Onychomycosis sounds scarier than it is. Also known as fungal toenails, its symptoms include crumbling nails, thickening of the toenail, distortions in shape or darkening under the nail. A foul odor may sometimes also occur. A number of herbal remedies exist for toenail fungus, so resolving the problem may not be as difficult as you think.
Oil of oregano
Oregano demonstrates uses beyond the flavour it imparts into dishes. Amanda Ross, who publishes the Health e-Tips newsletter, picks out oil of oregano as a potent anti-fungal. The high content of phenolic acids and flavonoids exhibit a reliable anti-fungal effect when they come into contact with these organisms, but Ross warns not to use the oil directly on the skin because it may cause irritation. Instead, dilute it in a solution of olive oil.
Grapefruit seed extract
Grapefruit seed extract first garnered the attention of the medical community following the investigations of Dr. Jacob Harich, an Einstein Laureate scientist and immunologist, who analyzed the bitter compounds in the seeds. He found that, as well as containing a high content of proanthocynanin anti-oxidants and a wide array of flavonoids and minerals, the compound showed a strong anti-microbial effect, killing off viruses, bacteria and fungi. Although also consumed orally, grapeseed extract is widely available as a liquid formula which can be rubbed directly onto the nail.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil, also referred to as malaleuca oil, stands out as one of the most prized medicines in Australasia and one of the most studied. The oil contains a variety of different compounds that appear to work synergistically. Long known as an effective bactericidal agent, tea tree oil has also shown admirable ability in dealing with fungal infections. Dr. Hammer led a study, published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, which demonstrated a potent fungus-killing effect of malaleuca oil at just 0.03% concentration. To use the oil, you may apply directly to the affected areas.
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