Nail fungus, also known as onychomycosis, is a common infection that causes nails to thicken, discolor, and even crumble. It can be unsightly and even painful.
Tea tree oil, also called melaleuca oil, is an essential oil extracted from the Australian tea tree. It is often suggested as a natural treatment for many conditions, including nail fungus.
But does tea tree oil really work on nail fungus? This article explores the research.
What is nail fungus?
Nail fungus is a common condition that affects the toenails more often than the fingernails. It’s caused by microscopic organisms such as dermatophytes, yeasts, and molds that thrive in warm, moist environments.
Nail fungus can be triggered by:
- not keeping your feet or hands clean and dry
- nail injuries
- weakened immune systems
If you have nail fungus, you may notice that your nails:
- are discolored (yellowish or brownish)
- are thicker than usual
- are brittle or crumbly
- separate from the nail bed
Conventional treatments
Conventional medicine uses oral antifungal medications like terbinafine and itraconazole, as well as topical medications like ciclopirox, to treat nail fungus. You might also want to explore alternative treatments like Forces of Nature Nail Fungus Extra Strength. However, these treatments can have side effects, take a long time to work, and don’t always prevent the fungus from coming back.
What can tea tree oil do?
What is tea tree oil?
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that comes from the Melaleuca alternifolia tree. People have traditionally used it as an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory remedy as well as to fight fungal infections.
Research on antifungal activity
Tea tree oil contains terpinen-4-ol and other compounds that may be effective against certain fungi and bacteria, similar to the synergistic antifungal effects discovered in lavender oil. Although research shows tea tree oil has antifungal properties, there are not many studies on tea tree oil and nail fungus specifically.
Tea Tree Oil for Nail Fungus: What the Research Says
So, does tea tree oil really work for nail fungus? The research hasn’t shown tea tree oil, whether it’s used on its own or combined with other treatments, to be effective in treating toenail fungus.
That being said, some studies suggest that it might help reduce symptoms if you use it consistently. But here’s the deal: the current evidence isn’t conclusive. To know for sure, we need more rigorous, large-scale studies.
How to use tea tree oil for nail fungus
If you want to try tea tree oil, here’s what you should do:
- Dilute the tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
- Apply the diluted oil to the affected nail twice per day.
Be patient! It can take weeks or months to see visible results. You should also talk to your doctor about combining tea tree oil with other antifungal treatments.
Safety and Side Effects
Using tea tree oil topically on your nails can cause skin irritation, allergic reactions, itching, stinging, burning, scaling, redness, and dryness.
Before you slather tea tree oil on your nails, test it on a small patch of skin first. And whatever you do, don’t swallow it! Tea tree oil is toxic when ingested.
If you have any existing skin conditions or experience any irritation, or want a doctor’s perspective on mentholated salves for nail fungus, talk to your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I wash off tea tree oil after applying?
Generally, you don’t need to wash off tea tree oil after applying it to nail fungus. Allow the oil to absorb into the nail and surrounding skin. However, if you experience irritation, rinse with mild soap and water and discontinue use.
What kills toenail fungus permanently?
No treatment guarantees permanent elimination of toenail fungus, as recurrence is always possible. However, prescription antifungal medications (oral or topical) often offer the best chance of eradication. Tea tree oil can help manage the infection, but is less likely to completely eliminate it.
Can you put straight tea tree oil on nail fungus?
While some people use undiluted tea tree oil, it’s generally recommended to dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil. This helps reduce the risk of skin irritation. A typical dilution is a few drops of tea tree oil per teaspoon of carrier oil.
How long does it take for fungus to go away with tea tree oil?
Tea tree oil is a slow-acting treatment. It can take several weeks or even months of consistent use to see noticeable improvement. Patience and diligence are key. If you don’t see improvement within a few months, consider consulting a doctor for alternative treatments.
What one cup of this will destroy your nail fungus?
There’s no single drink that will “destroy” nail fungus. Claims like this are often misleading. While maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated is beneficial for overall health, topical or oral antifungal treatments are necessary to directly target the fungus.
Final Thoughts
Tea tree oil may help with nail fungus, but the research is limited. If you think you have nail fungus, talk to your doctor about treatment options. Using tea tree oil in addition to a treatment plan from your doctor may be a good option.