Tea Tree Oil For Toenail Fungus

BySarah Fender PA-C
Tea tree oil for toenail fungus

People prefer home remedies for toenail fungus because they are often less expensive than prescription or over-the-counter treatments and regarded as less risky. One of the effective home remedies for treating toenail fungus is using tea tree oil.

Tea tree oil, extracted from tea tree leaves, has traditionally been used to treat toenail fungus. The antifungal properties of this oil can effectively treat fungal infection by killing the fungus and preventing it from spreading.

Tea tree oil treatment, like other conventional medications, may have some side effects. Understanding the correct method to use this oil in your daily routine is essential to prevent potential side effects.

Table Of Contents

How Should Tea Tree Oil Be Applied To The Toenail Fungus?

You need to follow some instructions while applying tea tree oil to the affected area. The specific area needs to be cleaned first. For that, trim your nails as short as possible, clean them with soap and warm water, and dry them thoroughly.

Tea tree oil dilution is very important. Dilute the tea tree oil by mixing it with any carrier oil. The options are coconut oil, olive oil, or sweet almond oil. This step is essential because tea tree oil is highly concentrated and can cause skin irritation if used undiluted. Mix one ounce of carrier oil with 10 drops of tea tree oil.

Now, apply the mixture to the affected area using a cotton swab or a clean dropper. Try to cover the entire area, including the cuticles. After the application, cover your nails with a bandage to keep the mixture in place and prevent the oil from smudging onto other surfaces.

For better and faster results, repeat the process at least once a day for several weeks or until the fungus is gone.

Is It A Safe Idea To Use Tea Tree Oil For Toenail Fungus?

Yes, tea tree oil is generally considered a safer option for topical use. But you should use it in the correct way with more care. Otherwise, the results may be negative. If you have any doubts, do a patch test on a small area and ensure that you don’t have an allergic reaction.

Try to avoid using tea tree oil, if you have sensitive skin, eczema, or any other skin conditions. Also, it should be avoided if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding. To avoid unwanted side effects, get suggestions from your doctor before using it, especially if you are taking any medications for specific diseases.

How Long Does It Typically Take To See Improvement?

The duration tea tree oil takes to show visible improvements in toenail fungus may vary depending on the severity of the specific infection and the individual’s response to treatment. Some may see improvement within a few weeks, while others may take several months to see significant changes.

Treating toenail fungus may take some time, as the fungus can be difficult to eradicate completely. You should not stop the treatment immediately once you notice the visible results. Continue the same treatment for a few more weeks to ensure that the fungus is completely gone.

Be consistent with the treatment and take necessary steps to prevent the fungus from returning, such as keeping your feet dry and clean, wearing clean socks and shoes, and avoiding sharing personal nail grooming items.

Are There Any Potential Side Effects Of Using Tea Tree Oil?

If it is not diluted and used, you may experience side effects like:

  • Skin irritation like redness, dryness, itching, or burning sensation.
  • Allergic reactions include rashes and hives.

Another important thing is that tea tree oil may turn toxic if consumed in large amounts. If you find any side effects or allergic reactions, discontinue use and consult a doctor.

Clear The Toenail Fungus Naturally

Tea tree oil has so many applications in beauty and cosmetics. It is considered one of the best treatments for acne too. Likewise, this traditional treatment for toenail fungus helps you get the expected results quickly. If you have not noticed any changes or improvements after several weeks, meet a physician for diagnosis and discuss alternative treatment options.

FAQs

Q: Name other alternatives to treat toenail fungus.

A: You can try over-the-counter antifungal creams, oral antifungal medications, or laser therapy to treat toenail fungus.

Q: How to choose the best tea tree oil for toenail fungus?

A: When choosing tea tree oil for toenail fungus, look for a product that is 100% pure. Avoid products that contain additives or are processed using chemicals.

References

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