Fungal infections are surprisingly common. You’ve likely heard of athlete’s foot, nail fungus, and yeast infections, but these are just a few of the many different kinds of fungal infections that can affect people.
For hundreds of years, people have turned to natural remedies to treat these infections. One such remedy is clove oil. Clove oil has a long history in traditional medicine, where it has been used to treat a variety of ailments.
But can you really use clove oil for fungal infection? This article explores the potential benefits of clove oil for treating fungal infections and provides guidance on how to use it safely and effectively.
What is clove oil?
Clove oil is an essential oil extracted from clove trees. These evergreen trees grow in Asia and South America. To extract the oil, manufacturers steam clove buds, stems, and leaves in a process called steam distillation.
Clove oil contains many chemical compounds, including:
- Eugenol
- Eugenyl acetate
- Beta-caryophyllene
Eugenol is the main ingredient in clove oil. It’s responsible for the oil’s distinctive smell and some of its health benefits.
Clove oil has many properties that may help fight fungal infections:
- Antifungal
- Antimicrobial
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
These properties may help to relieve inflammation, kill fungi and other microbes, and protect cells from damage.
How clove oil fights fungus: The science
Clove oil’s antifungal properties come from eugenol, its main chemical component. Let’s take a closer look at how it works.
Eugenol and fungal cell walls
Eugenol pokes holes in the cell walls of fungi. Specifically, it inhibits ergosterol synthesis, which is a key step in creating fungal cell membranes. Without healthy membranes, the fungal cells can’t survive.
Eugenol has been shown to be effective against:
- Dermatophytes, which cause athlete’s foot and ringworm
- Candida species, which cause yeast infections
- Aspergillus species, which cause nail fungus
In-vitro studies and research findings
Lab studies show that clove oil has strong antifungal activity, but many of these studies have been done in test tubes (in vitro) rather than on living people. That means more research is needed to understand how well it works in real-world conditions.
Clove oil vs. conventional antifungals
Clove oil has some potential advantages over traditional antifungal medications. It’s natural, and it may come with fewer side effects than medications you get at the pharmacy.
However, clove oil might be less powerful or slower to work than conventional treatments. If you’re dealing with a stubborn or serious fungal infection, it’s essential to talk with your doctor about the best course of action.
How to use clove oil for specific fungal infections
Clove oil is a powerful substance, and it’s important to use it carefully and correctly. It’s also important to remember that what works for one person may not work for another, and it’s always best to talk with a healthcare provider about your specific situation.
Athlete’s foot
Athlete’s foot is a common fungal infection that affects the skin on the feet, especially between the toes. To use clove oil for athlete’s foot, you’ll need to dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil. A good starting point is to use a ratio of 1-2 drops of clove oil per teaspoon of carrier oil.
Once you’ve prepared your clove oil solution, you can apply it to the affected area in a couple of ways:
- Foot soak: Add the diluted clove oil to a basin of warm water and soak your feet for 15-20 minutes.
- Topical application: Apply the diluted clove oil directly to the affected area with a cotton ball or clean cloth.
Use the clove oil solution once or twice a day. If you notice any irritation, discontinue use.
Nail fungus (onychomycosis)
Nail fungus is an infection that affects the nails, causing them to become discolored, thick, and brittle. To use clove oil for nail fungus, apply it directly to the affected nail with a cotton swab. You can do this once or twice a day.
It’s important to be patient and consistent when treating nail fungus. It can take several months to see results, and you’ll need to continue treatment until the infection is completely gone.
Yeast infections (cutaneous candidiasis)
Yeast infections can also affect the skin. To use clove oil for skin yeast infections, dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil, using a ratio of 1-2 drops of clove oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. Apply the diluted clove oil to the affected area with a cotton ball or clean cloth.
Don’t use clove oil internally for vaginal yeast infections without the guidance of a healthcare professional. Clove oil can be irritating to the delicate tissues of the vagina, and it’s important to use safer alternatives.
Other fungal infections
Clove oil may also be helpful for other fungal infections, such as ringworm. To use clove oil for these infections, dilute it with a carrier oil and apply it to the affected area with a cotton ball or clean cloth.
Safety precautions and potential side effects
Like any essential oil, it’s important to use clove oil safely. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Always dilute clove oil: Never apply clove oil directly to your skin without diluting it first with a carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil. A good rule of thumb is to use a 1% dilution for general use (that’s about 5 drops of clove oil per ounce of carrier oil).
- Watch out for skin irritation: Before you slather clove oil all over, do a patch test on a small area of skin. If you notice any redness, itching, or burning, stop using it immediately. These could be signs of an allergic reaction.
- Know when to avoid clove oil: If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have certain medical conditions, avoid using clove oil altogether.
- Medication interactions: Clove oil may interact with blood thinners and other medications. If you’re taking any medications, talk to your doctor before using clove oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which essential oil is the strongest antifungal?
While several essential oils possess antifungal properties, oregano oil is often cited as one of the strongest due to its high concentration of carvacrol. However, it’s crucial to dilute oregano oil properly before use, as it can be irritating to the skin. Other potent antifungal oils include tea tree, clove, and thyme.
Is clove oil good for toenail fungus?
Clove oil contains eugenol, which exhibits antifungal properties that may help combat toenail fungus. When properly diluted and applied topically, it can potentially inhibit fungal growth. However, clove oil is not a guaranteed cure and may require consistent application over a prolonged period.
When should you not use clove oil?
Avoid using clove oil if you have sensitive skin, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a known allergy to clove or eugenol. It’s also not recommended for children. Always perform a patch test before applying clove oil to a larger area and avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.
Which essential oil kills toenail fungus?
Tea tree oil is commonly used to treat toenail fungus because of its antifungal properties. Other oils such as clove oil, lavender and eucalyptus oil may also be used, but it’s important to remember that essential oils should be diluted with a carrier oil before application.
Can clove cure fungal infections?
While clove oil possesses antifungal properties that may help manage fungal infections, it’s not a guaranteed cure. It can be a helpful adjunct to conventional treatments, but severe or persistent fungal infections should always be evaluated and treated by a healthcare professional.
Putting It All Together
Clove oil may be helpful in treating fungal infections because of its antifungal and antimicrobial properties. It may also help reduce inflammation.
However, it’s important to use clove oil safely. Always dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it to your skin. Test it on a small patch of skin before applying it to a larger area. Talk with your doctor before using clove oil, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking other medications.
While clove oil may be a helpful addition to your treatment plan, it’s not a replacement for traditional medical care. You shouldn’t rely on clove oil alone to treat a fungal infection. Instead, use it along with the treatments your doctor recommends.