Toenail fungus (onychomycosis) is a common infection that can be challenging to get rid of. Getting rid of nail fungus can take a long time, even with prescription medications. That’s why many people search for at-home remedies to help.
One remedy you may have heard about is olive oil. But can olive oil for nail fungus really help? Or could it serve as a carrier oil to make other remedies more effective?
This article will explore the potential of olive oil and other common home remedies to address toenail fungus.
Understanding toenail fungus
Toenail fungus is a common condition that can cause a great deal of frustration. It’s also known as onychomycosis.
Symptoms of toenail fungus
Toenail fungus can cause a number of noticeable changes to your toenails, including:
- Discoloration (yellowish, grayish, or brownish)
- Thickening
- Brittleness
- Deformation
- Unpleasant odor
In severe cases, the nail may even separate from the nail bed.
Causes and risk factors
Toenail fungus is usually caused by dermatophyte fungi, which thrive in warm, moist environments. Several factors can increase your risk of developing this infection:
- Wearing sweaty or damp shoes
- Going barefoot in public areas like swimming pools or locker rooms
- Experiencing nail injuries
- Poor hygiene
- Older age
Underlying health conditions like diabetes or poor circulation can also make you more susceptible to toenail fungus.
Olive oil and its potential role
While olive oil by itself may not be a heavy hitter against nail fungus, it can be useful as a “carrier oil.” This means it can help deliver other antifungal remedies, such as antifungal essential oils, right to the affected area. Think of it as the delivery truck for the real fungus fighters!
Olive oil does have some antifungal properties of its own, but they’re pretty limited compared to something like Neem nail oil. So, on its own, it might not get rid of the infection. But, because it’s moisturizing and soothing, it could offer a little extra help when you’re using other antifungal treatments.
One way to use olive oil is to mix it with stronger antifungal ingredients like oregano oil or garlic, or other essential oils for fungus nail. For example, you could crush a few garlic cloves, soak them in olive oil overnight, and then apply the mixture to your nails twice a day. The olive oil helps the garlic get where it needs to go!
Other home remedies for toenail fungus
If you’re looking for a way to treat your toenail fungus at home, you have a few options. Here’s a rundown of what’s known.
Established home remedies
- Tea tree oil. A review of studies in September 2022 showed that tea tree oil was as effective as clotrimazole cream, though the cure rate was low in both groups. Apply diluted tea tree oil cream to the infected toes two or three times each day.
- Garlic. Research on cells from October 2019 suggests that garlic may have antifungal properties. There was also a 2012 review in The Pharma Innovation Journal that looked at garlic.
- Ozonized sunflower oil. A September 2022 review indicated that ozonized sunflower oil was as effective as cream after three months. Apply ozonized sunflower oil to nails twice a day for three months.
- Epsom salts. Soaking your feet in Epsom salts might soften the nail and reduce inflammation. Put one to two cups of Epsom salts in warm water and soak your feet for 30 minutes.
Less conventional home remedies
- Vicks VapoRub. A January 2011 study of just 18 people found that 15 of them benefitted from using Vicks VapoRub. You can apply Vicks VapoRub under the nail with a cotton swab three or four times a week (or even daily).
- Listerine. Submerge your foot and nails in Listerine for 15 minutes two or three times a week.
Remedies to avoid
- Vinegar and hydrogen peroxide. Current research does not support the use of vinegar or hydrogen peroxide for toenail fungus.
- Oral natural remedies. Oral remedies like apple cider vinegar are not effective against toenail fungus.
Important Considerations for Home Treatment
If you’re trying to treat nail fungus at home, keep these things in mind:
Proper Nail Care
Trim your nails the right way. Soak your feet in warm water for about 10 minutes before you start. Use nail nippers to trim your nails straight across.
Also, be sure to sanitize your nail tools before and after each use to keep the infection from spreading. Family members should not share nail tools to avoid transmitting the fungus.
When to Seek Professional Help
If home remedies aren’t doing the trick or if the infection is getting worse, it’s time to see a doctor. This is especially important if you have diabetes or poor circulation.
Importance of Continued Treatment
Even if your nails start to look better, don’t stop treating them! Continue until the fungus is completely gone to prevent it from coming back. Toenails take a long time to regrow, sometimes 12 to 18 months, so be patient and stick with your treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did I cure my nail fungus?
While I can’t provide medical advice or specific treatment recommendations, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan for nail fungus. Effective treatments often involve prescription antifungal medications, either topical or oral, and good hygiene practices.
What kills nail fungus the fastest?
Oral antifungal medications typically offer the fastest results for treating nail fungus, but they can also carry potential side effects. Topical treatments may take longer to show improvement. A doctor can help you weigh the risks and benefits of each option to determine the most appropriate approach.
What worsens toenail fungus?
Several factors can worsen toenail fungus, including wearing tight-fitting shoes, excessive sweating, poor foot hygiene, nail injuries, and underlying health conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system. Keeping your feet clean and dry and avoiding trauma to the nails can help prevent the infection from spreading.
What kills fungus completely?
Complete eradication of nail fungus can be challenging, and recurrence is common. While antifungal medications are effective, they may not always eliminate the infection entirely. Consistent treatment, good hygiene, and addressing any underlying risk factors are crucial for achieving long-term success.
Can I apply olive oil on fungal infection?
While some sources suggest that olive oil has antifungal properties, there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness as a treatment for nail fungus. It may provide some moisturizing benefits, but it’s unlikely to eliminate the infection. It’s best to rely on proven medical treatments prescribed by a doctor.
Key Takeaways
Olive oil may help antifungal medications reach the nail fungus, but it won’t treat the fungus on its own. Taking care of your nails and keeping them clean can prevent fungus or keep it from getting worse.
Talk to your doctor if you think you have nail fungus. Toenail fungus can be hard to get rid of, so be patient and keep up with your treatment.