Toenail fungus may be caused by exposure to germs in public swimming pools or shower areas, excessive foot perspiration, or nail injury, notes the National Institutes of Health. Individuals with immune complications such as diabetes, or a history of athlete's foot may be at particular risk, states integrative physician Dr. Andrew Weil. Fortunately, the over-the-counter Vicks VapoRub may be a useful home remedy, as its ingredients camphor, eucalyptus oil, and thymol serve several useful functions.
Always check with your physician before embarking on any holistic toenail fungus regimen.
Collapsed Candida Cells
Thymol damages the cell walls of the fungus Candida albicans, which reduces its viability, states the scientific journal Mycoses. Researchers from the University of Milan School of Medicine found that thymol inhibited the growth of hyphae, a filament-like extension of the fungus which has great importance in the virulence of the fungus. With fewer hyphae, the fungus is less destructive, the journal notes.
Defused Dermatophytes
Menthol, thymol, and eucalyptus citriodora oil control the growth of fungal pathogens, notes the journal Phytotherapy Research. Researchers from the University of Michigan studied the effects of a competing brand of chest rub in vitro, concluding that the ingredients lessened the impact of several dermatophytes, which are fungi that cause skin disease.
Pain Relief
Camphor is an analgesic which can relieve both pain and itching, notes Drugs.com. Individuals with severe fungus whose toenails have deep cracks, thick crusts, or markedly distorted nail shapes may experience significant discomfort, even while barefoot. In some cases, it may even be painful to walk, notes Dr. Andrew Weil. While Dr. Weil points out that the evidence supporting Vicks VapoRub is anecdotal, he suggests that individuals try applying the ointment on the affected toenails twice daily.
References
- National Institutes of Health: Fungal Nail Infection
- Mycoses: Inhibitory Activity of Thymol Against the Formation and Viability of Candida Albicans Hyphae
- Phytotherapy Research: In Vitro Antagonistic Activity of Monoterpenes and Their Mixtures Against 'Toe Nail fungus' Pathogens
- Drugs.com: Camphor Ointment
- Dr.Weil.com: Nailing Nail Fungus
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