Onychomycosis, better known as nail fungus, is a common condition that can affect toenails and fingernails. It can be unsightly, uncomfortable, and difficult to treat.
This article explores whether a mentholated salve can be an effective remedy for nail fungus.
While this article focuses on mentholated salve for nail fungus, keep in mind that there are many other potential treatments available. Some are available over the counter, while others require a prescription from a doctor.
Understanding toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that affects your toenails. It happens when fungi enter your nail through small cuts or separations between your nail and nail bed.
The risk of toenail fungus increases if you have poor foot hygiene, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.
Symptoms of toenail fungus
You may have toenail fungus if you notice:
- Discoloration of the nail (yellow, brown, or white)
- Thickening of the nail
- Brittleness and crumbling of the nail
- A distorted nail shape
- Pain or discomfort
Mentholated salve: What is it and how does it work?
You can find mentholated salves in most drugstores, and you probably already have some in your home. But what’s in it, and how could it help with nail fungus?
What’s in mentholated salve?
The key ingredients are menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oil. The base is usually petrolatum or a similar emollient.
How does it work?
Menthol makes your skin feel cool, and it also has analgesic properties, which means it can temporarily relieve pain. Some of the ingredients, such as eucalyptus oil, may have mild antifungal properties.
The emollient base helps to soften the nail, which may help other antifungals get to the infection more easily.
How have people used it in the past?
People have traditionally used mentholated salves for various skin conditions, and some people have reported that it helps with fungal infections.
Can mentholated salve treat toenail fungus?
You can find plenty of online anecdotes about people using mentholated salve to treat toenail fungus, but what does the science say?
Limited scientific evidence
The truth is that there haven’t been many studies that look specifically at mentholated salve as a toenail fungus treatment. Most of what’s out there is anecdotal — people sharing their personal experiences.
Potential benefits
Even without a ton of research, there are a few reasons why people might find mentholated salve helpful for toenail fungus:
- Temporary relief: The menthol can create a cooling sensation that eases pain and discomfort.
- Better penetration: Softening the nail might help other antifungal medications get in there and do their job.
- Mild antifungal properties: Some ingredients may have a slight antifungal effect.
Limitations and concerns
It’s important to be realistic about what mentholated salve can do:
- Not a cure: It probably won’t get rid of the infection all by itself.
- Treats symptoms, not the cause: It might make your toe feel better, but it’s not attacking the fungus itself.
- Allergic reactions: Some people are sensitive to ingredients like menthol or camphor and could have a reaction.
How to use mentholated salve for toenail fungus
Ready to give this a try? Here’s how to use mentholated salve to treat toenail fungus:
- Preparation: Make sure your affected nail is clean and dry.
- Application: Apply a thin layer of the mentholated salve to the nail and the skin around it.
- Frequency: You can do this once or twice a day.
- Duration: Keep applying the salve for weeks or even months, and keep an eye on the nail to see if it’s getting better.
You may also want to consider using the mentholated salve with another antifungal treatment to see if you get better results.
What else can treat toenail fungus?
The research is slim when it comes to mentholated salve and toenail fungus, so you may want to consider other options, including:
Over-the-counter antifungal treatments
Many creams and lotions contain clotrimazole or miconazole. Some research has found that these ingredients are more effective than mentholated salve alone. You can also find antifungal nail lacquers at your local drugstore.
Natural remedies
Some people swear by tea tree oil, which has antifungal properties, while others explore options like Kerassentials. Others like snakeroot extract, which some studies suggest may be effective.
Vinegar soaks may also help stop the fungus from growing.
Prescription treatments
If over-the-counter remedies don’t work, your doctor may prescribe topical or oral antifungal medications.
Oral medications, such as terbinafine and itraconazole, are usually prescribed for more severe infections.
Other treatments
Laser treatment is a newer option that looks promising. In severe cases, and as discussed in articles about how to file fungus toenails away, you may even need to have the nail removed.
When to See a Doctor
Mentholated salve might help with mild cases, but see a doctor if:
- Home remedies aren’t working.
- The infection gets worse or spreads to other nails.
- You have diabetes or a weak immune system (these conditions make infections harder to fight).
- You’re in pain or feeling uncomfortable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kills toenail fungus permanently?
Complete eradication of toenail fungus can be tricky. Prescription oral antifungals are often the most effective at permanently killing the fungus, but they come with potential side effects. Topical treatments, including some mentholated salves, can help manage the infection, but may not always eliminate it entirely.
What is the strongest antifungal over the counter?
Over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal medications typically contain ingredients like tolnaftate or clotrimazole. While they can help with mild cases, they are generally less potent than prescription options. Look for products specifically formulated for nail fungus, as these often have better penetration.
How do I get rid of nail fungus ASAP?
Unfortunately, there’s no instant cure for nail fungus. Even with the most effective treatments, it takes time for the affected nail to grow out and be replaced by a healthy one. Consistency with treatment is key, and consulting a doctor for prescription options can speed up the process.
Should I wear socks to bed with toenail fungus?
It’s generally best to wear clean, breathable cotton socks to bed if you have toenail fungus. This helps absorb moisture and prevents the fungus from thriving in a damp environment. Change your socks daily and wash them in hot water to kill any lingering fungus.
What is the most effective ointment for toenail fungus?
While mentholated salves can provide temporary relief from symptoms like itching and discomfort, they may not be the most effective treatment for actually eliminating the fungus. Prescription topical antifungals, or a combination of topical and oral medications prescribed by a doctor, are often considered more effective.
Wrapping Up
Mentholated salve can help you manage the symptoms of nail fungus, but as a guide to healthy nails will show you, it won’t cure the infection all by itself. It might make your nail feel better for a while and soften it, but it’s not a substitute for real treatment.
If you think you have nail fungus, see a doctor and get professional medical advice. Keeping your feet clean and dry can also help prevent nail fungus infections from happening in the first place.