Ask Ayurveda

/
/
/
How to Treat Fungus on my toes?
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7
Connect with Ayurvedic doctors 24/7. Ask anything, get expert help today.
General Medicine
Question #38
314 days ago
649

How to Treat Fungus on my toes? - #38

Kavya

I do running very much, I love it! But now I have big problem with fungus on my toes. This fungus make my toenails look very ugly and it hurt a little. I try many things like creams and special powder, but no help at all. I even stop running for few weeks to see if it get better, but it only get worse. I read that Ayurveda have many natural treatments. Can you give me advice what to do for my fungus? Maybe some herbs or oils can help? I really want my toes to be healthy again so I can run without problem.

300 INR (~3.51 USD)
Question is closed
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic Doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous
Get expert answers anytime,
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.
CTA image

Doctors’ responses

Dear Rajesh, Do you sweat a lot? May be sweating during your runs and enclosed feet is causing the issue. Try resting till the issue is resolved completely. Ayurvedic treatment for fungal infections on the foot, such as athlete’s foot, emphasizes restoring balance, promoting healing, and preventing recurrence. Here are some effective approaches:

1. Dietary Recommendations Anti-inflammatory Foods: Incorporate foods that reduce inflammation, such as turmeric, ginger, garlic, and green leafy vegetables. Avoid Sugary and Processed Foods: Limit sugar and processed foods that can promote fungal growth. 2. Herbal Remedies Neem: Known for its antifungal properties, neem can be used as a topical paste or infused in oil for application. Turmeric: A paste made from turmeric powder and water can be applied to the affected area to reduce inflammation and fight infection. Coconut Oil: Apply virgin coconut oil, which has antifungal properties and helps moisturize the skin. Tea Tree Oil: Dilute tea tree oil in a carrier oil and apply to the affected area to help combat fungi. 3. Topical Treatments Aloe Vera Gel: Applying fresh aloe vera gel can soothe irritated skin and has antifungal properties. Herbal Powders: Use powders like kalonji (black seed) or besan (gram flour) mixed with water as a paste on the affected area. 4. Foot Hygiene Keep Feet Dry: Ensure feet are clean and dry, especially between the toes, as moisture promotes fungal growth. Natural Foot Soaks: Soak feet in warm water with added neem leaves or salt to help cleanse and soothe the skin. 5. Panchakarma Consider detoxification treatments like Virechana or other cleansing procedures under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner to help eliminate toxins from the body. 6. Lifestyle Modifications Footwear: Wear breathable shoes and moisture-wicking socks to prevent excessive sweating. Regular Change: Change socks regularly and avoid walking barefoot in public areas to reduce exposure. 7. Consultation Seek advice from a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for a tailored treatment plan and to address any underlying imbalances. Final Note If the infection persists or worsens, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment. Consistency in hygiene and treatment is key to overcoming fungal infections.

11913 answered questions
78% best answers
Accepted response

0 replies
Dr. Harsha Joy
Dr. Harsha Joy is a renowned Ayurvedic practitioner with a wealth of expertise in lifestyle consultation, skin and hair care, gynecology, and infertility treatments. With years of experience, she is dedicated to helping individuals achieve optimal health through a balanced approach rooted in Ayurveda's time-tested principles. Dr. Harsha has a unique ability to connect with her patients, offering personalized care plans that cater to individual needs, whether addressing hormonal imbalances, fertility concerns, or chronic skin and hair conditions. In addition to her clinical practice, Dr. Harsha is a core content creator in the field of Ayurveda, contributing extensively to educational platforms and medical literature. She is passionate about making Ayurvedic wisdom accessible to a broader audience, combining ancient knowledge with modern advancements to empower her clients on their wellness journeys. Her areas of interest include promoting women's health, managing lifestyle disorders, and addressing the root causes of skin and hair issues through natural, non-invasive therapies. Dr. Harsha’s holistic approach focuses on not just treating symptoms but addressing the underlying causes of imbalances, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting results. Her warm and empathetic nature, coupled with her deep expertise, has made her a sought-after consultant for those looking for natural, effective solutions to improve their quality of life. Whether you're seeking to enhance fertility, rejuvenate your skin and hair, or improve overall well-being, Dr. Harsha Joy offers a compassionate and knowledgeable pathway to achieving your health goals.
309 days ago
4.83

In Ayurveda, fungal infections like toenail fungus are often related to an imbalance in Kapha and Rakta (blood), which can lead to moisture accumulation and poor circulation, creating an environment for fungal growth. To manage this condition, Ayurvedic remedies focus on purifying the blood, drying the excess moisture, and preventing the fungus from spreading. Herbal treatments like neem (Azadirachta indica) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) are well known for their antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. You can apply a paste made from neem powder mixed with water directly onto the affected toenails, as neem helps fight infections and promote healing. Turmeric paste, made by mixing turmeric powder with water or coconut oil, can also be applied to the infected nails to reduce inflammation and fight the fungus. Another useful remedy is tea tree oil, which has strong antifungal properties. You can dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply it to the affected area daily. In addition to topical treatments, you should follow a Kapha-pacifying diet, which includes light, warm, and dry foods like barley, millet, and cooked vegetables. Avoid heavy, greasy, or excessively sweet foods, as they can aggravate Kapha and contribute to fungal growth. To keep the toes dry and prevent further fungal infection, wear breathable footwear and avoid moisture buildup. Regular foot baths with warm water infused with neem leaves or turmeric can further help disinfect and cleanse the toes. Along with these remedies, maintaining good hygiene and keeping the feet dry is essential for faster recovery.

13739 answered questions
68% best answers

0 replies

Ah, toenail fungus can be such a nuisance, especially for a dedicated runner like yourself. You want to get back to running without those pesky toe issues, I get it. In Ayurveda, we believe that such fungal infections could be related to an imbalance in the Kapha dosha, often influenced by dampness and toxins accumulating in the body.

First things first, tea tree oil—it’s like the go-to in such cases. You could try applying it directly to your toenails. Just dab a drop with a cotton ball, twice a day. It’s known for its antifungal properties, so it might give your toes a break from this misery. Same goes for neem oil, which is another strong ally. Again, just a couple of times a day should do.

Now, let’s not forget about a powerful herb, turmeric, which works wonders as an internal cleanser for your system. Maybe try a pinch of turmeric powder mixed with warm water in the morning. See if that helps. But be cautious, too much turmeric might cause some digestive upset, so just a pinch is good.

Suppose you want to dial down that internal fungus breeding ground; consider having foods that pacify Kapha, like light and dry foods. Think along the lines of steamed vegetables, and maybe skip heavy, oily, and sugary foods. They’re not really your friends right now.

Meanwhile, keeping your feet dry is crucial. Swap those tight-fitting shoes for something openly breathable when you’re not running. And change your socks regularly because you don’t want that moisture sticking around any longer than necessary.

If you’re into foot soaks, a warm saltwater soak with a tad of apple cider vinegar could help too. Maybe sit back with that soak once a day, it might make your nails feel and look a bit better.

But look, if it still doesn’t get better or starts hurting a lot, you should definitely have a doc check it out. Sometimes things need another pair of eyes! But let’s hope these remedies get you back to running in no time. 👍

1742 answered questions
27% best answers

0 replies
Speech bubble
FREE! Ask an Ayurvedic doctor — 24/7,
100% Anonymous

600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.

About our doctors

Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.


Related questions

Doctors online

Dr. Narendrakumar V Mishra
I have been practicing as a Consulting Ayurvedic Physician since 1990, with over three decades of clinical experience in treating a wide range of chronic and lifestyle-related health conditions. My core areas of focus include hair disorders, skin diseases, and lifestyle disorders such as diabetes, arthritis, and stress-related imbalances. Over the years, I have developed a patient-centric approach that emphasizes deep-rooted healing through authentic Ayurvedic principles. My treatment philosophy is based on understanding the unique constitution (prakriti) and imbalance (vikriti) of each patient, allowing me to craft individualized care plans using classical formulations, diet corrections, detox therapies (shodhana), and lifestyle modifications. Whether it’s persistent hair fall, recurring skin allergies, or long-term metabolic disorders, I aim to address the root cause rather than just suppress symptoms. In the management of lifestyle disorders like diabetes and arthritis, I integrate Ayurvedic medicines with structured dinacharya (daily routines) and ahar (dietary guidance), focusing on sustainable results and long-term wellness. I also work extensively with stress-related concerns, offering holistic strategies that incorporate mind-body practices, including meditation, herbal support, and counseling rooted in Ayurveda. With a strong foundation in traditional Ayurvedic texts and decades of hands-on experience, I remain committed to providing safe, natural, and effective healthcare solutions. My goal is to guide patients toward a balanced life, free from chronic ailments, through personalized treatment protocols that restore harmony to both body and mind.
5
359 reviews
Dr. Keerthana PV
I am a passionate and responsible Ayurvedic doctor, having completed my internship at the renowned VPSV Ayurveda College, Kottakkal, Kerala. My clinical journey has been shaped by the rich traditions of Kerala Ayurveda, where I gained extensive hands-on experience in diagnosing and treating patients with authentic Ayurvedic therapies. I am dedicated to delivering personalized and holistic healthcare, with a focus on preventive medicine and positive lifestyle modification. I actively counsel my patients on achieving optimal health through balanced diet, daily regimen, stress management, and natural therapies. Additionally, I am a certified Smrithi Meditation Consultant from the Kottakkal Ayurveda School of Excellence, which allows me to integrate meditation and mindfulness techniques into my treatment protocols, promoting mental well-being along with physical health. My approach is rooted in compassion, responsibility, and a commitment to empowering patients on their journey towards complete wellness.
5
97 reviews
Dr. Snehal Vidhate
I am Dr. Snehal Vidhate, an Ayurvedic physician from Maharashtra, committed to promoting authentic and effective Ayurvedic healing. I completed my BAMS from YMT Ayurvedic Medical College, Kharghar, where I built a strong foundation in classical Ayurvedic science. After graduation, I was fortunate to be selected for the prestigious Certificate Course of Rashtriya Ayurveda Vidyapeeth, Delhi. Through this program, I had the unique opportunity to learn traditional and authentic Kerala Ayurveda under the mentorship of my Guru, Prof. Dr. G.G. Gangadharan, a highly respected name in the field. Currently, I am pursuing my MD in Panchakarma from the renowned Shri Dharmasthala Manjunatheshwara (SDM) Ayurveda College, Bangalore. This advanced training is enhancing my understanding of specialized Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapies, allowing me to integrate classical Panchakarma techniques into modern clinical practice effectively. My clinical approach combines deep-rooted traditional knowledge with scientific understanding to offer personalized care for a variety of chronic and lifestyle disorders. I am passionate about utilizing Ayurveda not just for disease management but also for preventive healthcare and wellness promotion. I am dedicated to helping my patients achieve sustainable health by addressing the root cause of ailments through holistic treatments, Panchakarma therapies, lifestyle counseling, and dietetics.
5
40 reviews
Dr. Surya Bhagwati
I am a Senior Ayurveda Physician with over 28 years of clinical experience dedicated to the principles and practice of authentic Ayurvedic medicine. Throughout my journey, I have had the privilege of treating more than 100,000 patients through both in-person consultations and online platforms. My approach is deeply rooted in classical Ayurvedic diagnostics—such as Nadi Pariksha (pulse examination), Roga-Rogi Pariksha (patient and disease evaluation), and a personalized assessment of prakriti (body constitution). Over the years, I have successfully managed a wide range of health conditions across all age groups—from acute infections and digestive issues to chronic and lifestyle disorders such as arthritis, diabetes, respiratory ailments, hormonal imbalances, and autoimmune conditions. I place strong emphasis on individualized care, combining herbal formulations, Panchakarma detox therapies, and dietary and lifestyle guidance to ensure long-term healing and disease prevention. My extensive experience also includes addressing complex, chronic illnesses that require a deep understanding of both the pathology and the patient’s overall constitution. I have worked with patients who had previously struggled with little success in other systems of medicine, and have guided many toward sustainable recovery and improved quality of life. Whether treating elderly patients with degenerative disorders or young adults facing hormonal or metabolic challenges, I strive to offer care that is compassionate, comprehensive, and evidence-informed. My goal is to empower patients with Ayurvedic wisdom so they can take an active role in their healing journey. I continue to remain updated with the evolving landscape of integrative health and value the importance of patient education, ethical practice, and consistent follow-up. For me, Ayurveda is not just a profession, but a lifelong commitment to restoring balance and promoting well-being, one patient at a time.
5
291 reviews
Dr. Anirudh Deshmukh
I am Dr Anurag Sharma, done with BAMS and also PGDHCM from IMS BHU, which honestly shaped a lot of how I approach things now in clinic. Working as a physician and also as an anorectal surgeon, I’ve got around 2 to 3 years of solid experience—tho like, every day still teaches me something new. I mainly focus on anorectal care (like piles, fissure, fistula stuff), plus I work with chronic pain cases too. Pain management is something I feel really invested in—seeing someone walk in barely managing and then leave with actual relief, that hits different. I’m not really the fancy talk type, but I try to keep my patients super informed, not just hand out meds n move on. Each case needs a bit of thinking—some need Ksharasutra or minor para surgical stuff, while others are just lifestyle tweaks and herbal meds. I like mixing the Ayurved principles with modern insights when I can, coz both sides got value really. It’s like—knowing when to go gentle and when to be precise. Right now I’m working hard on getting even better with surgical skills, but also want to help people get to me before surgery's the only option. Had few complicated cases where patience n consistency paid off—no shortcuts but yeah, worth it. The whole point for me is to actually listen first, like proper listen. People talk about symptoms but also say what they feel—and that helps in understanding more than any lab report sometimes. I just want to stay grounded in my work, and keep growing while doing what I can to make someone's pain bit less every day.
0 reviews
Dr. Prasad Pentakota
ChatGPT said: I am Dr. P. Prasad, and I’ve been in this field for 20+ years now, working kinda across the board—General Medicine, Neurology, Dermatology, Cardiology—you name it. Didn’t start out thinking I’d end up spanning that wide, but over time, each area sort of pulled me in deeper. And honestly, I like that mix. It lets me look at a patient not just through one lens but a whole system-wide view... makes more sense when treating something that won’t fit neatly in one category. I’ve handled everything from day-to-day stuff like hypertension, diabetes, or skin infections to more serious neuro and cardiac problems. Some cases are quick—diagnose, treat, done. Others take time, repeated check-ins, figuring out what’s really going on beneath those usual symptoms. And that’s where the detail matters. I’m pretty big on thorough diagnosis and patient education—because half the problem is ppl just not knowing what’s happening inside their own body. What’s changed for me over years isn’t just knowledge, it’s how much I lean on listening. If you miss what someone didn’t say, you might also miss their actual illness. And idk, after seeing it play out so many times, I do believe combining updated medical practice with basic empathy really shifts outcomes. Doesn’t have to be complicated... it just has to be consistent. I keep up with research too—new drugs, diagnostics, cross-specialty updates etc., not because it’s trendy, but cuz it’s necessary. Patients come in better read now than ever. You can’t afford to fall behind. The end goal’s the same tho—help them heal right, not just fast. Ethical practice, evidence-based, and sometimes just being there to explain what’s going on. That’s what I stick to.
5
267 reviews
Dr. Ayush Varma
Graduating with an MD in Ayurvedic Medicine from the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in 2008, he brings over 15 years of expertise in integrative healthcare. Specializing in complex chronic conditions, including autoimmune disorders, metabolic syndromes, and digestive health, he uses a patient-centered approach that focuses on root causes. Certified in Panchakarma Therapy and Rasayana (rejuvenation), he is known for combining traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern diagnostics. Actively involved in research, he has contributed to studies on Ayurveda’s role in managing diabetes, stress, and immunity. A sought-after speaker at wellness conferences, he practices at a reputable Ayurvedic wellness center, dedicated to advancing Ayurveda’s role in holistic health and preventive care.
4.95
20 reviews
Dr. Maitri Bhavesh Kumar Acharya
ChatGPT said: I am Dr. Maitri, currently in my 2nd year of MD in Dravyaguna, and yeah, I run my own Ayurvedic clinic in Ranoli where I’ve been seeing patients for 2 years now. Honestly, what pulled me into this path deeper is how powerful herbs really are—when used right. Not just randomly mixing churnas but actually understanding their rasa, virya, vipaka etc. That’s kinda my zone, where textbook knowledge meets day-to-day case handling. My practice revolves around helping people with PCOD, acne, dandruff, back pain, stiffness in knees or joints that never seem to go away. And I don’t jump to giving a long list of medicines straight away—first I spend time figuring out their prakriti, their habits, food cycle, what triggers what… basically all the small stuff that gets missed. Then comes the plan—herbs (single or compound), some diet reshuffling, and always some lifestyle nudges. Sometimes they’re tiny, like sleep timing. Sometimes big like proper seasonal detox. Being into Dravyaguna helps me get into the depth of herbs more confidently. I don’t just look at the symptom—I think okay what guna will counter this? Should the drug be snigdha, ushna, tikta? Is there a reverse vipaka that’ll hurt the agni? I ask these questions before writing any combo. That’s made a huge diff in outcomes. Like I had this case of chronic urticaria that would flare up every week, and just tweaking the herbs based on sheetala vs ushna nature... helped calm the system in 3 weeks flat. Not magic, just logic. I also work with women who are struggling with hormonal swings, mood, delayed periods or even unexplained breakouts. When hormones go haywire, the skin shows, digestion slows, and mind gets foggy too. I keep my approach full-circle—cleansing, balancing, rejuvenating. No quick fixes, I tell them early on. What I’m hoping to do more of now is make Ayurveda feel practical. Not overwhelming. Just simple tools—ahara, vihara, aushadha—used consistently, with some trust in the body’s own healing. I’m still learning, still refining, but honestly, seeing people feel in control of their health again—that’s what keeps me rooted to this.
5
173 reviews
Dr. Hemanshu Mehta
I am Dr. Hemanshu—right now a 2nd year MD scholar in Shalya Tantra, which basically means I’m training deep into the surgical side of Ayurveda. Not just cutting and stitching, btw, but the whole spectrum of para-surgical tools like Agnikarma, Viddhakarma, and Kshara Karma... these aren’t just traditional, they’re super precise when done right. I’m not saying I know everything yet (still learning every day honestly), but I do have solid exposure in handling chronic pain issues, muscle-joint disorders, and anorectal conditions like piles, fissures, fistulas—especially where modern treatments fall short or the patient’s tired of going through loops. During clinical rounds, I’ve seen how even simple Kshara application or well-timed Agnikarma can ease stuff like tennis elbow or planter fasciatis, fast. But more than the technique, I feel the key is figuring what matches the patient’s constitution n lifestyle... like one-size-never-fits-all here. I try to go beyond the complaint—looking into their ahar, sleep, stress levels, digestion, and just how they feel in general. That part gets missed often. I honestly believe healing isn’t just a “procedure done” kind of thing. I try not to rush—spend time on pre-procedure prep, post-care advice, what diet might help the tissue rebuild faster, whether they’re mentally up for it too. And no, I don’t ignore pathology reports either—modern diagnostic tools help me stay grounded while applying ancient methods. It’s not this vs that, it’s both, when needed. My aim, tbh, is to become the kind of Ayurvedic surgeon who doesn't just do the work but understands why that karma or technique is needed at that point in time. Every case teaches me something new, and that curiosity keeps me moving.
5
115 reviews
Dr. Ankit Khandelwal
I am practicing Ayurveda since 3 years now, and tbh even though that number looks small on paper—it sure feels way more intense when you think of the daily exposure to different conditions, people, energies. I focus mainly on holistic wellness, with a strong bend toward balancing the body-mind equation. Sometimes ppl ask if I only give herbs but truthfully it’s more about understanding the why behind the illness... not just the what. My work usually involve personalized treatment planning, where I mix classical Ayurvedic concepts—like dosha analysis, ahara-vihara (diet & lifestyle), and detox via Panchakarma—based on how the person is living right now. That dynamic bit matters. One patient with acidity might need total food overhaul. Another? Just better sleep and breath practices. I learnt to not jump into “fixing” unless I’m hearing fully. The past 3 years taught me to observe subtle signs more deeply. Like the small fatigue before full-blown fatigue. I don’t claim big breakthroughs, but I’ve seen lives shift—chronic migraines fading, IBS calming down, periods regularising, skin healing slowly from inside-out. And that feels huge. Every day kinda grows me. Whether it’s a simple consultation, or longer therapies, I try to keep things real, rooted, and not rushed. And yes there’s still lot to explore. But I’m in this for the long run and I want ppl to know that healing doesn’t mean perfection—it just means balance, awareness, and the willingness to start.
0 reviews
Dr. Khushboo
I am someone who kinda started out in both worlds—Ayurveda and allopathy—and that mix really shaped how I see health today. My clinical journey began with 6 months of hands-on allopathic exposure at District Hospital Sitapur. Honestly, that place was intense. Fast-paced, high patient flow, constant cases of chronic and acute illnesses coming through. That taught me a lot about how to see disease. Not just treat it, but like… notice the patterns, get better at real-time diagnosis, really listen to what the patient isn’t saying out loud sometimes. It gave me this sharper sense of clinical grounding which I think still stays with me. Then I moved more deeply into Ayurveda and spent another 6 months diving into clinical training focused on Panchakarma therapies. Stuff like Abhyanga, Basti, Shirodhara—learned those not just as a list of techniques, but how and when to use 'em, especially for detox and deep healing. Every case felt like a different puzzle. There wasn’t always one right answer, you know? And that’s where I found I loved adapting protocols based on what the person actually needed, not just what the textbook says. Alongside that, I got certified in Garbha Sanskar through structured training. That really pulled me closer to maternal health. Pregnancy support through Ayurveda isn’t just about herbs or massage, it’s like this entire way of guiding a mother-to-be toward nourishing the baby right from conception—emotionally, physically, all of it. That part stuck with me hard. My overall approach? It’s kinda fluid. I believe in balancing natural therapies and evidence-based thinking. Whether it's seasonal imbalance, hormonal issues, Panchakarma detox plans, or just guiding someone on long-term wellness—I like making people feel safe, heard, and actually understood. I’m not into rushing plans or masking symptoms. I’d rather work together with someone to build something sustainable that really suits their body and where they’re at. In a way, I’m still learning every day. But my focus stays the same—use Ayurvedic wisdom practically, compassionately, and in a way that just... makes sense in real life.
5
56 reviews

Latest reviews

Sebastian
25 minutes ago
Thanks a lot for the helpful advice! You really cleared up my doubts and gave me some greta options. Feeling much more confident about managing my mom's symptoms.
Thanks a lot for the helpful advice! You really cleared up my doubts and gave me some greta options. Feeling much more confident about managing my mom's symptoms.
Isaac
4 hours ago
This answer really cleared up my confusion. Felt like they really understood my issues and gave some practical steps. Thanks a ton!
This answer really cleared up my confusion. Felt like they really understood my issues and gave some practical steps. Thanks a ton!
Wyatt
4 hours ago
That advice was super clear and so helpful! Thanks for the detailed recommendations and explanation, feel more confident about what to do next.
That advice was super clear and so helpful! Thanks for the detailed recommendations and explanation, feel more confident about what to do next.
Anthony
4 hours ago
This was super helpful and impresively detailed, understanding both modern and Ayurvedic perspectives was insightful. Thanks for the guidance!
This was super helpful and impresively detailed, understanding both modern and Ayurvedic perspectives was insightful. Thanks for the guidance!