Treating a toe infection

¦ I had a stubborn fungal infection on my toenail, which I clipped too short and accidentally cut the skin underneath it.

As a result, I got an infection in the nail and had to take a course of antibiotics. But the nail died and I had to have it surgically removed. My cut was slow to heal until I took my pharmacist’s advice and covered it when showering. However, while the nail has started growing again, the wound is not fully cured.

I am taking Eltroxin on a daily basis as I have had my thyroid removed. I would like to know about alternatives to this drug. I am 60 years of age.

>> Fungal infections can be stubborn and difficult to shift - as you have discovered. Your situation also serves as an important reminder as to how such a simple act of clipping the nail too short and nicking the skin can have such a significant and long-term effect on your body.

Since the immune system is crucial in dealing with fungal infections, the fact that you have had your thyroid removed is likely a factor in the persistence of this infection. Fungal infections actually occur far more frequently in people who have thyroid issues, particularly when it is underactive.

Dr Patrick Magovern has a special interest in the thyroid, and treats a wide range of conditions using a combination of conventional and alternative therapies, including nutrition, acupuncture, homeopathy, and testing for food intolerances. His clinic is at 3 Drummartin Road, Goatstown, in Dublin, (www.drummartinclinic.ie; 01-2965993).

In the meantime, you can help your immune system to fight the infection by using the simple yet powerful kitchen remedy, garlic. You can make your own remedy using fresh garlic cloves - crush three cloves of garlic into a tablespoon of raw honey (manuka is my preference, although local raw honey is excellent too), and let it sit for an hour or so before using. Take one teaspoon of the garlic-infused honey three times daily until the infection clears - this has been shown to be as powerful as a course of antibiotics, but without the negative side effects.

Topical solutions seem to have very individual results, since the root cause of fungal infections varies greatly between people. Some people have rid themselves of fungal nail infections simply by applying neat tea tree oil morning and night, while others have success with rubbing raw garlic cloves on the nail.

¦ Can you recommend a natural alternative to Ibuprofen? I suffer from tension headaches and this medication seems to work well, but I would prefer to take something natural.

>> While seeking out and treating the underlying cause of your tension headaches is crucial, you can also use some natural remedies to help relieve the pain and inflammation.

The herb known as tulsi, or holy basil (ocimum tenuiflorum/ sanctum), is fantastic for tension headaches, with anti-inflammatory activity comparable to that of ibuprofen, Naproxen, and aspirin. Use a teaspoon of dried herb per cup of near-boiling water and take up to four times daily.

Ginger can also help to relieve inflammation - you can make an infusion with the fresh root by grating a teaspoon in a cup of boiling water. Add honey to taste.

It is worth checking out osteopathy or chiropractic care, since there is likely an alignment issue requiring treatment. You can also use a pain relief balm, such as tiger balm and, of course, you should also drink plenty of water, usually around 2-3 litres daily to eliminate dehydration.