Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common condition that causes your nails to become thick, discolored, and brittle. It can be unsightly and even painful. Traditional treatments for nail fungus can take a long time and aren’t always effective.
That’s why people are increasingly interested in natural remedies like witch hazel. Witch hazel has natural antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, so some people wonder if it can help resolve a nail fungus infection.
This article explores the potential benefits of using witch hazel for nail fungus, how to use it, and some of its limitations if you’re considering it as a treatment option.
What is nail fungus?
Nail fungus, also called onychomycosis, is a common condition that begins as a white or yellow spot under the tip of your fingernail or toenail. As the fungal infection goes deeper, nail fungus may cause your nail to discolor, thicken and crumble at the edge.
What causes nail fungus?
Dermatophytes, a type of fungus that feeds on keratin, are the most common cause of nail infections. Other causes include yeasts and molds.
Risk factors
Nail fungus happens more often in people who:
- are older
- have diabetes
- have poor circulation
- have injured a nail
- have sweaty feet
- use communal showers
Symptoms and diagnosis
Nail fungus symptoms include:
- thickening of the nail
- discoloration (yellow, white, or brown)
- brittle texture
- distorted shape
- separation from the nail bed
To diagnose nail fungus, your doctor will usually examine your nails. They may also take a nail clipping to test in a lab and confirm the type of fungus.
What is witch hazel?
Witch hazel is an extract from the shrub Hamamelis virginiana. It’s been used for generations in folk medicine.
The extract contains tannins, which are known to have:
- astringent properties
- anti-inflammatory properties
- antioxidant properties
Because of these properties, people have traditionally used witch hazel to relieve:
- skin irritations
- inflammation
- minor wounds
Today, you can find witch hazel in many skincare products made to treat:
- acne
- eczema
- insect bites
Could it also help with nail fungus? Well, it’s possible. Experts believe that witch hazel’s tannins and other compounds have antifungal properties that might fight fungal infections.
Can witch hazel help with nail fungus?
You may already know that witch hazel can help soothe itchy skin, but can it help with nail fungus? While there aren’t many studies looking at witch hazel and nail fungus specifically, here’s what we know.
How it might work
Witch hazel contains tannins, which are compounds that may be able to stop fungus from growing. Tannins can damage proteins and disrupt the membranes of fungal cells.
There hasn’t been a lot of research on how witch hazel fights the specific fungi that cause nail infections. Still, it has properties that could help.
Anti-inflammatory and healing
Witch hazel can decrease inflammation around the infected nail. Inflammation can get in the way of healing and make the infection even worse.
Also, witch hazel can speed up wound healing, which is helpful if the skin around your nail is damaged.
What to keep in mind
There’s not much scientific proof that witch hazel works for nail fungus, so it might not work for serious infections.
In addition, some people might get skin irritation or have an allergic reaction to witch hazel.
If you have a severe case of nail fungus, prescription medications are more likely to help. Witch hazel is not a substitute for prescription medicine.
How to use witch hazel for nail fungus
Before trying any home remedy, remember that it’s always a good idea to talk with a healthcare professional about any health concerns you may have.
Here’s how you can use witch hazel for nail fungus, if your doctor approves:
Preparation and Application
- Clean and dry the infected nail completely.
- Trim the nail to get rid of any loose or damaged pieces.
- Apply witch hazel directly to the nail and the skin around it. A cotton ball or pad works well for this. Make sure you cover the whole area.
- Let it air dry.
How often and how long?
To get the best results, apply witch hazel a few times each day, like two or three times. Keep using it for several weeks or even months. It all depends on how bad the infection is.
Remember, you have to use it regularly to see any improvement.
Things to watch out for
Before you start using witch hazel on your nail, do a quick test on a small patch of skin. This helps you make sure you’re not allergic to it.
If you notice any irritation, redness, or swelling, stop using it right away.
Also, be careful not to get it in your eyes or on sensitive skin. And, like with any product, keep it away from children.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to starve nail fungus?
Starving nail fungus involves creating an environment that’s less conducive to its growth. This includes keeping your feet clean and dry, trimming nails short, wearing breathable socks and shoes, and avoiding prolonged exposure to moisture. A healthy diet and immune system also contribute to starving the fungus by making your body less hospitable.
What is the sock trick for toenail fungus?
The “sock trick” involves changing your socks multiple times a day if your feet sweat excessively. The idea is to remove moisture that encourages fungal growth. Opt for moisture-wicking socks and thoroughly dry your feet before putting on a fresh pair. This helps create a drier environment less favorable for the fungus.
What dries out nail fungus?
Creating a dry environment is key to combating nail fungus. After showering or swimming, thoroughly dry your feet, especially between the toes. Antifungal powders or sprays can also help absorb excess moisture. Avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes that trap moisture and humidity.
Can you put witch hazel on an infected toe?
While witch hazel isn’t a primary treatment for nail fungus, its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties might offer some relief from symptoms like itching or irritation. It’s not a substitute for antifungal medications but can be used as a supplementary remedy to cleanse the affected area. Always consult with a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Does witch hazel help with fungus?
Witch hazel has mild antifungal properties, but it’s not typically considered a potent treatment for nail fungus, unlike a mentholated salve as recommended by a doctor. Its main benefits lie in its ability to reduce inflammation and cleanse the area, potentially creating a less favorable environment for fungal growth. However, for effective treatment, prescription or over-the-counter antifungal medications are generally recommended.
Key Takeaways
Witch hazel might help with nail fungus. Because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, and because it may speed up healing, witch hazel could be a useful tool in fighting a nail infection. However, there isn’t much scientific evidence to back this up.
If you think you have a nail fungus, talk with your doctor to get a diagnosis and discuss treatment options. Witch hazel can be used as part of a treatment plan, but don’t use it instead of a proven treatment like tea tree oil for nail fungus unless your doctor says it’s okay.
More research is needed to find out if witch hazel really works for nail fungus, and if so, how best to use it.