Fungal infections are a common occurrence. The human body is usually a habitat for fungi and bacteria. Only when the fungus and bacteria begin to multiply uncontrollably, an infection occurs. Onychomycosis is a fungal infection that occurs in the nails. Nail fungus infection usually develops over time; as a result, it may not have any symptoms in its initial stages.

Fungal infection of the nail develops due to an overgrowth of the fungi inside, under or on the nail. The fungus multiplies when exposed to warm and moist environments. Jock itch, ringworm, and athlete’s foot are different types of fungal infections that occur in humans.

Symptoms
A fungal infection of the nails may affect only a part of the nail or the entire nail. In the initial stages, the symptoms of nail fungus are not obvious. Some of the common symptoms are:

• Scaling under the nails
• Yellow or white streaks on the nail
• Flaking on the surface of the nail
• Yellow spots at the bottom of the nail
• Brittle nails
• Loss of nail
• Distorted nails that may come off the nail bed
• Odor emanating from the infected nail
• Brittle or thickened nails

Home remedies
Here are some of the best home remedies for nail fungus :

• Application of Vicks VapoRub
  This acts as a topical ointment. This is generally used for suppression of cold and cough. But a study conducted in 2011 showed that it had a positive effect on toenail fungus as well.
• Extract of snakeroot
  Snakeroot extract is an anti-fungal agent. It belongs to the sunflower family. A study showed that this extract is effective against toenail fungus.
• Tea tree oil
  Application of tea tree oil is an effective remedy against toenail fungus. This oil comes with antifungal and antiseptic properties. It can be directly applied to the affected area with a cotton swab.
• Oregano oil
  Oregano oil consists of thymol, which is an antifungal and antibacterial agent. This oil must be applied twice daily to the affected area for best results.
• Extract of olive leaf
  Oleuropein, which is found in olive leaf extract, is an effective antimicrobial, antifungal, and immune-boosting agent. Direct application of this extract or oral capsules can treat nail fungus.
• Ozonized oils
  Sunflower oil and olive oil injected with ozone gas are called ozonized oils. The application of such oils twice a day on the affected area is known to be an effective treatment.
• Garlic
  The antifungal and antimicrobial properties of garlic are known to effectively treat nail fungus. Direct application of the extract or oral capsules can be used as a treatment option.

As a measure of prevention, people who get manicure or pedicure services at salons must enquire about the cleanliness of the tools used in order to prevent the occurrence of nail fungus. Risk factors such as diabetes, weak immunity, moist toes or fingers for extended periods, and nail or skin injuries increase the chances of nail fungus.