Toenail fungus is a common fungal contamination of the nail. It’s also called onychomycosis, and it can be notoriously difficult to get rid of. For that reason, many people turn to home remedies to try to clear up the infection.
Prescription medications are also available, but some people prefer to try natural remedies first. That’s why you see a lot of suggestions out there for using things like tea tree oil, baking soda, and even just plain old vinegar.
But what about olive oil? You’ll often see olive oil recommended as a carrier oil. So, is there something special about olive oil and its ability to treat nail fungus?
This article will explore the causes and symptoms of toenail fungus and whether olive oil, either alone or as part of a home remedy, can actually help to manage it.
Understanding toenail fungus
Toenail fungus can be unsightly and uncomfortable. It’s caused by a fungal infection that gets in between your toenail and your toe.
Symptoms of toenail fungus
If you have toenail fungus, you may notice:
- Nail discoloration: The nail may be yellow, gray, or brown.
- Nail distortion: The nail may get thicker, more brittle, and deformed.
- Odor: Toenail fungus can cause a foul smell.
Causes and risk factors
Dermatophytes are the fungi that usually cause toenail infections.
You’re more likely to get toenail fungus if you: But it’s also helpful to know how long toenail fungus lives in shoes.
- Wear sweaty or damp shoes
- Go barefoot in public spaces
- Are older
- Have poor circulation or diabetes
Olive oil as a carrier oil for antifungal remedies
You may have heard about using olive oil for nail fungus, but most of the time, people use it to help other remedies work better.
What are carrier oils?
A carrier oil is a base oil that can dilute stronger, more concentrated oils to reduce the risk of skin irritation. The carrier oil can also help your skin absorb the other oil more effectively.
Olive oil is a common carrier oil. It’s easy to find in most homes, and it’s not too expensive. It also has moisturizing qualities that can help your nails and the skin around them.
Antifungal combinations with olive oil
Here are some combinations of oils that people use to treat nail fungus, but you may also want to explore options like grapefruit seed extract for nail fungus.
- Olive oil and oregano oil. Oregano oil is well-known for its antifungal properties. Mix a few drops of oregano oil with olive oil and apply it to the affected nail.
- Olive oil and garlic. Garlic also contains compounds with antifungal properties. Crush some garlic cloves, soak them in olive oil, and apply the oil to your nail. A 2019 study done on cells suggests that garlic could be a helpful antifungal.
- Olive oil and tea tree oil. Tea tree oil may be as effective as clotrimazole, an antifungal medication, according to some studies, but other options like Daktarin cream for nail fungus also exist. Be sure to dilute tea tree oil in olive oil before applying it to your nail.
Other Popular Home Remedies for Toenail Fungus
If olive oil isn’t for you, here are some other popular home remedies people try for toenail fungus.
Listerine Antiseptic Mouthwash
Listerine contains ingredients with antiseptic properties, which is why some people try it on toenail fungus.
To use it, submerge your foot and nails in Listerine for about 15 minutes two or three times per week. While it’s not necessarily effective, some people prefer less aggressive treatments.
Vicks VapoRub
Vicks VapoRub also has ingredients with antiseptic properties.
To use it, apply Vicks VapoRub under the nail with a cotton swab at least three or four times per week. A small study from January 2011 showed that it helped some of the participants.
Ozonized Sunflower Oil
Some people use ozonized sunflower oil on toenail fungus.
A review from September 2022 showed that it was helpful compared to antifungal cream.
To use it, apply it to your nails twice a day for three months.
Important Considerations and Precautions
If you decide to try treating nail fungus with olive oil, here are some things to keep in mind:
Consistency and Patience
Home remedies only work if you use them consistently, and it can take a long time to see results. Full nail regrowth can take up to 18 months. Don’t give up!
Nail Care and Hygiene
- Trim your nails regularly to keep the fungus from spreading.
- Sanitize your nail clippers and other tools, so you don’t re-infect yourself.
- Soak your feet in warm water for about 10 minutes before trimming your nails to soften them.
When to Seek Professional Help
If olive oil isn’t cutting it, or if the infection is getting worse, see a doctor. You should also seek professional help if you have diabetes or poor circulation, as these conditions can make nail fungus infections more difficult to treat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if you put olive oil on your nails?
Applying olive oil to your nails can help moisturize and strengthen them, potentially reducing brittleness and promoting healthy growth. It’s a natural emollient, so it can help lock in moisture and improve the overall appearance of your nails and cuticles.
What deficiency causes nail fungus?
Nail fungus isn’t directly caused by a specific vitamin or mineral deficiency. However, a weakened immune system, which can be linked to nutritional deficiencies, may make you more susceptible to fungal infections. Maintaining a balanced diet supports overall health and immune function.
What worsens toenail fungus?
Several factors can worsen toenail fungus, including wearing tight-fitting shoes that create a warm, moist environment, poor foot hygiene, injuries to the nail, and underlying health conditions like diabetes. Exposure to communal areas like swimming pools and locker rooms can also increase the risk of spreading the infection.
Can olive oil cure nail fungus?
While olive oil has some antifungal properties, there’s limited scientific evidence to suggest it can effectively cure nail fungus on its own. It may help as a supportive treatment to keep the area moisturized, but it’s not a replacement for clinically proven antifungal medications.
What is the best oil to treat nail fungus?
Tea tree oil is generally considered one of the best oils for treating nail fungus due to its known antifungal properties. Other oils like lavender oil and clove oil also have antifungal benefits and may be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Always consult with a doctor before starting any new treatment, and remember that oils are often used as complementary therapies, not standalone cures.
To Conclude
While olive oil itself isn’t an antifungal treatment, it can be a good carrier oil when you’re using other natural antifungal remedies, like oregano oil or garlic. When you’re trying to get rid of nail fungus with home remedies, remember that patience and good nail hygiene are key.
If you’re not seeing any improvement with home treatments, or if you have underlying health conditions, talk with your doctor. They can help you explore other treatment options and rule out other causes.
Taking care of your feet is an important part of taking care of your overall health, so don’t ignore potential issues.