Nail fungus is a common condition that can affect any part of your nail, including the nail plate, the nail bed, and the nail root.
Some people have found success in treating nail fungus with oil of oregano, while others explore options like Listerine for fingernail fungus. Oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol, compounds with antimicrobial properties that may help combat the infection.
What is Nail Fungus?
Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that affects your toenails or fingernails.
Nail fungus can affect different parts of the nail, including the nail plate, the nail bed, and the root of the nail.
If you have nail fungus, you might notice that your nails look different. Common symptoms include:
- Discoloration
- Thickening
- Crumbling
Nail fungus can also cause pain or discomfort, especially if left untreated.
What causes nail fungus?
Nail fungus is usually caused by one of two things:
- Dermatophytes, a common type of fungus
- Candida, the fungus responsible for yeast infections and thrush
These fungi can thrive in warm, moist environments, so it’s important to keep your feet clean and dry, potentially with solutions like chlorhexidine for fungus.
You’re more likely to get nail fungus if you:
- sweat a lot
- have injured a nail
- have a weakened immune system
Nail fungus spreads easily, so be sure to avoid sharing nail clippers or files with others.
Could oregano oil help?
Some people have found that oregano oil is helpful for nail fungus.
What’s in oregano oil?
Oregano oil contains antimicrobial elements, specifically carvacrol and thymol. Both of these elements are effective against fungi, including candida albicans and dermatophytes.
How does it work?
Oregano oil may fight fungal infections by disrupting the fungal cell membranes. To get the full benefit, it’s important to use high-quality, high-potency oregano oil.
Keep in mind
Keep in mind that oregano oil is not a replacement for prescription medication. You should use it under the guidance of a health professional, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
How to use oregano oil for nail fungus
If you’re going to try oregano oil, here’s how to use it:
- First, prep the nail by trimming it and filing down any thick or affected areas.
- Then, apply a few drops of oregano oil to the infected nail every day. Be sure to dilute the oregano oil with a carrier oil, like olive oil or coconut oil, to keep it from irritating your skin. Also, don’t put it on broken skin.
- Finally, be patient. It takes a long time for nails to regrow, so you have to keep up with the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the downside of oregano oil?
While oil of oregano is often touted for its antifungal properties, it’s important to be aware of potential downsides. It can be irritating to the skin, causing redness, burning, or even blistering, especially if used undiluted. Some people may also experience allergic reactions. Internally, it can interact with certain medications, so it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before use.
What worsens toenail fungus?
Several factors can worsen toenail fungus. These include wearing tight-fitting shoes that create a warm, moist environment, neglecting proper foot hygiene, having a weakened immune system, and underlying health conditions like diabetes. Trauma to the nail can also make it more susceptible to fungal infections.
Can you scrape out toenail fungus?
While you might be tempted to scrape out toenail fungus, it’s generally not effective and can potentially worsen the infection. Scraping can damage the nail bed and surrounding skin, creating an entry point for more bacteria or fungi. It’s best to seek professional treatment for nail fungus instead of attempting to remove it yourself.
How do you dilute oregano oil for nail fungus?
Due to its potency, oil of oregano MUST be diluted before applying it to the skin. A common recommendation is to mix one drop of oregano oil with one teaspoon of a carrier oil, such as olive oil, coconut oil, or almond oil. Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it to the entire affected nail to check for any adverse reactions.
What is the best oil to treat nail fungus?
While oil of oregano is a popular choice, there’s no single “best” oil for treating nail fungus. Tea tree oil is another well-known option with antifungal properties. Other oils like lavender oil and clove oil are sometimes used as well. The effectiveness of each oil can vary from person to person, and it’s always recommended to consult with a doctor or podiatrist for personalized advice and treatment options.
In Closing
Oregano oil might be a natural way to treat nail fungus, but you should use it carefully and consistently. If the infection is bad or won’t go away, talk to a doctor.