Nails are simply a hard material made up of tough protein, which covers our finger tips and toes. The major role of nail in the body is to increase the sensitivity of finger tips and protecting the delicate tissue on the tips. An average rate of nail’s growth is 3mm per month, however, it may vary from person to person. But nails have been always treated as more than just a protective surface on our finger tips.
They have become an object of beauty and art. Numerous manicures and nail art parlours have sprung up to take care of nails and create incredible paint art on them! However, nail infection can play a spoil sport in up keeping of your nails. The common symptoms of nail infection are discoloration, pus formation under the nail, painful finger tips and thickening of nails. Let us discuss some very effective natural cures that can help you clear this infection.
Natural Cures For Nail Infection
Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe Vera is an anti-microbial herb. It not only fights and destroys the infection causing fungus and bacteria, but also soothes and moisturises the infected area . The best property of Aloe Vera is that it is devoid of colour and fragrance which makes it ideal for long duration applications.You can extract the Aloe Vera gel by cutting through a sprig and store it in a small jar. It will remain fresh for a day. Apply it 7-8 times in a day on the nail and skin around it for as many days as required.
Bitter Neem
Neem works as a wonder remedy on the infections. It is anti-fungal in nature and easily available. There are multiple ways in which it can be used to fight infection. You can prepare a hand wash by boiling a bunch of neem leaves. Every time you have to clean your hand, just use this neem water as an after wash.
A paste made up of neem leaves crushed with some water will also help alleviate the infection. Apply on the nails and let it dry for about 15-20 minutes and wash off. Best remedy in terms of usage is neem oil. You can apply a thin layer on the nails about twice a day for relief.
Vinegar
Vinegar is a great cleanser and anti-fungal agent. Dilute two parts vinegar with one part of water. Application of this solution will work firstly by clearing off the dead tissue on the nail This approach especially works if you find thickening of nail due to infection.Many studies have shown that using diluted vinegar with diluted Hydrogen peroxide can increase the potency of vinegar manifold. People have been known to choose apple cider vinegar for clearing off the infections over other vinegars.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is anti-fungal and has various remedial qualities including warding off infections. However, using undiluted tea tree oil is not advised as it is a very strong oil which can cause burning sensation if used in its pure form. You can dilute it with equal part lavender or coconut oil. Apply it on your nails and see the infection disappearing in a few weeks.
Yoghurt
Yoghurt is a pro-biotic agent and therefore, very effective in controlling fungal infection. The good bacterium eats away at fungus thereby destroying it.Unadulterated curd or yoghurt is best for this treatment. Apply it on the nails and let it dry for about 40-45 minutes. Wash off with plain water. Do not use soap or hand wash.
Mustard Oil
This is anti-microbial oil which has intense moisturising benefits. Application of this oil can leave a slight yellow tinge but it is temporary. For the best results try applying this oil with some lemon.
Lemon is a strong cleanser and it also has brightening properties. This treatment will clean the nail of its dead layer, moisturise it, alleviate the infection and make your nails look beautiful.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.