Are you seeing signs of toenail fungus? Yellowing of the nail, blackening of the nail, deformities, thickening of the nail, breaking or crumbling are all traits of nail fungus. Fungus usually starts at the tip of the nail, and drives down to the nail bed itself. In some cases removing the nail is the fastest remedy for recovery.

Begin using treatment as soon as possible. Catching the infection early on will make it easier to remove quickly. A person that has let it go for months will not be able to get rid of it as fast as someone who acts on it immediately.

Prescription medication is available, but is known to cause horrible, damaging side effects. Although, there are other alternatives that are just as effective, cost way less, not to mention they are no scary side effects.

One of the fastest, most powerful remedies for toenail fungus is a solution called tea tree oil. This oil is pulled from the leaves of a Melaleuca Alternafolia tree, mostly found in Australia. This impressive oil is widely known for it’s natural healing ability. It’s anti-bacterial/anti-fungal medication that has been used to treat minor skin infections like acne, hives, fungus, and other skin irritations.

You can purchase tea tree oil in most vitamin shops, and it’s also on the shelves of some grocery stores. This is a very inexpensive solution. A 2 ounce bottle goes a long way, and is way less than a doctors appointment. In fact, it’s even less than most over the counter medications available, too. Applying this oil is easy, and mess free.

Use a nail brush, and gently scrub your nails with soap and warm water. Let nails dry completely, before beginning treatment. Dip a cotton suave into the tea tree oil, and apply to your toenails. Rub over the top of your nails, as well as underneath the nail to help kill the fungus. Always remember to wash your hands after treatment, fungus can spread to your fingernails as well.

You must repeat this 2-3 times daily for maximum results. You may begin to notice a change in your toenail condition in as little as 3 weeks. Do not stop treatment until the fungus is completely gone.

The best way to combat against toenail fungus is to take preventative measures. Washing your feet often, with soap and warm water is a great way to start out.

Always make sure to dry your feet completely before slipping on your shoes as fungus thrives in a warm, moist atmosphere. This is why sweaty feet pose such a problem for those of us who are fighting toenail fungus.

Experts recommend air drying your shoes for at least 24 hours before wearing them again. You can do this by simply alternating between shoes. If that’s not possible try using a hair dryer to help pull the moisture out.

If you have noticed that your feet sweat excessively, you may want to consider buying real leather, or canvas shoes. This type of shoe allows your feet to breath during wear.