Thursday, November 20, 2008

Using Nature's Ingredients in Killing Toenail Fungus

By N. Miley

It is not an easy task for anyone seeking a solution in killing toenail fungus. Besides, if you are successful in killing it, it may come back if you don't do it the right way.

One of the major issues with toenail fungus is that it is highly contagious and that is why you need to take certain precautions to avoid getting it in the first place. In addition to being contagious, it has the ability to live for a long time in exfoliated skin and on contaminated surfaces.

If you do manage to contract toenail fungus, you want to keep your feet clean and dry because the fungus thrives in damp, moist places, and sweaty shoes are the ideal environment for its growth. In addition to keeping on top of your foot hygiene, there are several natural ingredients that might help you in killing the fungus.

Natural Undecylenic Acid

Natural castor oil is the substance that is responsible for producing undecylenic acid. It is an organic fatty acid obtained by putting castor oil under pressure until it cracks. Castor oil is known as a natural fungicide.

Tea Tree or Melaleuca Oil

Tea Tree Oil, also known as Melaleuca Oil is extracted from the Melaleuca tree native to Australia. The oil is known for its antiseptic and antifungal properties and was often used by military troops to help fight off infections from wounds. Tea tree oil is not the same as tea oil which is used primarily for cooking.

Oil of Cloves

From the clove plant, we get another of nature's antifungal miracles called Clove Oil. It too has been shown to help in killing toenail fungus. Clove plants are generally grown in areas like Pakistan, India, and other countries in that region. - 15437

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