Various types of orange essential oil exist: orange, bergamot orange, bitter orange and seville orange, which makes petitgrain and neroli essential oils. All types of orange oil seem to have antifungal properties. A 1996 study in the "International Journal of Dermatology" studied the effects of bitter orange oil on fungus and determined it was an effective and inexpensive treatment method. Eighty percent of participants that used a 25 percent bitter orange topical treatment had their fungus cleared up in one to two weeks. Orange essential oil might treat your fungal infection at home, although be sure to check with your doctor first.
Step 1
Pour 3.5 oz. of a carrier oil, such as grape seed oil, into a dark-colored glass bottle.
Step 2
Add 40 to 60 drops of orange essential oil to the bottle.
Step 3
Put a lid on the bottle and turn it upside down a few times to mix the contents.
Step 4
Allow the mixture to sit for about four days if possible to allow the oils to blend together.
Step 5
Apply the mixture to your fungal infection.
Tips and Warnings
- Consult with a certified aromatherapist on the proper way to use essential oils and with your doctor for the best treatment method for fungal infections. Purchase high-quality, organic essential oils when using them on your skin.
- Essential oils can cause allergic reactions and can have side effects. Test some diluted orange oil on a small spot of skin before applying to a large area. Orange oil might make your skin photosensitive, so use sun screen if you go into the sun or avoid the sun while treating your fungal infection.
References
- "The Essential Natural Health Bible"; Nerys Purchon; 2006
- PubMed: "International Journal of Dermatology"; Oil of Bitter Orange -- New Topical Antifungal Agent; W. Ramadan, et al.; 1996
