Toenail fungus is a common issue that can be unsightly and, sometimes, even painful. Also known as onychomycosis, toenail fungus causes nails to turn yellow, thicken, and even crumble.
Conventional treatments include prescription antifungal medications. However, many people are looking for more natural solutions. Enter mānuka oil, derived from the mānuka tree native to New Zealand. Mānuka oil is known for its potent antifungal properties, making it a promising alternative treatment for toenail fungus.
In this article, we’ll explore what causes toenail fungus, who is most at risk, and various treatment options, as detailed by a nail fungus doctor. We’ll also take a closer look at the potential benefits of using mānuka oil for toenail fungus and how to apply it for the best results.
Understanding toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
Toenail fungus is also called onychomycosis. It’s a fungal infection that affects toenails and sometimes fingernails. The infection can cause several unpleasant symptoms, including:
- Yellowing
- Thickening
- Crumbling
- Unpleasant odor
- Lifting of the nail from the nail bed
What causes toenail fungus?
Fungi enter the nail through tiny cuts or cracks in the nail or surrounding skin. The most common types of fungi involved are dermatophytes, especially Trichophyton rubrum, and non-dermatophytes such as molds and yeasts.
Certain factors can increase your risk of getting toenail fungus:
- Age (over 65)
- Living in a hot and humid climate
- Having health conditions like athlete’s foot, diabetes, and psoriasis
- Lifestyle factors like wearing wet shoes and smoking
The power of mānuka oil: Antifungal properties and benefits
Mānuka oil comes from the Leptospermum scoparium tree, and it’s got a lot going for it. It’s full of antimicrobial compounds, including triketones, sesquiterpenes, and monoterpenes.
But how does it fight fungus? Mānuka oil works by messing with the fungal cell membranes, which stops the fungus from growing and reproducing.
In addition to its antifungal abilities, mānuka oil boasts anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This can help with healing. Mānuka oil can also get deep down into your nail beds to fight the fungus directly where it lives.
Using Mānuka Oil to Treat Toenail Fungus: A Step-by-Step Guide
So, you’re ready to give mānuka oil a try for that stubborn toenail fungus? Here’s how to do it right:
1. Prep your nails
First, you’ve got to get those toes squeaky clean. Wash your feet thoroughly with soap and water to get rid of any dirt or grime. After they’re dry, trim your toenails. This helps the mānuka oil soak in better and get to work on the fungus.
2. Apply the mānuka oil
Grab a clean cotton ball, swab, or soft cloth, and put a few drops of mānuka oil on it. Gently rub the oil onto the infected toenails, making sure to get it all around the nail and the skin around it. Do this twice a day for a few weeks to see results.
3. Be kind to sensitive skin
If you’ve got sensitive skin, mānuka oil can be a bit strong. Try mixing it with a carrier oil like olive oil or coconut oil to dilute it. This can help prevent any irritation.
Mānuka Oil vs. Conventional Toenail Fungus Treatments
If you’ve dealt with toenail fungus before, you’re probably familiar with common treatments like topical antifungal creams and ointments you can buy at the drugstore, or perhaps even Formula 3 for nail fungus. Doctors sometimes prescribe oral antifungal pills, too, but natural remedies such as neem oil for fungal infections can also be explored.
Mānuka oil is a natural alternative that may have fewer side effects than these medications. However, it may also work more slowly. It’s important to remember that Mānuka oil may not be as potent as prescription meds.
Talk to your doctor to figure out the best way to treat your toenail fungus. He or she can help you weigh the benefits and risks of each option based on your specific situation.
Additional tips for preventing toenail fungus
Besides using manuka oil, you can also take other precautions to prevent toenail fungus:
- Foot hygiene
- Wash your feet regularly with soap and water.
- Dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes, after washing.
- Keep your feet as clean and dry as possible.
- Proper footwear
- Wear breathable shoes and socks.
- Let your shoes dry out between wearings. Avoid wearing the same shoes every day.
- Preventative measures
- Use antifungal foot powders or sprays.
- Don’t walk barefoot in public places like locker rooms and swimming pools.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is manuka essential oil good for toenail fungus?
Manuka essential oil, derived from the manuka tree native to New Zealand, possesses antifungal properties that may be beneficial in treating toenail fungus. However, research is still limited, and it’s best used as a complementary treatment alongside conventional methods. Always dilute it with a carrier oil before applying.
What is the number one nail fungus remover?
There’s no single “number one” remedy for toenail fungus, as effectiveness varies between individuals. Prescription antifungal medications, like terbinafine and itraconazole, are often considered the most potent. Over-the-counter options containing ingredients like tolnaftate or undecylenic acid can also be effective for mild cases.
Does Costco sell manuka honey?
Yes, Costco often carries manuka honey. However, availability can vary depending on location and time of year. It’s best to check your local Costco or their website to confirm if they currently stock manuka honey.
Does Emuaid work for nail fungus?
Emuaid is an over-the-counter topical treatment that claims to have antifungal properties. Some users report positive results, but clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness against toenail fungus is limited. Individual results may vary.
Can you scrape out toenail fungus?
While you can carefully trim and file down thickened, infected parts of the nail, you cannot simply “scrape out” toenail fungus. The fungus lives within the nail bed and matrix, so topical or oral medications are needed to target the infection at its source. Aggressive scraping can also lead to injury and further infection.
Closing Thoughts
Mānuka oil is a natural alternative to traditional treatments for toenail fungus. It has antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties that can disrupt fungal cell membranes and stop them from growing.
If you decide to try mānuka oil, remember that you’ll get the best results if you use it consistently and practice good foot hygiene. Keep your feet clean and dry, and wear breathable socks and shoes.
Ultimately, the best way to deal with toenail fungus is to talk with a doctor or other healthcare professional. They can give you personalized advice and help you decide if mānuka oil is right for you.