A fungal infection of the toenails, called onychomycosis, causes the toenails to become thickened and unsightly. It typically begins as a small yellow or white spot that eventually spreads over the entire nail, and possibly to the other toenails. Fungal infections of the toenail are notoriously hard to treat, and often involve having to take harsh medications for an extended period of time. There are some herbal treatments you can try, although most are not backed up with scientific study. Diabetics and those with circulation problems should treat toenail infections only under the supervision of their physician.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil, derived from the Melaleuca alternifolia plant that is native to Australia, shows some promise in being effective in reducing the symptoms of toenail fungus. An article in the June 1994 "The Journal of Family Practice" reports on a study showing 100 percent tea tree oil was equally effective as the antifungal medication one percent clotrimazole in alleviating the symptoms and improving the appearance of infected toenails when applied directly to the nail daily for a period of six months. However, the rate of effectiveness for treatment is only about 18 percent, and there is a high rate of recurrence, the study found. Tea tree oil is toxic when taken internally, so should only be applied topically. Topical side effects include swelling and irritation.
Grapefruit Seed Extract
The seeds, pulp and white membranes of the grapefruit are used to make an extract having antimicrobial properties. It has been shown to be effective against many bacteria, such as Escherichia coli and Staphyloccus aureus, along with many yeasts and fungi. More studies are needed regarding its use in treating toenail fungus, as it is classified as Generally Regarded As Safe by the FDA for use in cosmetics. It is possibly effective when used topically to treat fungal infections. It is extremely irritating to the skin and eyes at full strength, so AltMD recommends using 15 drops of grapefruit seed extract per 8 ounces of water to drink. The most common side effect is irritation.
Oregano Oil
Although there is no scientific research indicating oregano oil is effective in treating fungal infections of the toenails, it remains a popular folk remedy. It does possess some degree of anti-fungal activity. It is classified as a food by the FDA, so its efficacy, dosage and safety have not been determined. Oregano oil should only be used as a topical remedy and never at full strength. AltMD advises diluting 1 teaspoon of essential oregano oil in 2 teaspoons of olive oil or almond oil, then applying it to the affected toenail using a cotton-tipped swab. As with other methods, treatment takes months and the oil must be applied several times daily. It can be irritating to the skin, so take care to confine it to just the nail area when applying it.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Nail Fungus
- "The Journal of Family Practice": Comparison of Two Topical Preparations for the Treatment of Onychomycosis: Melaleuca alternifolia (Tea Tree) Oil and Clotrimazole; D.S. Buck et al; June 1994; 38(6):601-5
- MedlinePlus: Tea Tree Oil
- AltMD: Grapefruit Seed Extract
- Drugs.com: Oregano
- AltMD: Oregano Essential Oil
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