Various treatments are being developed to cure toenail fungus. Some home remedies such as Vicks VapoRub and apple cider vinegar, have been believed to cure fungal nail infections. However, there is still little available scientific evidence that proves that natural remedies are effective in treating problems of nail. Recent studies have more often examined about the medical treatment, especially treatment with oral medication. Despite treatment with oral antifungal have effective enough to eradicate the fungus, the treatment has systemic effects and side effects which are pretty scary. Journals published by the American Board of Family Medicine, January issue, proving that home remedies are quite effective and satisfactory in treating nail fungus. They studied about Vicks VapoRub cure for nail fungus.

Eighteen participants were included in the study to prove the effectiveness of Vicks VapoRub in curing nail fungus. How do researchers to prove the effectiveness of these home remedies? The participants were followed at intervals of 4, 8, 12, 24, 36, and 48 weeks. Prior to treatment with Vicks VapoRub, taken digitally photographs to document the patient’s nail condition prior to treatment. Then, digital photographs were also taken every routine patient’s visit. Results of treatment judged on two aspects of the assessment, they are mycologis examination at week 48 and clinical assessment based on digital photographs. In addition to the success of treatment, the researchers also assessed patient satisfaction. These aspects can be assessed based on the questionare.

How do these findings? The researchers were not in vain in conducting research because of Vicks VapoRub really gives new hope as a cure for toenail fungus. More than eighty percent of the patients showed good results of treatments. Five patients showed good recovery in mycologycal examination and clinical assessment. Ten patients experienced marked improvement of clinical symptoms by reducing the area of infection seen from digital photographs. In addition, all patients also quite satisfied with the results of this treatment. Nine people said it was satisfied and the rest said it was very satisfied. The study showed that Vicks VapoRub is useful in treating toenail fungus.

Source:

Derby R, Rohal P, Jackson C, Beutler A, Olsen C. 2011. Novel treatment of onychomycosis using over-the-counter mentholated ointment: a clinical case series. J Am Board Fam Med 24(1):69-74. [PubMed]