One word: fungus. Fungus thrives in dark, moist places where it can munch to its heart’s content on protein; toenails offer the perfect accommodations. And once fungus has moved in, it can take a year of prescription meds to get it out, says Dr. Nia Terezakis, a dermatologist in New Orleans. Moreover, the pills can interact poorly with other medications and occasionally even cause liver damage. Cue a home remedy. Of the many rumored antidotes—including bleach, tea tree oil, even urine—only one is backed up by a recent scientific study: Vicks VapoRub. Eighteen volunteers each applied a dab of, yes, VapoRub to an infected toenail at least once a day. A year later, study leader Lt. Col. Richard Derby tells us, about 25 percent were fungus-free. About half were partially cured. And no side effects!
One cautionary note: If you have diabetes and notice signs of a fungal infection, see your doctor right away. Fungus can be dangerous for people with reduced circulation.
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