Toenail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common infection that you can get in your toenails or fingernails. If you’ve got it, you’re probably looking for a way to get rid of it! That’s why so many people are interested in using oil for fungus nail.
Many different kinds of treatments, including options like Blue Star Ointment, have been suggested for managing toenail fungus at home. This article will tell you about the different types of oils you can use, how to apply them, and when you need to see a doctor.
Understanding toenail fungus
Toenail fungus is a common condition that can be frustrating to deal with. Let’s take a closer look at what it is, what causes it, and how to identify it.
What is toenail fungus?
Toenail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a fungal infection that affects the toenails. It can be caused by different kinds of fungi, including dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds.
Toenail fungus can present with symptoms such as:
- Discoloration of the nail (yellow, white, brown, or black)
- Thickening of the nail
- Nails that crumble or are brittle
- Distorted nail shape
- Separation of the nail from the nail bed
What causes toenail fungus?
Fungal organisms can enter the nail through cracks or cuts in the nail or surrounding skin. Several risk factors can make you more likely to get toenail fungus, including:
- Older age
- Nail injuries
- Athlete’s foot
- Excessive sweating
- Diabetes
- Weakened immune system
- Poor circulation
Best Oils for Treating Toenail Fungus
Many people want to try natural treatments for toenail fungus before they move on to prescription medications, including exploring options like ginger. While there’s not a lot of research to back up the use of essential oils for toenail fungus, some oils have properties that may help.
Tea Tree Oil
- Antifungal properties: Tea tree oil contains compounds thought to have both antifungal and antiseptic properties.
- How it works: The compounds in tea tree oil may disrupt the fungal cell membrane, which can stop the fungus from growing.
- Research and evidence: While early research shows promise, more studies are needed to know for sure.
- How to use it: Put a few drops of tea tree oil directly on the affected nail twice a day. You may want to dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut oil to keep it from irritating your skin.
Oregano Oil
- Antifungal properties: Oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol, which are strong antifungal compounds.
- How it works: These compounds may prevent fungal growth by damaging cell membranes.
- Research and evidence: There’s not a lot of research on oregano oil, but some studies suggest it may be effective against different kinds of fungi.
- How to use it: Dilute oregano oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Put it on the affected nail twice a day. Be careful when you use it, because it can irritate your skin.
Other Potentially Beneficial Oils
- Lavender Oil: Lavender has antiseptic and antifungal properties.
- Clove Oil: Clove oil contains eugenol, which may have antifungal properties.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil can be used as a carrier oil, and its medium-chain fatty acids may have some antifungal properties.
How to use oils effectively for toenail fungus
For any oil treatment to work, you need to be consistent and follow some steps:
- Prepare the nail: Trim and file away as much of the infected nail as you can. Then, buff the surface of the nail to help the oil absorb.
- Apply the oil: Mix your essential oil with a carrier oil to prevent irritation. Then, apply it directly to the infected nail and the skin around it. Massage the oil into the nail bed gently.
- Be consistent: Apply the oil twice a day.
It’s important to understand that consistency is key. You’ll need to keep up with this routine for weeks or even months to see a noticeable difference.
Precautions and Potential Side Effects
Essential oils can be helpful, but they can also cause side effects if you’re not careful. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Skin Irritation: Essential oils can burn or irritate your skin. Always dilute them with a carrier oil first. Test a small area of skin before applying to the whole nail.
- Allergic Reactions: Some people are allergic to certain essential oils. Stop using the oil if you have an allergic reaction.
- Drug Interactions: If you’re taking any medications, check with your doctor before using essential oils, as they could interact with certain drugs.
- Not a Substitute for Medical Treatment: Essential oils may not be enough to treat severe infections. See a doctor for medical advice if your symptoms get worse or don’t improve.
When to see a doctor
If you’ve been faithfully applying oils for several weeks with no improvement, it’s time to see a doctor. And don’t delay seeking medical advice if you notice any of the following:
- Your nail is getting thicker, more discolored, or misshapen.
- The area around your nail is swollen, red, tender, warm, or oozing pus.
- You have diabetes or a weakened immune system (because nail fungus can lead to more serious problems in these cases).
- You develop a fever, red streaks, or pain you can’t tolerate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the sock trick for toenail fungus?
The “sock trick” usually refers to soaking cotton balls in an antifungal solution (like tea tree oil or vinegar) and applying them to the affected toenail, then covering with a sock overnight. It aims to keep the antifungal in contact with the fungus for an extended period. While some find it helpful, it’s best used alongside other treatments.
Should I cut my toenail off if it has fungus?
No, you shouldn’t attempt to cut off your toenail yourself. This can lead to infection and complications. A doctor may surgically remove the nail in severe cases, but this is a last resort. Instead, focus on topical or oral antifungal treatments as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
What kills toenail fungus permanently?
Complete eradication of toenail fungus can be challenging, and “permanent” cures aren’t guaranteed. Oral antifungal medications, prescribed by a doctor, have the highest success rates. Topical treatments can work, but often take longer and are less effective for severe infections. Laser therapy is another option, but its long-term efficacy is still being studied.
What oil is good for fungal infections?
Tea tree oil is often cited for its antifungal properties. Other oils like lavender, clove, and oregano oil (diluted!) may also have some antifungal effects. However, remember that these are complementary treatments and may not be as effective as prescribed medications.
Does oil stop fungus?
Certain oils, like tea tree oil, possess antifungal properties that can inhibit fungal growth. However, they may not completely eradicate the fungus, especially in severe cases. Oils are often used as a supplementary treatment alongside conventional antifungal medications for toenail fungus.
Putting It All Together
Tea tree oil and oregano oil may help with toenail fungus because of their antifungal properties. However, if you have a severe case, or if you have underlying health problems, it’s important to see a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan. You can also prevent future infections by keeping your feet and nails clean and healthy, perhaps by incorporating a herbal foot soak for fungus into your routine.