Fungal toenails are a common infection of the feet. Often starting in one toenail, they are contagious and can spread to several others. Conventional treatment involves the use of powerful antifungal drugs which are effective though people may experience unpleasant side effects such as an upset stomach and skin eruptions.

A fungal nail infection is unfortunately difficult to treat because although the infection arises at the nail bed initially, this can spread within the nail which is difficult to reach.

Common symptoms of fungal nail infections

Some of the symptoms of fungal toenails include discolouration of the toenail often dark brown or black, irregular shaped nails and discharge from the nail bed. The toenail receives little blood supply and grows slowly, so often antibiotics and fungal toenail treatments only reach the infected site in small quantities, making the treatment slow and difficult to eradicate. Re-infections often happen because antibiotic resistance occurs due to prolonged use.

Fungal toenails treatment

Fungal toenail infections are often very difficult to treat. Fungal nail treatment usually involved both internal medications and topical products. If you wish to avoid potent antifungals possibly with side effects, then internally, I would recommend the use of Clove and Oregano Complex by Viridian Nutrition. Clove buds contain volatile oils which display powerful antifungal properties whilst Oregano leaf contains carvacrol and thymol which display antibacterial, anti-fungal and antimicrobial properties.

In terms of treating fungal nail infections topically, there are plenty of remedies on the market but it does take time and perseverance. The most common fungal toenail treatments such as anti-fungal creams and spray tend to contain tea tree oil. Tea tree oil does display anti-fungal properties however toenail infections as mentioned earlier are difficult to eradicate. I recommend Fulvic Nail Cream as this contains fulvic acid which is also a potent anti-fungal compound and unlike most topical creams, Fulvic Nail Cream also contains Vitamin B7, also known as biotin, to help condition, strength and regrowth of nails.

How to prevent fungal nail infections

While Margaret Dabbs Nourishing Nail and Cuticle Serum won’t get rid of infections, it is a good preventative measure. Apply the serum once a day, before you go to bed, to help to hydrate and strengthen the area and promote healthy feet.

If you spend a lot of time barefoot and regularly battle with fungal nail infections, verrucas or athlete’s foot, Margaret Dabbs Foot Cooling and Cleansing Spray might be a good idea. The lightweight, non-greasy spray is like an invisible soak that prevents infection. 

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