Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common infection. If you have it, you probably know that it causes your toenails to thicken, discolor, and even become brittle.
Unfortunately, many of the treatments available over the counter or by prescription aren’t always effective and can cause side effects that are hard to live with.
That’s why some people are turning to alternative or complementary treatments for toenail fungus. Two of these treatments are DMSO and tea tree oil, while others explore options like diatomaceous earth for toenail fungus. Both DMSO and tea tree oil have shown promise because of their unique properties.
What is DMSO?
DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is a solvent with special chemical properties. It’s an organosulfur compound, which means it contains both sulfur and carbon. DMSO is a great solvent, which means it can dissolve other substances. It’s also able to pass through biological membranes, so it can get inside living tissues.
The FDA has approved DMSO for some medical uses, such as treating interstitial cystitis, a bladder condition.
How DMSO might help with toenail fungus
DMSO can help other antifungal medications get to the source of the infection by improving their ability to get through the nail plate.
DMSO may also have anti-inflammatory properties, which means it could reduce pain and swelling caused by a fungal infection.
Tea tree oil: Antifungal properties and benefits
What is tea tree oil?
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that comes from the Australian Melaleuca alternifolia tree, but other essential oils, such as peppermint oil, are also being researched for their antifungal properties.
People have used tea tree oil for a long time because of its antiseptic and antifungal properties.
Tea tree oil and toenail fungus
Tea tree oil contains compounds like terpinen-4-ol, which has antifungal activity against dermatophytes, the fungi that commonly cause toenail infections.
Tea tree oil might also break down fungal biofilms, which could make the infection easier to treat.
More research is needed to understand whether tea tree oil is effective against toenail fungus.
Can DMSO and tea tree oil fight toenail fungus together?
Some people use DMSO along with tea tree oil to treat toenail fungus. Here’s the idea behind this approach.
How might it work?
The idea is that DMSO helps the tea tree oil get deeper into the nail, where the fungus lives. Tea tree oil has antifungal properties, so getting more of it to the fungus might make it work better.
So, the combination could improve both how well the tea tree oil is delivered and how well it fights the fungus.
How to use it
If you decide to try this method, here’s how it’s usually done:
- Thoroughly clean and dry the affected toenail and the skin around it.
- Apply a thin layer of the DMSO and tea tree oil mixture to the nail and surrounding skin.
- Let it absorb completely.
People typically do this once or twice a day for several months. Consistency is important.
Things to keep in mind
There are some potential side effects, like skin irritation, allergic reactions, or an odor from the DMSO. It’s also important to dilute the tea tree oil, as it can irritate the skin if it’s too strong.
Before you start using this treatment, it’s best to talk to a healthcare professional. This is especially important if you have any other health conditions.
Compounded formulations and alternatives
If you’re thinking about using DMSO and tea tree oil to treat toenail fungus, you should also know that compounding pharmacies can create customized formulas to meet individual needs.
Compounding pharmacies can create customized formulas that may:
- offer higher concentrations of either ingredient
- add other antifungal agents to the treatment
Some compounding pharmacies add ingredients like urea, ibuprofen, or prescription antifungal medications like ciclopirox to their formulas, while other natural remedies like green tea for toenail fungus are also being explored.
If you’re interested in trying DMSO and tea tree oil, consider talking to a compounding pharmacist. They can help you create a formula that’s right for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What worsens toenail fungus?
Several factors can exacerbate toenail fungus. These include a warm, moist environment (like sweaty socks), poor hygiene, trauma to the nail, wearing tight-fitting shoes, and having underlying health conditions like diabetes or a weakened immune system. Even small cracks in your nails can provide entry points for the fungus.
What is the number one toenail fungus remover?
There’s no single “number one” treatment that works for everyone. Prescription oral antifungal medications are often considered the most effective, but they come with potential side effects. Topical treatments, including prescription and over-the-counter options, are also available. The best treatment depends on the severity of the infection and individual factors, so consulting a doctor is crucial.
Does DMSO get rid of toenail fungus?
DMSO (dimethyl sulfoxide) is used to enhance the penetration of other medications into the nail. While DMSO itself isn’t an antifungal, it can help deliver antifungal agents more effectively. More research is needed to determine its overall effectiveness in treating toenail fungus.
Can you mix DMSO with tea tree oil?
Yes, DMSO can be mixed with tea tree oil to potentially enhance the oil’s antifungal properties and penetration. However, it’s crucial to dilute both substances properly and test a small area of skin first to check for any adverse reactions. Consult with a healthcare professional before trying this combination.
What one cup of this will destroy your nail fungus?
There’s no single beverage that can magically cure toenail fungus. While anecdotal claims exist about certain drinks, such as apple cider vinegar, no scientific evidence supports this. Focus on proven treatments and consult with a doctor for the best approach to resolving your toenail fungus.
Closing Thoughts
Using DMSO and tea tree oil to fight toenail fungus might work, but more research needs to be done. While there is some evidence that these treatments can help, the research hasn’t completely proven that they’re effective.
It’s important to see a doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan. Your doctor can help you figure out the best way to deal with your toenail fungus and keep an eye on your progress. If you don’t see a doctor, you might not get the right treatment, or you might miss another problem that’s causing your symptoms.
Keep in mind that toenail fungus can be hard to treat. Whatever treatment you and your doctor choose, it will likely take time and consistency to see results.