Epsom salt does not kill toenail fungus directly. It can help soothe the affected area and reduce discomfort, but it doesn’t have antifungal properties. For toenail fungus, it’s better to use antifungal treatments prescribed by a doctor or over-the-counter options specifically designed to combat the fungus.
What Causes Toenail Fungus?
The fungi that cause toenail fungus are small organisms that grow under your nails, usually in warm, humid environments.
The fungus can spread if you wear shoes that prevent air circulation or if your feet sweat a lot. Your nails can thicken, darken, and break easier if the fungus infects your toenails. Maintaining clean, dry feet might help stop the illness from spreading.
- Toenail fungus may cause sustained dampness in socks or shoes.
- There is an increased risk while barefoot in public areas.
- Direct contact with surfaces that are affected might allow the fungi to spread.
- Unhygienic feet foster the growth of fungi.
- Infection is more likely in nails that are weak or broken.
Common Symptoms of Toenail Fungus
- Discoloration of the nail, often turning yellow, white, or brown.
- Thickened nails that become difficult to trim or manage.
- nails that are flaky or brittle, breaking or cracking readily.
- Damaged nail form, characterized by irregular or defective nail growth.
- A painful or uncomfortable separation of the nail from the nail bed.
- A unpleasant odor emanating from the nail infection.
- Discomfort or pain near the injured toenail, particularly in the shoe area.
What Is Epsom Salt?
Magnesium sulfate is another name for Epsom salt. It is a chemical compound consisting of sulfur, oxygen, and magnesium. Epsom salt is a distinct substance from table salt, despite its name. The reason why it was called “salt” was probably due to its chemical structure. You could also recognize it as “bath salt” because of its table salt-like look and common dissolution in baths. It is frequently used to relieve painful muscles and calm the skin. Epsom salt is commonly used for various domestic and gardening tasks in addition to its calming properties.
Can Epsom Salt Kill Toenail Fungus?
Epsom Salt for Toenail Fungus Relief
Toenail fungus cannot be directly eradicated using Epsom salt, but it helps alleviate symptoms. Bathing your feet with an Epsom salt solution will ease pain, soften the afflicted region, and facilitate the removal of broken or thickened nails. Throughout therapy, this might help with the general maintenance of your nails.
- Relief from Muscle Soreness and Pain.
- Reduce Inflammation.
- Improved Circulation.
- Stress Reduction and Relaxation.
- Softens nails.
Does Magnesium in Epsom Salt Help Fight Fungal Infections?
While Epsom salts might be soothing do not eradicate the fungus that is causing the sickness. Since toenail fungus is a chronic condition, antifungal therapy or medicines are often required for complete recovery. While adding Epsom salts to your routine can help other treatments, it won’t be enough to cure the illness by itself.
- No antifungal properties: Epsom salt cannot eliminate the fungi responsible for the infection.
- Complementary care: To improve comfort and care, it can be used in addition to other prescription drugs or treatments.
- Magnesium is helpful around the damaged nail, which promotes healthy skin.
How to Use Epsom Salt for Toenail Fungus?
1. Prepare the Soak
- Pour some warm water into the sink or foot bath (but not so hot that you burn yourself or cause discomfort).
- Pour the 1/2 cup Epsom salt into the water to dissolve it fully.
- Add a few drops of tea tree or lavender oil, which are known for their antifungal and relaxing properties.
2. Soak Your Feet
- Ensure that the impacted toenail is completely immersed as you bathe your feet in the Epsom salt mixture.
- Depending on how serious the fungus is and how comfortable you are, try using the bath once or twice a day for the best effects.
3. Dry Your Feet Thoroughly
- After soaking, your feet are completely dry to avoid building up moisture that might promote the growth of fungi.
- Ensure that there is no moisture trapped under or around the infected toenail by paying close attention to the surrounding regions.
4. Trim the Infected Nail
- Your nails will be softer and easier to manage after soaking, which will make trimming any thick or damaged areas.
- To avoid introducing new bacteria or spreading the fungus, always use clean, cleaned clippers.
5. Follow Up with Antifungal Treatment
- Use a topical antifungal lotion on the affected area of your nails after it has dried and been trimmed. This aids in going straight after the fungus, while the Epsom salt baths soothe and soften.
- Both Epsom salt baths and antifungal medications can be used consistently to assist in controlling symptoms and promote a quicker recovery.
FAQ
1. How does Epsom salt help with toenail fungus?
Epsom salt baths may relieve pain, soften thickened nails, and reduce edema. It helps control and maintenance of the diseased region during antifungal therapy.
2. Should I use Epsom salt with other treatments?
Yes, better outcomes may be obtained by combining Epsom salt baths with antifungal lotions or drugs. By softening the nails, the soaks help increase antifungal treatments to work.
3. How often should I soak my feet in Epsom salt for toenail fungus?
Soak your feet in Epsom salts once or twice a day if that helps you feel better. Regular treatment can improve the health of the damaged nail and help lessen symptoms.
4. Is Epsom salt a preventive measure for toenail fungus?
Even if you do not avoid toenail fungus, Epsom salt baths are an important part of excellent foot care therapy to preserve healthy nails. Frequent soaks may reduce discomfort and help keep your feet clean.