Nail fungal infections can affect one or more of your nails and usually begin as either a white or yellow spot under the tip of a fingernail or toenail. Common symptoms include discoloration, nail thickening and crumbling of the nail edges, which can not only be unsightly but also painful. Natural herbal treatments may help to eliminate these fungal infections, although sufficient scientific data proving its efficacy is lacking. If your nail fungus persists, contact your health care provider.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil, derived from the tea tree leaf, is a traditional folk medicine remedy for nail fungus, according to "Earl Mindell's New Herb Bible." It is both antifungal and antibacterial, effectively fighting detrimental fungi while preventing secondary bacterial infections. Mindell recommends apply tea tree oil directly to your nails two to three times per day without rinsing. In some cases, especially those with sensitive skin, you may require a carrier oil, like olive, to dilute the tea tree oil.
Thyme
Thyme contains the compound thymol, which is responsible for its antimicrobial properties, according to Frank Hoffmann and Martin Manning in "Herbal Medicine and Botanical Medical Fads." This inexpensive yet effective herb may help to eliminate fungal infections, especially those beginning with athlete's foot. Hoffmann and Manning recommend steeping 3/4 cup thyme leaves in 3 cups boiling water for at least 15 minutes and then soaking the hands or feet in the solution three times a day for 20 to 30 minutes. The thymol will also help relax tense muscles and tighten blood vessels.
Essential Oils
An essential oil combination treatment can provide dual-action infection-fighting activity for nail fungus. If you have constant exposure to detergents, nail polish, glue for artificial fingernails, formaldehyde-based nail hardeners or household chemicals, you may be at risk for a nail fungal infection, says H. Panda in "The Complete Technology Book on Herbal Beauty Products with Formulations and Processes." A combination of tea tree essential oil, cinnamon bark essential oil and neem oil can get rid of nail fungus while providing necessary moisture and antibacterial benefits, Panda says. Panda also recommends soaking the nails in lavender, bay laurel and sandalwood essential oil after the initial treatment to treat irritated cuticles.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Nail Fungus
- "Earl Mindell's New Herb Bible"; Earl Mindell; 2000
- "Herbal Medicine and Botanical Medical Fads"; Frank Hoffmann and Martin Manning; 2002
- "The Complete technology Book on Herbal Beauty Products with Formulations and Processes"; H. Panda; 2005
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