Epsom Salt and Apple Cider Vinegar for Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail, also known as “onyochocrytosis”, is a painful disease in which the nail grows cutting the nail bed. This nail condition is usually found in those people who wear shoes for a long time on a regular basis. What is actually happening? A pointed or sharp nail digs inside the nail bed, resulting in inflammation and pain and a discharge of yellow fluid and growth of extra tissue on the toe. This nail disease can lead to complications like abscess, infection or even losing a limb. Luckily, there are a few natural remedies that can help you cure this disease.

• Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a powerful disinfectant that helps the skin around the ingrown toenail to get softer. It prevents further infection and makes it less painful. Just mix half a cup of hydrogen peroxide in water and soak your feet in the mixture for about 20 minutes. It will relieve your pain in an instant. Also, you can apply hydrogen peroxide directly on the toenail. However, the doctors don’t recommend the last method because they believe it may rupture the healthy issues of the skin.

• White Flower Oil

Despite its name, this Chinese healing oil is obtained from a mixture of several herbal oils like peppermint, eucalyptus and lavender oil. If you apply a few drops on the ingrown toenail, the oil will help you get rid of the annoying pain. Don’t consume this oil and keep it away from the nose, eyes and mouth. The oil must be applied on the area nearby the wound, not directly on it.

• Epsom Salt

Magnesium sulphate, popularly known as Epsom salt, can be used as a treatment for many conditions. Epsom salt can work for an ingrown nail pretty well. It softens the affected area, making it easier to draw out the nail from the skin. Just add a large heap of salt in warm water and soak your feet in it for almost 20 minutes. Repeat the procedure twice a day and you will observe its amazing effects.

• Apple Cider Vinegar

Known as an infallible treatment for many diseases, apple cider vinegar is also helpful when it comes to ingrown toenails. Add a few tablespoons of vinegar in water and soak your feet in it or apply it directly on the affected area. You can also try to ingest the vinegar as it blends into the blood stream. To make it easier to swallow, add some honey.

• Oregano Essential Oil

Oregano oil is known for its palliative, antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which provide a quick relief from pain. Apply a mix of oregano oil and olive oil three times a day directly on the toenail. Also, adults can ingest the oregano essential oil by adding a few drops in juice or water, or by simply putting a few drops under the tongue.

All these natural remedies are effective but we highly recommend you visit a specialist first to decrease the risk of an eventual amputation of the toe.