Nail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common infection of the toenails or fingernails. If you’ve got it, you probably already know it. It can cause discoloration, thickening, and brittleness of the nails, making them unsightly and sometimes even painful.
Many people turn to natural remedies to treat nail fungus, and one that’s often mentioned is eucalyptus oil. This oil has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and it contains a key compound called cineole (also known as eucalyptol) that’s thought to have medicinal properties.
But does eucalyptus oil really work for nail fungus? This article will explore the potential benefits of using eucalyptus oil for nail fungus and whether it’s a treatment worth trying.
Understanding nail fungus (onychomycosis)
Nail fungus is a common condition that can be frustrating to treat. It’s also known as onychomycosis, and it’s an infection underneath your fingernails or toenails.
Causes and risk factors
Dermatophytes are the main cause of nail fungus. Dermatophytes are fungi that thrive on keratin, the protein that makes up your nails and skin. Yeasts and molds, such as Candida, can also contribute to nail fungus.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing nail fungus:
- poor hygiene
- nail trauma
- diabetes
- weakened immune system
- wearing shoes that don’t allow your feet to breathe
Symptoms and diagnosis
If you have nail fungus, you might notice:
- thickening of the nail
- discoloration (yellowish-brown)
- brittleness
- distorted nail shape
It’s important to get a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional. They can perform a visual examination and laboratory tests, such as microscopy or culture, to confirm the fungal infection.
What’s in eucalyptus oil?
Eucalyptus oil is a complex substance with a lot of individual ingredients. Here are a few of the most important.
Key chemical constituents
Eucalyptol, also called 1,8-cineole, is the main ingredient in eucalyptus oil. The concentration of eucalyptol can vary depending on the variety of eucalyptus tree the oil comes from.
Eucalyptus oil also contains alpha-pinene, limonene, and other terpenes that may work together to make the oil more effective.
Antifungal properties
Eucalyptus oil fights fungus in a few ways. It can damage the membranes that surround fungal cells and also keep the fungus from growing and spreading.
In lab studies, eucalyptus oil has been shown to be effective against common dermatophytes like Trichophyton, which can cause athlete’s foot and other fungal infections.
Other beneficial properties
Eucalyptus oil can also help with:
- Inflammation: It can reduce swelling and irritation around the nail.
- Pain: It may help relieve pain and discomfort from the infection.
- Infection: It has antiseptic qualities that can prevent bacterial infections from developing, similar to chlorhexidine.
How to use eucalyptus oil for nail fungus
If you’re going to try eucalyptus oil to treat nail fungus, here’s how to do it safely and effectively.
Preparation
Start by trimming and filing the affected nail. This is an important step because it helps the eucalyptus oil get to all the parts of the nail that are infected. Think of it this way: if you have a splinter, it’s easier to get it out if it’s sticking out a bit, right? Same idea here.
Next, clean the nail and the skin around it with soap and water. Make sure to dry everything really well. Fungus loves damp places, so keeping the area dry is key.
Application methods
There are a few ways you can apply eucalyptus oil:
- Direct application: Dilute the eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. A good ratio is a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a teaspoon of carrier oil. Apply this mixture directly to the affected nail twice a day.
- Eucalyptus oil soaks: Mix a few drops of eucalyptus oil with warm water in a basin. Soak your foot or hand in the mixture for about 15-20 minutes. Do this regularly for a couple of weeks.
- Combining with other antifungals: Some people find that eucalyptus oil works even better when combined with other natural antifungal remedies like tea tree oil or, potentially, henna.
Precautions and safety considerations
Eucalyptus oil is powerful, so keep these safety tips in mind:
- Dilution is key: Always dilute eucalyptus oil before applying it to your skin. Undiluted eucalyptus oil can cause skin irritation.
- Patch test: Before using eucalyptus oil on a large area, do a patch test. Apply a small amount to a small area of skin and wait 24 hours to see if you have any reaction.
- Allergic reactions: Watch for signs of an allergic reaction, such as redness, itching, or swelling.
- Contraindications: If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before using eucalyptus oil. Also, be aware that eucalyptus oil can interact with certain medications.
Scientific evidence and research
Does eucalyptus oil really work to treat nail fungus?
Review of in vitro studies
Laboratory studies have shown that eucalyptus oil has antifungal properties. These studies look at how eucalyptus oil affects fungus in a controlled environment, such as a petri dish.
While these studies can show that eucalyptus oil can kill fungus, they don’t show that it will kill nail fungus on a living person. That’s because the conditions in a lab are very different than the conditions under a toenail.
In vitro research is a good start, but clinical trials are needed to prove eucalyptus oil’s effectiveness.
Clinical trials and human studies
I didn’t find any clinical trials that have studied how well eucalyptus oil works to treat nail fungus. If you and your doctor decide to try eucalyptus oil, you’ll be relying on its in vitro success and other people’s experiences.
Comparison with conventional treatments
The most common treatments for nail fungus are prescription antifungal medications like terbinafine and itraconazole, or topical treatments like clotrimazole lotion. These medications have been proven to work in clinical trials, but they can also have side effects.
Eucalyptus oil may have fewer side effects and cost less than prescription medications, but it also may not work as well. Talk with a doctor about the pros and cons of each approach to find the best treatment for you.
Lifestyle and preventative measures
Whether or not eucalyptus oil ends up working for you, you should also focus on preventing future fungal infections by:
- Practicing good foot hygiene: Wash your feet regularly, dry them thoroughly (especially between the toes), and wear clean socks daily.
- Wearing breathable shoes and socks: Avoid tight-fitting shoes and socks that trap moisture.
- Avoiding walking barefoot in public places: Wear shoes or sandals in locker rooms, swimming pools, and other public areas where fungus can thrive.
- Strengthening your immune system: A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management can all help boost your immune system and make you less susceptible to fungal infections.
- Taking care of your nails: Trim your nails straight across and avoid trauma to the nail bed, as this can create an entry point for fungus.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did I cure my nail fungus?
While I can’t provide personalized medical advice, curing nail fungus often involves a multi-pronged approach. This usually includes consistent application of antifungal treatments (either topical or oral), diligent nail trimming and hygiene, and patience, as it can take several months for the infection to clear completely. Success varies from person to person, so consulting a doctor is essential.
Can I use eucalyptus oil on my nails?
Eucalyptus oil possesses antifungal and antiseptic properties that some people find helpful in managing nail fungus. Always dilute eucalyptus oil with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) before applying it to your nails. Perform a patch test first to check for any allergic reactions or sensitivities.
What one cup of this will destroy your nail fungus?
There’s no single “magic cup” that will instantly eliminate nail fungus. Claims suggesting otherwise are likely misleading. Effective treatment requires consistent effort and may involve prescription medications or other therapies prescribed by a healthcare professional. Don’t rely solely on unproven remedies.
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
Vicks VapoRub contains ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which may have some antifungal properties and can help soften the nail. While some anecdotal evidence suggests it can improve the appearance of nail fungus, it’s not a proven cure and may only provide temporary relief. It’s best used as a complementary treatment, if at all.
Can you put eucalyptus oil directly on gums?
It’s generally not recommended to apply undiluted eucalyptus oil directly to your gums. Eucalyptus oil is potent and can cause irritation or burning sensations. If you’re considering using it for oral health purposes, consult with a dentist or qualified healthcare professional first to determine a safe and appropriate method for application.
In Summary
Eucalyptus oil might have some properties that could help with nail fungus. It has antifungal properties that may kill fungus, as well as anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that may relieve symptoms.
But there isn’t a lot of research on eucalyptus oil and nail fungus specifically. More research and clinical trials are needed to confirm whether eucalyptus oil is an effective treatment.
Eucalyptus oil may be a helpful complementary treatment, but it’s not a replacement for medical care. Talk with your doctor or other health professional to find out what treatment options are right for you.