While there are prescription treatments for toenail fungus, they can cause side effects like liver damage and skin rashes. If you've suffered from side effects and can no longer take these medications, that does not mean you just have to live with nail fungus. There are several home remedies you can try to get rid of it.

Tea Tree Oil

This essential oil is well known for its antifungal properties. It is more often used to treat ringworm and athlete's foot, but can be effective against toenail fungus, too. Look for tea tree essential oil in your local health food store. Add a few drops to a bowl of warm water, and then soak your infected nails in the water for about 30 minutes. Repeat this treatment daily. It may take a few months to get rid of the fungus completely, but it should slowly subside.

Garlic

If you don't mind your feet smelling like garlic, then this quick and easy treatment is a great one to try. Garlic contains natural antifungal compounds. Slice a clove in half, and then rub it over your affected nails. Repeat this twice per day, preferably after bathing when your nails are softer and the garlic juice can leech in more easily. Within a few months, you should notice your nail fungus subside greatly.

Oil of Oregano

Oil of oregano can get a bit costly, but it is a very effective remedy for toenail fungus. Look for it at your local health food store. Only buy brands that contain pure oil of oregano. You don't want one that is diluted with another oil like almond or olive. Take a drop or two, and massage it into each infected nail. Repeat this treatment every day. You should notice an improvement within weeks, though the fungus might take a few months to go away completely.

Baking Soda

Fungi love moisture. If your feet stay moist throughout the day, this will only serve to make your toenail fungus worse. Try sprinkling baking soda liberally around your toes before putting them into your socks. Also sprinkle plenty of baking soda in your shoes. It will help absorb moisture so your feet stay dry throughout the day. This treatment alone won't get rid of toenail fungus, but it will enhance the effectiveness of other treatments, like tea tree oil or garlic, when you use it in conjunction with them.

When treating nail fungus, keep in mind that you must be patient. The yellow, gross nail tissue that is infected with fungus is never going to look better -- but the new nail that grows out will look better if you're treating the fungus effectively. It will take a few months for that new nail to grow out and replace the old, yellowed nail.

For nail fungus treatment at a doctor's office, contact a business such as Oregon Foot Clinic.