Fungal infections are incredibly common and can affect many parts of your body, from the surface of your skin to your toenails and even the delicate balance of bacteria in your gut. For example, manuka oil is a potent antifungal option that can help to treat these issues. Because these infections are so common, it’s important to have access to treatments that are effective and safe.
One such treatment is undecylenic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid derived from castor oil. You’ll find undecylenic acid in topical antifungal medications designed to treat skin infections. It can also be found as a dietary supplement that supports a healthy balance of bacteria and yeast in your gut.
This article explores the potential undecylenic acid benefits, how it’s used, and important safety considerations to keep in mind before using it.
What is Undecylenic Acid?
Undecylenic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid that comes from castor oil. What’s so special about it? Well, undecylenic acid is a powerful antifungal agent that works by preventing fungus from growing in the first place. It inhibits fungal growth by targeting biofilm formation, hyphae, and even the way fungus metabolizes fat.
If you’re looking to try undecylenic acid, you can find it in a variety of topical forms, like powders, solutions, sprays, creams, ointments, and soaps. You can even take it as an oral supplement. But is it right for you? Keep reading to find out!
Topical applications for fungal skin infections
Undecylenic acid is available in many topical forms to treat certain fungal infections of the skin.
Types of fungal infections that undecylenic acid can treat
Undecylenic acid can treat common fungal infections, such as:
- Ringworm (tinea corporis, tinea pedis, tinea cruris)
- Athlete’s foot
- Jock itch
How undecylenic acid works topically
Undecylenic acid inhibits fungal growth by disrupting fungal cell membranes. By weakening the cell membrane, undecylenic acid can stop the spread of fungal infections on your skin.
Dosage and application
The concentration of undecylenic acid varies depending on the form it takes. Here’s what you can expect:
- Powder: 10%, 12%, 19%
- Topical solution/spray: 25%
- Cream: 20%
- Ointment: 25%
- Soap: 97.5 g bar
When you’re ready to use the medication, apply it to skin that is clean and dry. Be sure to follow the directions on the product label.
Typically, you’ll need to use the medication for up to 4 weeks to see the best results. Talk with your doctor if you don’t notice an improvement after a few weeks of treatment.
Undecylenic Acid for Gut Health
These days, you hear a lot about the gut microbiome and how important it is to your overall health, but did you know that vitamin C may help support your body in fighting fungal infections?
Having a healthy gut microbiome is crucial for:
- healthy GI tract functioning
- absorbing nutrients from food
- eliminating waste
- supporting your immune system
One of the best ways to support your gut is by making sure you’re getting enough of the right kinds of fats in your diet. Undecylenic acid is one of those fats.
Studies show that fatty acids like undecylenic acid can help you maintain a healthy gut flora. Your gut microbiome can be affected by things like diet, digestive enzymes, oral contraceptives, and other medications. Undecylenic acid helps you keep everything in balance.
If you’re interested in taking an undecylenic acid supplement, Thorne makes one that contains 250mg of undecylenic acid per capsule. The recommended dose is 5 gelcaps two or three times a day, or as directed by your healthcare professional. As always, make sure to check with your doctor or other qualified health professional before adding a supplement to your diet.
Because undecylenic acid helps balance the flora in your body, it can also be beneficial for women’s health. In addition to promoting a healthy gut, it can help maintain the balance of vaginal flora.
Warnings and Precautions
Before using undecylenic acid, there are some precautions to be aware of. The specific warnings depend on whether you’re using a topical treatment or an oral supplement.
Topical Use
Here are some general warnings for topical undecylenic acid:
- Do not use on children under 2 years old or for diaper rash.
- Avoid getting the product in your eyes.
- Stop using the product and talk to your doctor if you experience irritation or if your condition doesn’t improve after 4 weeks.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, proceed with caution. There aren’t enough studies to determine whether topical undecylenic acid is safe to use during pregnancy. It is also unknown whether undecylenic acid passes into breast milk.
Oral Supplements
If you plan to take undecylenic acid as an oral supplement, don’t do so if you know you are allergic to any of the ingredients. As always, you should talk to a healthcare professional before use if you are pregnant.
Potential side effects and drug interactions
As with any topical treatment, it’s good to be aware of potential side effects. When applying undecylenic acid to the skin, some people experience mild irritation or a burning sensation. If this happens to you, discontinue use and see if the reaction subsides.
More serious side effects are rare, but if you experience anything unusual or concerning, contact your doctor right away. It’s always best to err on the side of caution.
Drug interactions with topical undecylenic acid are uncommon since very little of the medication is absorbed into the bloodstream. Nevertheless, it’s always a good idea to tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you’re taking, just to be on the safe side.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does undecylenic acid get rid of candida?
Undecylenic acid is known for its antifungal properties and can help manage Candida overgrowth. While it doesn’t necessarily “get rid of” Candida completely (as Candida is naturally present in the body), it can help inhibit its growth and prevent it from becoming problematic. It’s often used as part of a broader approach to Candida management, including dietary changes and other supportive supplements.
How long does it take for undecylenic acid to work?
The time it takes for undecylenic acid to show noticeable effects can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the condition. Some people might experience improvements within a few weeks, while others may need a few months of consistent use. Factors like diet, lifestyle, and other concurrent treatments can also influence the timeframe. Patience and consistency are key when using undecylenic acid.
Can you take undecylenic acid long term?
While undecylenic acid is generally considered safe for most people, the long-term use should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Prolonged use could potentially disrupt the natural balance of gut flora, even though it’s targeted towards unwanted organisms. Your doctor can help you assess the potential benefits and risks based on your specific health situation and determine the appropriate duration of use.
Conclusion
Undecylenic acid is known for its ability to fight fungal infections on the skin and support a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut. It can be a powerful tool in managing conditions like athlete’s foot and promoting overall digestive health.
Before you start using undecylenic acid, it’s important to talk to your doctor or another healthcare professional. This is especially important if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as the safety of undecylenic acid in these situations hasn’t been thoroughly studied. A healthcare provider can help you determine if undecylenic acid is right for you and guide you on the correct dosage and usage.
Undecylenic acid can be a valuable addition to your health regimen, but it’s essential to use it wisely and under the guidance of a professional. With the right approach, it can play a significant role in maintaining your overall health and well-being.