The medical terminology for nail fungus is ornychomycosis. Medication through a doctor is available to treat this condition, which can get much worse if not taken care soon enough. However, many people do not want prescription medication because there are certain side-effects related to it such as liver damage. People who do not want to take prescribed medications to treat toenail fungus usually handle the problem with over the counter solutions or home remedies.

The fungus that attacks toenails is known as dermathophytes. Starting with discoloration of the nail and progressing to yellowing, thickening, dis-figuration of the nails, and later crumbling and loosing the nail, this condition must be addressed soon so it does not spread to other nails. In addition, it is contagious and you do not want to pass it to someone else. The condition may also be hereditary.

Some home remedies that help get rid of the infection are bleach soaking, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, Listerine antiseptic, tea tree oil and olive oil, tea tree oil and lavender oil, oregano and olive oil - these are some common cures with household products. Alpha Hidroxy Acid creams are recommended at night, as they will help exfoliate the skin, so you can treat the nail during the day.

Treatment with tea tree oil will require mixing equal parts of tea tree oil, olive oil, and thyme and making a paste. This paste should be rubbed onto the nail and scrub well so it reaches deep into the nail. Leave for 15 minutes and rinse. Dry the nail very well. This treatment must be done daily until the infection goes away.

Using Listerine mouthwash and equal parts of apple cider vinegar is another home remedy for toenail fungus. It should be applied with a soaked cotton ball and leave wrapped for 20-45 minutes, rinse and dry well your feet. Repeat daily as needed.

Other precautions to take are cleaning feet after being on a public place such as pool, and not sharing towels with people who have the condition. Nails should be kept short and trimmed, and nail polish should be avoided until the infection heals. In addition, you must wear clean socks, and keep your feet dry so moisture does not continue to encourage fungus growth. Shoes should be dry and clean, and disinfected as well.

A diet that includes probiotics, such as the ones found in yogurt can help get rid of bacteria and infections. In addition, olive oil extract supplements may help as well, as this is an anti-fungal agent. Reduction of sugars, dairy, and carbohydrates that are highly refined and processed is recommended as this contributes to the growth of fungus.

If over the counter products and home remedies do not help your condition, it is important to visit your doctor and get treated with prescription drugs to eliminate the problem. Laser treatments are also available and are very effective in getting rid of toenail fungus.