Vicks fixed nail fungus

Q. I am a 51-year-old physician who had some toenail fungus on a third of my great toenail. It had been gradually worsening during the previous two years, but I did not want to take Lamisil orally for 12 weeks for just one toenail.

My dermatologist suggested applying Vicks VapoRub to the affected nail. I put it on once a day after showering or bathing. After six months, my nail is now completely normal-looking! I wouldn’t have believed it had I not seen it with my own eyes. I hope that someone does a controlled clinical study on the use of Vicks VapoRub for toenail fungus one day.

A. One test-tube study found that the ingredients of Vicks VapoRub (menthol, eucalyptol, camphor, thymol, etc.) are effective against various fungal organisms that can infect toenails (Phytotherapy Research, April 2003). A small preliminary trial at Michigan State University mentioned in Consumer Reports (March 2006) found Vicks to be somewhat helpful.

Some readers report success with Vicks against nail fungus, but it does not work for everyone. We have collected a number of other home remedies for this common scourge in our Guide to Hair and Nail Care, which also describes pros and cons of prescription treatments. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $3 in check or money order with a long (No. 10), stamped (61 cents), self-addressed envelope to: Graedons’ People’s Pharmacy, No. H-31, P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027. It also can be downloaded for $2 from our website: www.peoplespharmacy.com.

Q. What’s the scoop on yohimbine for impotence? I’ve read that it has no serious side effects — though it may not work in humans. But I’ve also heard that there may be side effects. What is right?

I have a healthy libido, but I have recurring problems in achieving or maintaining an erection.

A. Most of the clinical research on yohimbine was done before Viagra, Levitra and Cialis became so popular. It was found to be helpful for some men with erectile dysfunction (International Journal of Impotence Research, February 2002). The medicine used in such studies is available by prescription under the brand name Yocon.

Yocon has well-recognized side effects, including elevated blood pressure, nervousness, nausea and vomiting, urinary retention and rapid heart rate. A new analysis of reports to the California Poison Control System noted an increase in problems between 2000 and 2006 (Annals of Pharmacotherapy, June 2010). The majority of these reports involved herbal products. The most common problems included digestive distress, rapid heartbeat, anxiety and hypertension.

Before taking an herbal yohimbine product, you should discuss your situation with your doctor. This herb is best used under medical supervision.

In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of The Vindicator or e-mail them via their website: www.PeoplesPharmacy.com. Their newest book is “Recipes & Remedies From The People’s Pharmacy.”

2010 King Features Syndicate Inc.