Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a pretty common infection that can affect either your fingernails or toenails. You’ll know it when you see it: discoloration, thickening, and even crumbling of the nail. This is especially important to consider if painting toenails black, as the color can mask early signs of fungus.
One potential treatment you might hear about is gentian violet. Gentian violet is a topical antiseptic dye that has antifungal properties, which is why it’s sometimes used to treat skin and fungal infections.
So, can gentian violet treat nail fungus? This article will explore the uses of gentian violet, precautions you should take, and potential side effects if you use it to treat nail fungus.
Understanding gentian violet
What is gentian violet?
Gentian violet is a topical antiseptic dye and antifungal that you can buy without a prescription. You can use it to treat certain skin infections, such as ringworm and athlete’s foot, as well as minor cuts and scrapes.
Gentian violet has been around for a long time. It’s important to know that there are some safety concerns around its use, so you should use it carefully and as directed.
How gentian violet works
Gentian violet is an antifungal agent that works by disrupting the cell walls of fungi. When the cell walls are disrupted, the fungi can’t grow and spread. Gentian violet works well against many different kinds of fungi.
Using Gentian Violet for Nail Fungus: A Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re going to try gentian violet for nail fungus, here’s how to do it right:
- Preparation: Cleaning the Affected Area
Before you get started, make sure the area is clean. You want to apply the gentian violet to a dry nail, so give it time to air dry after cleaning. Some also consider using urea cream for toenail fungus in conjunction with other treatments.
- Application Technique
This is key: only apply the gentian violet to the infected part of the nail. It’s potent stuff, so try not to get it on healthy skin. Use a cotton swab or applicator to be precise.
- Frequency and Duration of Treatment
Follow the directions on the label, or your doctor’s instructions, and use it consistently. Even if your nail looks better, finish the treatment. You don’t want the fungus to come back!
- Post-Application Care
Let the gentian violet dry completely before you cover it up with socks or shoes. Consider using an antifungal shoe spray to further prevent reinfection. And wash your hands thoroughly after you’re done applying it.
Precautions and potential side effects
Gentian violet is available over the counter, but it’s important to use it with care. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Important precautions before use
- Allergies: If you have allergies, especially to similar dyes, talk with a doctor before using gentian violet.
- Other medical conditions: Be sure to tell your doctor about any other health issues you have.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it’s especially important to consult with your doctor before using gentian violet, since it can be absorbed into your system.
Potential side effects
- Common side effects: Gentian violet can sometimes cause redness, swelling, or irritation where it’s applied.
- Serious side effects: If you notice signs of a skin infection getting worse, such as increased pain, swelling, redness, pus, or fever, contact your doctor right away.
- Staining: This medicine stains everything it touches a deep purple color. Be careful when applying it, and wear old clothing.
Interactions and storage
Drug interactions
Gentian violet can interact with other medications, so it’s important to keep a current list of all the medications you’re taking and share it with your doctor and pharmacist.
When you’re talking with your doctor, be sure to let them know about any food, beverages, or tobacco products that you use regularly.
Proper storage and disposal
To store gentian violet properly, keep it at room temperature, away from direct light, heat, and moisture.
It’s also important to follow all instructions for getting rid of gentian violet once you no longer need it.
When to Seek Medical Advice
Gentian violet can be a useful home remedy, but it’s important to know when you need to see a doctor.
- Worsening symptoms: If your symptoms worsen, or if you notice anything unusual, tell your doctor.
- Signs of allergic reaction: Get immediate medical help if you develop signs of an allergic reaction, like a rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Lack of improvement: If you’ve been using gentian violet for a few weeks and you don’t see any improvement, talk to your doctor. They can help you figure out what’s going on and recommend the best course of action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Vicks VapoRub work on nail fungus?
Some anecdotal evidence suggests Vicks VapoRub can help with nail fungus due to ingredients like camphor, eucalyptus oil, and menthol, which may have antifungal properties. However, it’s not a scientifically proven treatment and might only provide temporary relief or work for mild cases.
Why is gentian violet banned?
Gentian violet isn’t universally banned, but its use is restricted in some countries due to concerns about potential carcinogenicity and mutagenicity in animal studies. While the risk to humans is considered low, regulatory agencies often take a cautious approach.
Which is better, Nystatin or gentian violet?
Nystatin and gentian violet are both antifungals but treat different types of fungal infections. Nystatin is typically used for Candida infections, while gentian violet has a broader spectrum of activity. For nail fungus, neither is usually a first-line treatment, and prescription antifungals are often more effective.
What kills nail fungus the fastest?
Oral antifungal medications, prescribed by a doctor, are generally the fastest way to kill nail fungus. Topical treatments may work for mild cases, but they often take much longer and require consistent application for several months.
How to remove gentian violet from nails?
Removing gentian violet stains from nails can be tricky. Try using rubbing alcohol, nail polish remover, or a mixture of baking soda and water. Repeated applications and gentle scrubbing may be needed, and some staining may persist for a while.
Conclusion
Gentian violet can be an effective treatment for nail fungus if you use it correctly. But it’s important to follow the directions, watch out for side effects, and get medical advice from a professional. They can give you the best advice for your situation.