Fungi are primitive vegetables that exist in the air, in the soil, on plants and on the human body, assert MedlinePlus. Many fungi are not harmful, but some can cause irritating skin conditions such as tinea, which causes ringworm, athlete's foot and jock itch. Killing these organisms can prove difficult even after regular antifungal treatments that include creams and oral applications. Herbal essential oils have a long history as fungicides. Nonetheless, there is still little scientific evidence illustrating their influence on fungi. Seek professional medical care should a fungal infection appear and persist for an extended time period.
Lemongrass Essential Oil
Lemongrass oil is naturally antifungal, antimicrobial and antiseptic. It is helpful in treating fungal infections, especially ringworm as it contains analgesic qualities where it acts to numb irritation associated with this skin condition, according to the Organic Facts website. Procuring lemongrass oil requires extraction through steam distillation of the dried herb. It contains myrcene, citronella, limonene and citral. These compounds provide the many healing properties, such as the antimicrobial and antibacterial properties it exhibits. Blending this oil with basil, jasmine or lavender oils doubles the medicinal properties.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree essential oil helps to keep the skin, hair follicles and other general areas free of bacteria and fungus, according to the International Aromatherapy and Herb Association. Many fungal infections, such as tinea, can infiltrate healthy hair follicles causing the hair to die and fall out. This results in characteristic baldness associated with ringworm of the scalp. Applying tea tree oil with regular shampoo can provide moisture while warding off bacterial and fungal infections. When applied to wounds, for example, tea tree oil can effectively circumvent infection due to the naturally occurring antiseptic qualities, reports the Organic Facts website.
Coconut Essential Oil
Coconut essential oil contains lauric acid, which is responsible for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, states the Organic Facts website. Not only does this compound safeguard the body against a plethora of infections, it also provides essential moisture and minerals to the skin. It can additionally help prevent wrinkles and aging, while treating skin infections, dermatitis and eczema, for example. A 2007 National Institutes of Health study found that coconut essential oil was active against the fungus candida, or yeast. The Bureau of Agricultural Research also acknowledges the many medicinal properties of coconut in fighting fungus and other microbes.
