Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common condition where fingernails or toenails become infected with fungus. This can lead to discoloration, brittleness, odor, and even nail loss if left untreated. Besides using medications, you can try a natural home remedy using garlic and aloe vera – simple, effective, and safe.
Why Garlic and Aloe Vera?
- Garlic contains allicin, a natural compound with powerful antifungal properties that help kill the fungus causing nail infections.
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and soothing properties that help restore damaged nails, reduce irritation, and moisturize the surrounding skin.
Ingredients:
- 2–3 cloves of fresh garlic
- 1–2 tablespoons of fresh aloe vera gel (or pure aloe vera gel)
Instructions:
- Crush or blend the garlic into a smooth paste.
- Mix it with the aloe vera gel to form a uniform mixture.
- Clean and thoroughly dry the infected nail area.
- Use a cotton swab to apply the mixture directly to the affected nail.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes, then rinse with warm water and dry.
- Repeat 1–2 times daily for 2–3 weeks or until the nail improves.
Tips and Precautions:
- Perform a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any allergic reaction.
- Avoid applying to broken, bleeding, or infected skin around the nail.
- Keep your nails clean and dry, and avoid wearing tight or damp shoes during the treatment period.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a natural, affordable way to treat nail fungus at home, the garlic and aloe vera remedy is worth trying. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a dermatologist for professional treatment.
