Fungal infections can live on the dead tissues of the hair, nails 
and outer skin levels. The presence of this common condition on 
the toenails, also known also as onychomycosis, accounts for 
nearly half of all such fungal nail disorders and can become 
quite painful if not successfully treated. Beginning as a light 
colored spot under the tip of the toenail, this fungus will 
initially cause the nails to lose their natural luster. As it 
continues to spread, the entire toenail will appear thick and 
distorted. The toenail may also become discolored, often first 
turning yellow as the edges begin to crumble. If no treatment 
is given to destroy the fungus, the condition will worsen and 
eventually the color may become green, brown, or black and may 
emit a foul odor. At this point the nail may become completely 
detached from the toe and fall away, causing ongoing discomfort 
and even pain.

Although there are many prescription and over the counter 
medications used to fight nail fungus, it is best to chose 
a natural remedy that is both safe and effective. One such 
treatment is the rainforest herb pau d'arco. Also known as 
lapacho colorado, the bark of the pau d'arco tree has been used 
for hundreds of years in its native South America. This enormous 
canopy tree grows to nearly 100 feet high and can have a trunk 
up to 10 feet in diameter. The wood from this tree is used for a 
multitude of purposes, including the construction of houses and 
boats.

Indigenous groups in Argentina and Paraguay have long known of 
medicinal value of pau d'arco and its ability to fight infections 
such as ringworm and yeast infections. This antibacterial and 
anti-fungal herb was reportedly used extensively by the Incas to 
fight a number of health problems and has been proven effective 
for internal problems such as fever, dysentery and intestinal 
problems. In its native countries, it was also widely respected 
for its use as an anti-inflammatory.  Not only has this herb been 
used to effectively combat parasites and Candida, it has also 
shown great ability to destroy harmful fungus. It is the latter 
of these properties that makes it useful in the treatment of the 
unsightly condition of toenail fungus.

When using this course of treatment for toenail fungus, it is 
wise to carefully choose which brand of pau d'arco you will use. 
There are many products that claim to be effective, but which 
lack the appropriate amount of the active ingredient of lapachol 
needed to successfully fight toenail fungus. The safest bet is to 
seek out the standardized extracts of pau d'arco to ensure that 
you are getting a quality product.  Spagyric formulas are 
concentrated and highly effective as well.  Although these 
extracts may be somewhat more expensive that others, it is 
certainly worth it to know you are purchasing a product that 
will genuinely relieve you of your toenail fungus.

Because pau d'arco is not soluble in water it is ineffective 
if used in a hand soak or if ingested in a tea, although it 
is generally marketed as a tea in the United States. To treat 
toenail fungus with pau d'arco, it is best used externally in 
the form of pau d'arco oil or internally in an alcohol based 
tincture. Rub a small amount of the oil on the affected area 
several times per day.  It is also available in capsule form; 
however, it is necessary to carefully monitor the ingestion of 
this powerful herb as high doses may case side effects such as 
nausea and abdominal upset.

When used as a topical toenail fungus treatment, it should be 
done two to three times daily. Internal formulas should be used 2 
times a day.  It is essential to complete this therapy daily for 
four to six months. Even as the fungus dies and the nail begins 
to clear it is vital to continue the treatment until the infected 
portion of the toenail has completely grown out. Once the fungus 
has been cured and the toenail is completely healthy, it is vital 
to take steps to ensure that the fungus does not return. If you 
typically have your toenails done at a salon, be sure that it is 
a reputable one that understands the importance of sterilizing 
all manicure equipment. It also may be necessary to discontinue 
using toenail polish as it can trap moisture under the polish and 
encourage the growth of fungus. Keeping toenails clean and 
trimmed is important because fungus can make a home under the 
excess exposed toenail. Wear socks that allow the feet to 
breathe, such as those made from natural fibers like cotton. 
Throw away all old socks and replace as many shoes as possible 
to avoid re-infection of the nails.  If you have exceptionally 
sweaty feet, give them ample time to dry out during the day, 
if possible.  

Dr. Jonathan N. Group, B.S., R.D., D.C. is a Doctor of 
Chiropractic, Registered Dietitian and Independent Research 
Scientist. He has over 15 years of educational and research 
experience in health care focusing in clinical nutrition, 
alternative medicine, chiropractic, fitness, health and wellness.
 Dr. Group is currently the Chief Executive Officer of Fungus 
Research, L.L.C. and heads the research and development team 
dedicated to producing advanced, new anti-fungal and 
anti-microbial products. http://www.nail-fungus-toenail.com