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Author: Elena Marinova, Master of Pharmacy

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We all know that a panacea, unfortunately, does not exist, but chamomile has been considered as such for many years. Known since ancient times, this herb deservedly received the nickname "the star among the medicinal species", which is still relevant today. Chamomile is used for both internal and external use, and the rich set of biologically active substances determines its various healing properties.

Special-Aroma

Special Aroma

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Near or in populated areas, by roads or on meadows, in turbulent and abandoned places, between May and July, you will surely find the small yellow-and-white flowers of chamomile. You will recognize it even blindfolded only by the aroma, which is so specific, so pleasant and soothing, so familiar... This aroma is due to the high content of essential oils and is one of the main criteria that distinguish chamomile from its doppelgangers.

What-Is-Chamomile-And-How-To-Recognize-It

What Is Chamomile And How To Recognize It

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Chamomile is a herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Compositae. It is distributed in Europe, Asia and North America. Two close varieties of the plant Chamomilla recutita are used as an herb - German chamomile and Chamaemelum nobile - Roman chamomile.

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From the Greek its name means "earth apple". The leaves of chamomile are filamentous, and the flowers are collected in a basket inflorescence. Besides the aroma, the other important distinguishing feature of the herb is the flower bed, which is conical and hollow.

A-Look-At-Antiquity

A Look At Antiquity

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Chamomile was used thousands of years ago by the ancient Romans, Egyptians and Greeks to treat various diseases and conditions - <a href="/p/krviashchitie_vientsi_kak_da_sie_spravim_s_probliema_s_prirodni_sriedstva_512d3da9_67c1_47e1_bf6a_6c9d9bef6c59" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">inflammation of the gums</a>, sore throat, <a href="/p/inkhalatsiia_s_bilki_pri_bronkhit_kashlitsa_zachiervieno_ghrlo_khriema_i_trievozhnost" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">lung diseases</a>, <a href="/p/trievozhnost_i_biezsniie_kakvo_priedlagha_prirodata_eef882c6_b669_4aea_9d2d_1e11852fbcfe" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">insomnia</a> and others.

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In the Tibetan mountains lived monks who had a lot of knowledge about herbs. They invented a special recipe for rejuvenation, the main component being chamomile. Unfortunately, the herb cannot rejuvenate us, but it contributes to our skin being smooth, tender, beautiful and it is no coincidence that it is part of many herbal creams and lotions.

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 Easy recipes from Russian folk medicine for the treatment of skin diseases. Part 2: acne, dermatitis, rosacea

Medicinal plants for healthy and beautiful skin. Part 1

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Ancient Egyptian doctors emphasized the internal application of chamomile and the benefits it brings - every third day of the month, chamomile tea was drunk to detoxify the body.

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Chamomile---A-Herb-With-Many-Names-And-Useful-Properties

Chamomile - A Herb With Many Names And Useful Properties

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Its other Latin name Matricaria recutita is related to the application of chamomile in case of problems with the female reproductive system. The herb is used in:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">inflammation</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">muscle spasms</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">menstrual disorders</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">skin irritations and wounds</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">gastro-intestinal disorders</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">hemorrhoids</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">hay fever <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Chamomile_A_herbal_medicine_of_the_past_with_bright_future_21132119" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> [ref.1]</a></li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">cosmetics and <a href="/p/aromatierapiiata_kak_sami_da_prilozhim_tazi_praktika_ot_drievnostta" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">aromatherapy</a></li>
</ul>

The-Rich-Chemical-Composition-Of-The-Herb

The Rich Chemical Composition Of The Herb

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Chamomile contains many diverse biologically active substances. The greatest is their quantity in the flowers, therefore for healing purposes the "basket" of the plant is used, which are collected during flowering (May-July), and then dried.

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Of the active substances the highest is the content of essential oils. They are extracted from the flowers by distillation with water vapour, and the resulting oil Chamomillae oleum has a blue color.

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Chamomile oil contains essential oils of the group of sesquiterpenes (farnesen, alpha-bisabolol) and polyins. They are due to antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and sedative effects. Essential oils mainly determine the use of chamomile for internal use.

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It is applied alone or in combination with other herbs in the form of tea, using dried flowers. Both tea and chamomile oil help with gastrointestinal discomfort (swelling, pain), inflammation in the oral cavity (in the form of mouthwash), nervousness, inflammation of the upper respiratory tract, menstrual pain.

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In the flowers of chamomile there are also flavonoids mainly apigenin, quercetin, luteolin. These are biologically active substances with various important effects for the body - antioxidant (defuse harmful free radicals), diuretic (increases the amount of urine released in 24 hours), anti-inflammatory action.

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Chamomile has been shown to have an antiaggregant effect (prevents the adhesion of platelets), which is due to another type of biologically active substances - coumarins. <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/A_review_of_the_bioactivity_and_potential_health_benefits_of_chamomile_tea_Matricaria_recutita_L_16628544" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.2]</a>

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 Which herbs to avoid when taking aspirin, nurofen and paracetamol

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Studies have been carried out that chamomile has antimicrobial, antifungal and antitumor action. <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Chamomile_Matricaria_chamomilla_L_An_overview_22096322#ref20" target="_blank" rel="noopener"> [ref.3]</a>

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Chamomile-For-External-Use

Chamomile For External Use

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Externally, chamomile is applied in the form of lotions, compresses, infusions, enters the composition of face and body creams. It has an anti-inflammatory and soothing effect on the skin and mucous membranes, which is again due to the essential oils. In addition, chamomile helps to heal wounds faster.

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An animal study has been done that proves that chamomile has a faster effect on wound healing than corticosteroids (drugs that have a strong anti-inflammatory effect, but their excessive use can harm the body). <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Comparative_analysis_between_Chamomilla_recutita_and_corticosteroids_on_wound_healing_An_in_vitro_and_in_vivo_study_18803230" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.4]</a>

How-To-Use-Chamomile-At-Home

How To Use Chamomile At Home

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Here's how to use chamomile:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">tea - 1 tsp dried chamomile flowers is poured with 250 ml of boiling water;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">extract - 10 tbsp of dried herb are poured with 2 cups of cold water and allowed to sit for 8 hours;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">compresses - 1 tbsp of dried chamomile is poured with 250 ml of boiling milk;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">for mucous membrane washes - 1 tsp of the herb is poured with 1 liter of boiling water. After the extract cools down (but is still warm), rinse.</li>
</ul>

Adding-Chamomile-To-Drinks-And-Dishes

Adding Chamomile To Drinks And Dishes

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An interesting fact is that chamomile was added to the beer to give a bittertaste. The whole plant was used and not just the flowers.

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Chamomile is not known as a spice, but in recent years petals from the plant have been added to some dishes for exactly the same purpose. Flowers can also be used as decoration in pastries.

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Safety-And-Adverse-Effects-Of-Chamomile-Use

Safety And Adverse Effects Of Chamomile Use

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The use of this herb is well tolerable by the body, but we should still use it with caution. As a side effect, an allergic reaction is most common, so people who are allergic to plants in this family should not use chamomile.

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Chamomile should not be used with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and with anticoagulants, because of apigenin contained in the plant (hemorrhage may occur).

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The herb should not be used in women with endometriosis and hormone-dependent cancer (contains substances with estrogen-like effect). <a href="https://www.drugs.com/mtm/chamomile.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">[ref.5]</a>

Chamomile-In-Pregnancy-And-Lactation

Chamomile In Pregnancy And Lactation

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The use of chamomile during pregnancy can lead to contractions and miscarriage. Therefore, its use during this period is not desirable. There are not enough studies on the intake of the herb during lactation, therefore it is not recommended.

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If you see this tiny plant on the road, do not pass it. Pick up a few flowers, dry them and make a nice tea. You already know how useful the properties of this herb are. If you do not want to tear it off, rub your finger on one of the flower baskets and inhale the aroma - you will certainly feel better.

<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Chamomile_A_herbal_medicine_of_the_past_with_bright_future_21132119" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chamomile: A herbal medicine of the past with a bright future</a>, 2010, Molecular Medicine Reports

<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/A_review_of_the_bioactivity_and_potential_health_benefits_of_chamomile_tea_Matricaria_recutita_L_16628544" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A review of the bioactivity and potential health benefits of chamomile tea (Matricaria recutita L.)</a> , 2006, Phytotherapy Research

<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Chamomile_Matricaria_chamomilla_L_An_overview_22096322#ref20" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla L.): An overview</a>, 2011, Pharmacognosy Reviews

<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Comparative_analysis_between_Chamomilla_recutita_and_corticosteroids_on_wound_healing_An_in_vitro_and_in_vivo_study_18803230" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Comparative analysis between Chamomilla recutita and corticosteroids on wound healing. An in vitro and in vivo study</a>, 2008, Phytotherapy Research

Chamomile, drugs.com

Gin hides its origin not as a summer drink, but as a healing agent in the arsenal of traditional medicine.

Healing Properties of Juniper - The Secret of Gin 

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Summer aroma and ice cold taste - probably the mastic on the beach is the most common association of most of us when it comes to anise. But this plant turns out to be something more - a useful herb with many qualities that are used for medicinal purposes.

Anise - The Summer Taste of an Ancient Herb

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Smoketree is a well-known gift from nature, which is distinguished by its powerful antibacterial and antioxidant properties.

Smoketree - a natural antiseptic

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Tea is the second most common drink after water. Tea, which is prepared from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant is 3 types: green, oolong and black - depending on the degree of oxidation of the leaves. The most oxidized are the leaves of black tea, not so much of the oolong tea and the leafs of green tea are not oxidized at all.

9 unexpected health benefits of green tea and how to prepare it

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Chillies owe their effect to a compound called capsaicin, which can help control inflammation and other harmful processes in the body associated with the accumulation of fatty plaques in the arteries (atherosclerosis), for example.

Are chili peppers healthy - find out what science has to say

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Studies have suggested that ginseng reduces physical, chemical and biological stress, while increasing overall vitality and immune function, including physical and mental capacity.

8 reasons why the Chinese call ginseng The King of Herbs

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Aging isn't the only misfortune that can befall our skin. Therefore, we put together in one place herbs and medicinal plants that act against acne, help heal wounds and burns, have a calming and anti-inflammatory effect.

Medicinal plants for beautiful amd healthy skin. Part 1

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Polycystic ovary syndrome is one of the most common causes of infertility in womеn, due to no ovulation or difficulties in predicting when this is most likely to happen. 

Which herbs and supplements regulate the cycle in polycystic ovary syndrome for easier conception

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Chamomile - "The Panacea For All Diseases"

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 Chamomile - "The Panacea For All Diseases"

Elena Marinova

Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

About 50% of all reasons for visiting a doctor with a nail problem are due to fungus or onychomycosis. It's appearance can be a sign of lowered immune system functions, poor hygiene or inappropriate shoes.

What-To-Know-About-Nail-Fungus

What To Know About Nail Fungus

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The fungus that attacks the nail is called dermatophyte and initially enter through microscopic injuries and cracks on it, then spread its mycelium inside the nail and feed on the keratin from which the nails are built.

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In appearance, the nail changes color and turns yellow, then begins to break or peal, and at an advanced stage its appearance is so altered that it begins to resemble that of animal horns and hooves.

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Sometimes detachment of the nail due to uncomfortable shoes can be mistaken for fungi and incorrect treatment can be prescribed. Therefore, it is best to take a sample of the nail in a doctor's office, which can be examined for the presence of fungi under a microscope.

Is-Onychomycosis-Dangerous

Is Onychomycosis Dangerous

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Nail fungus is an infection that can develop in extremely unfavorable ways both locally and affecting the whole organism.

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Here are the dangers:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">A highly amended nail can make shoes uncomfortable and lead to pain in the foot;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Infection can cause the nail to fall or require its removal from a doctor. The procedure is painful, and in some cases it is necessary to remove the nail "from the root", in which it never grows again;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">The fungus can easily spread from the nail to the surrounding skin, causing <a href="/p/omraznitie_ghbichki_kakvo_mozhiem_da_napravim_v_domashni_usloviia_pri_vaghinalna_kandidoza" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer"></a> itching, red, peeling skin, especially between the fingers. They can also spread to the genitals and in particular the lap, inner thighs and buttocks. This condition should not be confused with <a href="/p/omraznitie_ghbichki_kakvo_mozhiem_da_napravim_v_domashni_usloviia_pri_vaghinalna_kandidoza" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer">vaginal candidiasis</a>;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">In people with severely weakened immune system or suffering from diabetes, the infection can cause painful wounds to become infected with bacteria and lead to life-threatening conditions.</li>
</ul>

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What-Are-The-Usual-Treatment-Methods

What Are The Usual Treatment Methods

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As we said, the problem is not just cosmetic - it is an infection that we need to fight. For this purpose, it is good to visit a dermatologist, who can prescribe treatment with topical agents in mild cases or systemic therapy in advanced disease, ie. taking antifungal medications by mouth. Unfortunately, these drugs are not completely harmless and can seriously burden the liver.

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Among the most commonly prescribed drugs are Lamisil (terbinafine), Clotrimazole, Diflucan (fluconazole) and undecylenic acid, which is part of anti-fungal nail polishes.

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There are also some home remedies that can support the treatment in the initial stage of the disease, but if you are receiving medication or other local treatment, be sure to consult the attending physician whether home treatment is compatible with the appointed one.

How-To-Prevent-Fungal-Infection-Of-The-Nails

How To Prevent Fungal Infection Of The Nails

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Prevention is the best treatment, so if you can spare yourself the appearance of fungi through a few simple rules in your daily life, it is wiser to do so.

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One of these rules is to keep your toenails short when wearing closed shoes. This is especially true before a hike in the mountains or a sport in which nails push against the shoes and get injured, and this is a great prerequisite for the development of fungi that can occur normally on the skin of the fingers in small quantities and take advantage of the injured nail.

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The second rule is that shoes must be comfortable - any pressing and rubbing leads to microscopic injuries that are an open door for the fungus. This problem most often affects women due to wearing high heels and tight shoes.

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The third rule is that rough skin on the fingers should be delicately removed after each shower - this reduces the amount of fungi that normally feed on this skin, and accordingly reduces the risk of them being transferred to the nail and leading to its infection.

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Fourth rule - do not wear the shoes of other people, especially in sportshalls, where the same pair of shoes is worn by all visitors, and hygiene is at a dubious level.

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Fifth rule - avoid sweating of the feet. When the season is suitable, let's also wear the right shoes. Fungi love warm and moist environment.

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The sixth rule is to be especially careful when using swimming pools, saunas, gyms, communal showers, because these are places where there is an increased risk of infection with fungi due to the humidity and numerous visitors.

Mexican-Plant-Ageratina-pichinchensis-Gives-Promising-Results

Mexican Plant  Ageratina pichinchensis Gives Promising Results

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The Mexican plant Ageratina pichinchensis is also known as Snakeroot.

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A 2008 study [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Double_blind_clinical_trial_for_evaluating_the_effectiveness_and_tolerability_of_Ageratina_pichinchensis_extract_on_patients_with_mild_to_moderate_onychomycosis_A_comparative_study_with_ciclopirox_18671197" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>] shows its effectiveness in the treatment of nail fungus, having been used as follows: extract of the plant was applied topically to the nail every third day in the first month, twice a week in the second month and once a week during the third month.

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The extract has shown the same effectiveness as the drug ciclopirox.

Tea-Tree-Oil

Tea Tree Oil

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There is evidence that tea tree essential oil (Melaleuca alternifolia) is just as effective as clotrimazole.

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It can be smeared twice a day directly on the nail. It has a strong antibacterial and antifungal effect. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Comparison_of_two_topical_preparations_for_the_treatment_of_onychomycosis_Melaleuca_alternifolia_tea_tree_oil_and_clotrimazole_8195735" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>]

Oregano-Essential-Oil

Oregano Essential Oil

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Like tea tree essential oil, oregano oil also has antifungal properties. In this case, they are due to the substance thymol.

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Its application is the same as the tea tree - smear the nails twice a day.

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Eucalyptus-Essential-Oil

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

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Good effectiveness of eucalyptus essential oil has been established in superficial infection with nail fungus (onychomycosis). According to the authors of a 2015 study, the effect is comparable to that of certain drugs for topical use. [<a href="https://jfootankleres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1757-1146-8-S2-P1" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.3</a>]

Ozonized-Oils

Ozonized Oils

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One study shows that ozonized sunflower oil is just as effective with topical application on the nails as the drug ketoconazole. [<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1439-0507.2010.01898.x" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.4</a>]

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It has been established that ozonized sunflower oil and olive oil have a good antibacterial and antifungal effect.

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Ozonized oils contain small amounts of ozone in themselves, added additionally.

Q&amp;A

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Are baking soda and vinegar effective in onychomycosis?

Q&amp;A_9_1

Baking soda and vinegar are known folk remedies for the treatment of nail fungus. They have antibacterial and antifungal potential, but have not yet been proven by science means for the treatment of onychomycosis and nail fungus.

Q&amp;A_9_2

What is laser therapy for the treatment of nail fungus?

Herbs and bioactive substances