Most of us have experienced ingrown toenails, and we can all attest to the fact that it’s a painful, annoying, and sometimes even debilitating condition. The medical term for ingrown toenails is Onychocryptosis, and it is defined by nail growing straight into one side (or sometimes, both sides) of the bed of the nail, resulting in cuts or abrasions. In some more serious cases, the ingrown toenail results in extra tissue growth and a yellowish liquid discharge. If not treated, an ingrown toenail can also lead to infections and abscesses – sometimes even the loss of the entire toe.
What you should do to cure an ingrown toenail
Fortunately, there are some natural and home remedies for ingrown toenail which you can use in order to cure an ingrown toenail. These include hydrogen peroxide, Epsom salts, apple cider vinegar, and White Flower oil.
- Hydrogen peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide has long been used for minor cuts and scrapes, as it has disinfecting qualities. You can also use it for an ingrown toenail by mixing ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide with water and soaking your affected foot in the solution for about 20 minutes. The mixture makes the skin softer and relieves pain, and it also prevents infection.
- Epsom salts
Epsom salts, al
so referred to as magnesium sulphate, is a well-known cure for some ailments and conditions. And although there is some dispute on whether Epsom salts really works as home remedies for ingrown toenail or not, it can, at least, soften the area, allowing you to remove the toenail without too much pain and discomfort. Simply mix a heaping tablespoon of Epsom salts with water and soak the foot in the solution for approximately 20 minutes. Do this twice a day.
- Apple cider vinegar
We all know that apple cider vinegar has a wide range of uses, not only for cleaning our surroundings, but cleaning out infections and other illnesses as well. You can use apple cider vinegar for ingrown toenails by mixing it with water (as a soaking solution for the foot) or applying it directly to the affected or sore area. You can even choose to swallow a spoonful of apple cider vinegar to directly mix it with the bloodstream.
- White Flower oil
Whilst most people use White Flower oil to cure and ease headaches and other minor pains, it can also be used for ingrown toenails. The oil, which is a mix of herbal essential oils such as peppermint, lavender, and eucalyptus, can be applied directly to the problem area as well.
There are many other home remedies for ingrown toenail, such as the use of anti-bacterial soap, oregano oil, and lemons. Try at least one of these remedies, and you can benefit from an ingrown toenail cure that works for you.
