Fight Nail Fungus With Apple Cider Vinegar And Baking Soda

Nail fungus or onychomycosis is a common infection that occurs due to the excessive growth of dermatophytes or yeasts, according to this study carried out by the University of the Republic (Uruguay).

It is a very common problem in the population that, although not serious, can cause alterations in the color, texture and shape of the nails.

Its main cause is contact with polluted environments, such as floors or shoes, but it can also be caused by a weakening of the immune system and excessive sweating.

Although at first it goes unnoticed, over the days it causes the nails to acquire a yellowish hue, almost always accompanied by weakening and breakage.

Fortunately, there are several remedies and cosmetic products that, due to their properties, help eliminate the fungus before it generates other complications.

Among these we find a natural treatment of apple cider vinegar and baking soda, two antifungal ingredients that accelerate your recovery without causing unwanted side effects.

In the following space we will tell you what its benefits are and how to prepare it at home following a few very simple steps.

Apple cider vinegar and baking soda treatment against nail fungus

The apple cider vinegar and baking soda treatment is a natural option to eliminate fungi that affect the structure of the nails.

This product inhibits the growth of microorganisms,  thus preventing them from generating weakness and yellowish or dark coloration.

Although the fungus cannot be eliminated overnight, its regular use prevents them from proliferating or spreading. In the same way, we must go to the podiatrist to recommend the best treatment.

However, it is essential to complement its use with good hygiene habits, since correct cleaning is essential to alter the environment that fungi require to grow.

Benefits of apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a product obtained through the fermentation process of fruit, which allows the release of healthy bacteria and yeasts.

These not only give it its particular acid flavor, by the way, they concentrate antifungal and antibacterial properties, according to this study carried out by the Postgraduate Program in Dentistry of Sao Paulo (Brazil) .

• It contains malic acid and acetic acid, two alkaline-acting substances that help stop yeast infections.
• Its regular application alters the environment that fungi need to proliferate.
• It contains interesting amounts of bioflavoinoids, vitamins, minerals and fibers that, among other things, benefit the health of the skin.

Benefits of baking soda

Baking soda is a natural product that has been used for gastronomic, home and medicinal purposes.

• It is attributed antiseptic, alkaline and antifungal properties, as stated in this study carried out by the University of Sao Paulo (Brazil), which facilitate the control of various types of internal and external infections.
• Its topical use removes accumulated dead cells on the surface of the skin.

• It is ideal for regulating skin pH, since it reduces sweating (according to this research from New York University) and other alterations that facilitate its development.

How to make this apple cider vinegar and baking soda treatment?

The apple cider vinegar and baking soda treatment is done in two easy steps:

• First, we must apply the vinegar directly on the nails, with a cotton ball or soak.
• Then, after several minutes with the product, we will use the sodium bicarbonate to enhance the antifungal action.

Ingredients

• 6 cups of water (1.5 liters).
• ½ cup of apple cider vinegar (125 ml).
• 7 ½ tablespoons of baking soda (75 g).

Preparation

• Heat the water and, when it is at a bearable temperature for the skin, add the apple cider vinegar.
• Dip your feet into the liquid and let them rest for 15 minutes.
• After this time, dry them well and apply the baking soda using gentle exfoliating massages.

• Rub the ingredient directly on the nails and let it act for another 15 minutes.
• Rinse with lukewarm water and dry again.
• Repeat the treatment every night until the affected nails look better.

Keep in mind that although this method can eliminate fungus, the effects are not achieved with a single application.

It is essential to be constant with the treatment to subject the fungi to an acidic environment that facilitates their total elimination.