onychomycosis. It is a fungal infection that affects the nail plate and the nail bed, which often appears as a yellowish, black, green, white, or brown discoloration of the nail. The infected nail may appear brittle, thickened, and crumbly. In severe infections, the nail may break into pieces and fall off.
Nail fungus infections typically don’t heal on their own without resorting to a nail fungus treatment. The fungus may spread to other parts of the hands and feet. The infection may range from mild with only cosmetic implications to more severe and cause pain and discomfort.
Toenails are more prone to this infection than fingernails. This is because they take time to grow and they are more exposed to a warm and moist environment inside the shoes.
Causes and Symptoms
Nail fungal infections are often brought about by different kinds of fungi, yeasts, and molds. Fingernail fungal infections are often caused by yeast fungi, particularly Candida. Fungal nail infections are common among older male adults who suffer from chronic conditions like diabetes and circulation issues. Those who frequent public places that are often damp like swimming pools and shower rooms are more prone to it. It’s the same thing with those who frequent nail salons.
Treatment
A nail fungus treatment depends on the microorganism that caused the infection as well as its level of severity. For severe cases, the doctor may prescribe oral antifungals like fluconazole, terbinafine, and griseofulvin. An alternative nail fungal treatment may also be advised by the doctor in the form of nail lacquer, cream, or ointment. Sometimes the doctor may recommend a combination of the two.
1All about the Yellow Dock
Yellow dock (scientific name Rumex crispus) is a popular perennial herb that belongs to the Polygonaceae family, which is commonly referred to as knotweed family. This family includes the following: sorrel, rhubarb, and buckwheat. Other common names of this plant are the following: curled dock, narrow dock, curly dock, rumex, Chin-ch’iao-mai, garden patience, and sour dock. Its rhizomes and roots are often used medicinally.
Yellow dock was one of the highly respected medicinal herbs that go back to the 1700s. It is considered a tonic, laxative, diuretic, cleanser, and digestive herb. It is often considered a problematic weed. It is usually found in many open spaces where the soil is frequently turned into roads, fields, dumps, and ditches.
Curly dock is native to Europe, but it can now be found around the world today including the Arctic Circle and all continents. This is considered a weed in more than 40 countries, which is why it is one of the world’s most prevalent non-cultivated colonizing weeds.
Traditional Uses
Yellow dock, particularly its tap root, has a long history of a traditional application. Since the time of Hippocrates, it has been used to help with digestion, liver health, and poor absorption of nutrients, and also as an overall tonic herb. Before antibiotics were invented, yellow dock root was made part of many herbal preparations that were used for treating various ailments. This is mainly because of the believed blood-cleansing properties of the herb and how it can invigorate the body.
As an Antifungal and Antimicrobial
Different extracts from the yellow dock were investigated for their antibacterial properties. The roots were screened for their effects on eight Gram-positive and negative bacteria which include Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Proteus vulgaris, Escherichia coli, Serratia marcescens, Salmonella typhimurium, and Klebsiella pneumoniae compared to the regular antibiotics. All the extracts exhibited a significant impact against the tested pathogenic microorganisms.
Another comparison lab study also showed that yellow dock extracts from the leaves and roots have antifungal, antibacterial, and antiparasitic effects. It must also be noted that the root extracts are known to be more effective than the leaf extracts. Another lab study also revealed that the yellow dock extract works as a tonic for the common parasite tapeworm.
Other Health Benefits
Yellow dock is a useful herb even in modern life. It supports stage 2 liver detoxification and it helps support healthy digestion, a highly diverse microbiome, and much more. Yellow dock has a unique mix of biological compounds like minerals, anthraquinones, tannins, inulin, and minerals that when combined may support overall health. Here are some other benefits of this herb:
Treats Anemia
Research has proven that the yellow dock root may heal anemia. It is also known as an herb that can cleanse one’s blood and strengthens the immune system. Those who want to use the yellow dock as an anemia treatment may simmer it as tea.
Treats Fever
Yellow dock is known as a rich source of vitamin A, phosphorous, and manganese. It is known as an effective remedy against fever and also as an appetite suppressant. Yellow dock may be used as a daily beverage for preventing a fever.
Treats Skin Conditions
Skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, age spots, and rashes can be treated using the roots of yellow dock. Treatment can be done by dipping a cotton ball in it and applying it directly to the face or an acne breakout. Applying the yellow dock extract to the face gives off a good smell. It is also used as a daily facial cleanser.
Treats Arthritis and Rheumatism
Yellow dock as a tea may help in reducing pain caused by arthritis and rheumatism. This is due to its anti-inflammatory properties. For those who suffer from arthritis and rheumatism, yellow dock leaves or roots may be consumed as a tea to reduce the pain caused by the ailments.
Precautions
It is critical that you don’t overdose on yellow dock since this may lead to nausea, stomach cramps, and diarrhea. Follow the recommended dosage. This is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women as well. If you are taking prescription medications, it is a must to consult with the doctor first before taking yellow dock.
