Although nail fungus can infect both toe nails and finger nails, this condition is more common on the toe nails. Commercial antifungal preparations are available, but tea tree oil provides a natural alternative treatment for nail fungus. Australian aborigines used tea tree leaves to treat minor wounds and researchers have known about the oil's medicinal properties since World War I.
Nail Fungus Basics
Fungi called dermatophytes, yeasts and molds can all be responsible for a nail fungus infection. These microorganisms enter the nail through weak areas in your skin or nail bed. Shoes create the moist, warm conditions in which fungi thrive. A white or yellow speck at the end of your nail is the first sign of infection. Over time, fungus causes thick, brittle, darkened nails.
Features of Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil comes from the Melaleuca alternifolia tree of Australia. The oil has proven antimicrobial properties, making it useful for treating fungal infections. The compound terpinen-4-ol might be responsible for this benefit. Quality tea tree oil should contain at least 30 percent terpinen-4-ol and ideally 40 percent to 50 percent for medicinal uses, note experts from the University of Michigan.
Effectiveness
Researchers have published little information from quality trials about tea tree oil's effectiveness on nail fungus. Conclusive evidence that the oil treats nail fungus is lacking. Still, the treatment shows promise. Treatment with 100 percent tea tree oil was as effective as the antifungal medication clotrimazole, according to a study published in the Journal of Family Practice in June 1994.
Application
Three or four times a day, apply 100 percent tea tree oil to affected nails with a cotton ball. You can also try alternating tea tree oil with Vicks Vaporub. This product might inhibit nail fungus, suggests Mayo Clinic medical experts. Vaseline is another option. Neither ointment is proven effective, though, so check with your health care provider before using these. To further discourage fungus, keep your nails short, wear synthetic socks to keep your feet dry and don't use nail polish.
Warnings
Side effects of tea tree oil range from mild irritation and itching to severe rashes and blisters. Avoid this oil if you're allergic to plants in the myrtle family, such as clove and eucalyptus. To check for adverse reactions, test a small amount of oil on your skin before treating your nails. Never take tea tree oil orally. Doing so can cause abdominal pain, diarrhea and impaired coordination.
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