Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common condition that can cause your nails to become discolored, thickened, and brittle. While it’s not usually a serious health issue, it can be unsightly and even uncomfortable.
If you’re looking for a natural way to treat nail fungus, you may have heard about essential oils. Some people find that these plant extracts can help to combat the infection.
This article will explore some of the most effective essential oils for fungus nail, how to use them, and what you need to keep in mind before trying this treatment.
What is nail fungus?
Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that can make your toenails or fingernails discolored, thick, and brittle.
Fungal infections are common, and they can be tricky to get rid of.
Conventional treatments vs. natural remedies
There are prescription creams, prescription oral medicines, and even laser therapy that can help with nail fungus. But the fungus can adapt and become resistant to the treatments.
That’s why some people prefer to try natural remedies for nail fungus.
Essential oils: A natural approach to fighting nail fungus
Essential oils have been used for their healing properties for centuries. Some have potent antifungal effects that can help you beat nail fungus.
Key essential oils and their properties
- Tea tree oil: This is one of the most well-known essential oils for fighting fungus and bacteria.
- Oregano oil: Oregano oil is a strong antifungal, so you’ll need to dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
- Lavender oil: A study in the Journal of Medical Microbiology showed that lavender oil has a strong antifungal effect on the strains that cause common skin and nail infections.
- Eucalyptus oil: A scientific study showed that eucalyptus oil is able to prevent fungal infections.
- Other potential oils: Lemongrass, clove, thyme linalool, cinnamon bark, and niaouli oils also have antifungal properties.
How essential oils work
The antifungal and antibacterial actions of essential oils allow them to penetrate the nail bed and fight the infection directly.
How to use essential oils safely and effectively
If you want to try using essential oils to treat your nail fungus, here are a few guidelines to follow.
Preparation and dilution
Before you get started, be sure to clean and dry the affected area. It’s important to dilute essential oils using a carrier oil, such as olive or coconut oil. A good rule of thumb is to use 5% essential oil and 95% carrier oil.
Application technique
Put a few drops of the diluted essential oil, or even something like neem nail oil, directly onto the affected nail and the skin around it. Then, gently massage the oil into your nail bed. Repeat this process at least twice a day for best results.
Patch testing and sensitivity
Before you start using an essential oil regularly, it’s a good idea to do a patch test to check for skin sensitivity. Put a small amount of the diluted oil on a small area of skin and wait 24 hours to see if any irritation or discomfort occurs. If it does, stop using the oil immediately.
Important considerations and expectations
If you’re going to try using essential oils to treat a fungal nail infection, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Be consistent and patient. You’ll need to apply the oil regularly for several months before you see results.
- Manage your expectations. Essential oils don’t work for everyone, so it’s important to be realistic.
- Talk to a podiatrist. Before you start any treatment, you may want to consult with a professional to see if removing the affected nail is needed.
Disclaimer: Essential oils are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure, or prevent any disease.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which essential oil is the strongest antifungal?
Tea tree oil is often cited as the strongest antifungal essential oil due to its high concentration of terpinen-4-ol, a compound known for its potent antifungal properties. Oregano oil is another strong contender, but should be used with caution due to its potential for skin irritation. Always dilute essential oils properly before topical application.
What oil gets rid of fungus?
Several essential oils possess antifungal properties that can help combat fungal infections. Tea tree oil, oregano oil, lavender oil, and clove oil are commonly used for this purpose. However, it’s crucial to understand that essential oils are not a guaranteed cure and may take time and consistent application to show results. Consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe infections.
How to use lavender oil for toenail fungus?
To use lavender oil for toenail fungus, dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil (a few drops of lavender oil per teaspoon of carrier oil). Apply the mixture directly to the affected toenail and surrounding skin twice daily. Ensure your feet are clean and dry before application. Lavender oil’s antifungal and soothing properties can help combat the infection and reduce inflammation.
What worsens toenail fungus?
Several factors can worsen toenail fungus. These include wearing tight-fitting shoes that restrict airflow, having poor foot hygiene, walking barefoot in public places (especially damp areas), having weakened immune systems, and underlying conditions like diabetes. Trauma to the nail can also increase the risk of infection and slow healing.
What is the most powerful natural antifungal?
While there isn’t one single “most powerful” natural antifungal, oregano oil is often considered a very potent option due to its high carvacrol content. However, it’s important to use it cautiously and dilute it significantly, as it can be irritating to the skin. Always perform a patch test before applying it to a larger area and consult with a healthcare professional for guidance.
Conclusion
Essential oils might help get rid of your nail fungus naturally. But you need to be careful with how you use them, and you have to use them regularly. Remember that it can take a long time to get rid of nail fungus, even with prescription medications. If you want to try essential oils, talk with your doctor first about whether they’re right for you.