Should You Try Tea Tree Oil
It might be worth trying tea tree oil for athletes foot, toenail fungus, or acne. But skip tea tree oil products marketed to combat bad breath, tooth plaque, and gum disease. In fact, says Krant, don’t use tea tree oil for any oral conditions it may be unsafe to eat or drink. And if you use it on your skin, stop the treatment immediately if you notice that it’s causing irritation or a rashsome people are allergic to tea tree oil.
Does Tea Tree Oil Work
Results from scientific studies supporting the use of tea tree oil to treat nail fungus are mixed. Some of the research points to tea tree oils potential as an antifungal, but more studies are needed.
According to a 2013 study, tea tree oil was effective in reducing growth of the fungus Trichophyton rubrum in nail infections. T. rubrum is a fungus that can cause infections such as athletes foot and nail fungus. Improvements were seen after 14 days.
This study used an in vitro model, which is sometimes called a test-tube experiment. In in vitro studies, the experiment is done in a test tube instead of on an animal or human. Larger human studies are needed to expand on these findings.
Combining tea tree oil with standard medicated creams is also an option. A small 1999 study found that participants were able to successfully manage toenail fungus by using a cream that contained butenafine hydrochloride and tea tree oil.
After 16 weeks of treatment, 80 percent of participants who used this cream cured their toenail fungus with no relapses. No one in the placebo group cured their nail fungus. Further studies are needed to determine which of these ingredients is most useful in treating nail fungus.
Results of a 1994 study found pure tea tree oil was equally as effective as the antifungal clotrimazole in treating fungal toenail infections. Clotrimazole is available both over the counter and by prescription.
Even with diluted tea tree oil, always do a skin patch test before use:
Does Tea Tree Oil Penetrate The Nail
Yes, Tea Tree Oil penetrates through the nail as it contains terpenes, a group of organic compounds that contribute to the scent and medicinal benefits of tea tree oil. It is thought that by penetrating the nails, the Terpenes will kill off any infections present on the nail bed.
- The main ingredient in tea tree oil is terpenes. These compounds give tea tree oil its distinct smell and medicinal benefits, including its antiseptic capabilities.
- One of the effects of terpenes is that they can aid in penetrating the nail bed to kill off any infections on the nail bed.
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Using Tea Tree Oil On Your Nails
Before using tea tree oil for toenail fungus, make an appointment and talk to your doctor about your infection. You may need to take a prescription medication to deal with the problem if you have any other illnesses or health conditions. Your doctor can let you know if tea tree oil is likely to work safely for you. Once you have talked to your doctor, return to Walgreens, where youll find many tea tree oil products. Choosing a liquid extract will likely be best for your needs. Typically, tree oil soaps and skin care creams do not have a high enough concentration of the herb to fully address the fungal infection, which can be difficult to treat. Use a disposable cotton swab to spread the oil onto your toenail. It can take several months for nail fungus to respond to any type of treatment, so be sure to continue to use the product as recommended by your doctor for as long as he or she suggests. Tea tree oil may cause swelling of the skin or redness around your nail. Be sure to keep the cap on the bottle of your extract, as the oil is more likely to cause reactions when it is exposed to the air. It may not be safe for young boys to use tea tree oil to address toenail fungus due to concerns about how the herb affects hormone levels in the body.
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How Does Tea Tree Oil Break Down Fungus
Toenail fungus isn’t exactly attractive. Many people hide their feet in socks and sneakers instead of addressing the larger issue of the actual toenail fungus. However, with summer right around the corner, perhaps it’s time to try something new. Tea tree oil provides a simple and effective solution that truly works to make your feel feel and look much healthier, all without the harmful chemical additives and steroids that are often found in prescribed medications.
Tea tree oil attacks the build up of fungus by breaking down the structure of dermatophyte, more commonly known as the fungi that causes the appearance of yellow toenails. This fungi can be accidentally picked up from walking around public pools, while changing in locker rooms, and from other similar types of activity. Dermatophyte thrives in wet, warm environments, so feet unfortunately make the perfect host. It’s not uncommon, but it’s also not desirable.
Luckily, this oil is extremely potent in its antibacterial capabilities, so dermatophyte is no match for this powerful natural treatment. Once it’s applied, it seeps down into the bed of the nail and starts to infiltrate the accumulated bacteria. It takes time, but you will notice a steady improvement as long as you are consistent with your applications.
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When To See A Doctor About Toenail Fungus
If you are experiencing persistent toenail fungus or pain is present, you may need to see a specialist. A dermatologist or podiatrist may be able to assess your symptoms and send a small sample of the affected toenail or flesh to a laboratory to be analyzed as there are various types of fungi and yeasts that cause onychomycosis. Knowing the specific cause of your foot fungus can help identify what route to take to treat your condition.
Nail changes can also be caused by underlying conditions, like psoriasis and diabetes, so its important to seek professional medical advice if your condition persists or worsens. Bacterial and fungal infection of skin in diabetes patients often result in hospital admissions, and in severe cases, can result in amputations. If you are at a higher risk for infection, you should skip home remedies and seek professional medical treatment.
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When Should You Consider Visiting A Doctor For Toenail Fungus
If it is a mild fungal infection, tea tree oil can arrest the fungal growth and heal it completely. If the treatment is not improving the infection and your nails and surrounding skin become inflamed and painful, consult your doctor immediately.
Also, if you are developing an allergic reaction to the essential oil, discontinue its use immediately. If the reaction persists or becomes worse, visit your doctor.
Tea Tree Oil And Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar balances the pH levels which creates an inhospitable environment for fungus to thrive. Its antifungal properties kill the fungus while its acidic nature prevents it from spreading.
- Fill a bowl with warm water and add cup of apple cider vinegar.
- Soak finger or toenails for up to 40 minutes and towel dry.
- Using a cotton ball, apply diluted tea tree oil on the infected tooth and leave it to dry completely.
- Repeat the process 2 times in a day
Alternative Method: Combine apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil. Apply on the affected nail with cotton ball or Q-tip.
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How Can You Maximize The Benefits Of Tea Tree Oil
Apart from the oil application, you can follow a few tips that can help improve the condition of your toenails and resolve the fungal infection faster.
- Trim your nails regularly. It will prevent the underlying healthy nail from getting infected and allow the oil to penetrate the nail bed better.
- Always wash your nails clean with soap and water. Remember to pat your nails and the skin around them dry to prevent any moisture from entering the nail bed.
- Use footwear in public places such as washrooms, locker rooms, and pools to prevent spreading it to others.
- Opt for footwear that has ample space for your toes. A narrow toebox will cramp your toes together and apply pressure on your toenails. The repetitive trauma can make them susceptible to fungal growth. Choose sandals instead. Alternately, you can apply an antifungal spray to the inside of your shoes to prevent fungal growth.
- If you must wear socks, invest in ones made of natural fibers as they absorb moisture and sweat, unlike their synthetic counterparts. Change and wash your socks regularly.
- Always sterilize your nail tools such as nail clippers, nail file, etc. Avoid sharing them with others as they can spread toenail fungus.
- Lastly, check your nails regularly for any change in color, pain, or irritation. If you notice any such changes, get treatment immediately to prevent the fungal infection from spreading further.
Symptoms That You Have Nail Fungus
When your finger or toenails look yellow, thickened, brittle and flaky, you very likely have nail fungus. A small amount of this fungus is not likely to cause you a problem however, if, given the opportunity to grow, youll begin to see a full-blown nail fungus infection.
At the root of a nail there will be an overgrowth of fungus. This happens when nail fungus is unable to grow naturally on your fingers or toenails.
Correcting its growth will help relieve side effect symptoms associated with this condition which are pain, itchiness and tender skin on the affected area.
As fungus decreases the side effects vanish with time. This, however, can take time and therefore you have to treat the affected area regularly. Basically, the affected areas of the nail will need to grow out and the sore, tender areas of skin will need to heal.
This is normal, and it means that you are resolving the root cause of your nail fungus for the long-term.
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Gently Cleanse With Soap And Water
Cleansing removes any remaining debris that may be left over. It also kills bacteria that may interfere with the antibacterial properties of the oil breaking down the nail fungus. Clean in the area between the toes, and rinse off all traces of soap. Make sure your feet are completely dry after cleansing to stop even further fungal growth.
How Does Tea Tree Oil Kill Bacteria
TTO contains 5 essential compounds, namely Cineole, Pinene, Terpinen4-ol, Cymene, and Terpinene. The presence of these compounds, especially Terpinen4-ol, has been proven to be effective in eliminating bacterias, fungal and viruses by manipulating the body system towards producing more white blood cells.
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Contents On This Page
There may be lots of oil out there in the market that promise to work effectively on fungal infection but what Weve found out over the last couple of years is that no oil has been able to beat Naturenics Premium 100% Organic Tea Tree Essential Oil when it comes to treating fungal infection.
So if by any chance youre suffering from toenails fungus, then Tea tree oil is what you need, and that is what this article is all about. Read on
In a Hurry? Heres How To Apply Tea Tree Oil To Nails Like A Pro In 2021
- Tea tree oil can be applied in 3 ways . Whichever way you choose will almost yield the same result
- To apply, make sure to prep your nails and ensure they are free from dirt
- Once prep, drop a little amount of the oil Tea tree directly onto the affected nail with a dropper
- Allow the applied oil to dry out naturally. You may also need to do this twice daily for effective result
No one ever thought that a pure oil such as tea tree oil could put a stop to nail fungus problem for good not until recent discoveries made it known and ever since then, a lot of persons have benefited from this wonder oil Tea tree.
How Does Melaleuca Oil Come About
In 1732, Captain James Cook, A traveller, who is always on the road was the first person to name the Melaleuca tree tea tree
As he was touring around the world, he got to Australia, he was tasty and needed something to drink.
He looked around and took some leaves from the Melaleuca Alternifolia tree to prepare some spicy tea hence the name tea tree.
Shortly after, the tree became a god everyone looks up to because it is taught to contain antiviral, antibacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Captain Cook is an explorer from the British and also a captain in the Royal Navy. He was born 7 November 1728 in Cleveland, UK.
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Whats Tea Tree Oil Made Of
What did I hear you say? Well, let me wipe my face before I answer that for you. The oil from the melaleuca tree is made up of five essential elements or chemical of which Terpinen4-ol happens to be the most essential for skin.
That is to say in every drop of tea tree oil theyre five active chemicals in it. They are Cineole, Pinene, Terpinen4-ol, Cymene, and Terpinene.
Whats The Catch In All Of This
There are a thousand and one problems that can be solved with almost every tree or plants around us. Those tree or plants are not just there for fancy. They do have a purpose to serve.
So it is with Melaleuca alternifolia . We never knew how blessed we were and how close we are to our problem not until the medicine man came through.
I know you will be asking questions like whats even in the tree that other trees dont have. Well, Keep reading to know whats in this tree
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Benefits Of Antifungal Essential Oils
Essential oils have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, astringent, and fungicidal properties. Some can even stimulate new cell growth. These properties work together to form a potent treatment for fungal infections on your skin. These conditions include:
- Ringworm. This is a contagious, itchy skin condition that can be caused by several kinds of fungus. Sometimes ringworm can be found on the scalp.
- Athletes foot. This is a type of ringworm that is found on the feet. Athletes foot earns its name because its common in people who spend a lot of time in damp, warm socks after athletic activity.
- Tinea versicolor. This fungal infection causes small discolored patches to show up on your skin. The fungus can be found on anyones skin, and discoloration only happens when the fungus overgrows. Oily skin or hormonal changes can be risk factors for tinea versicolor.
- Toenail fungus. Also known as onychomycosis, toenail fungus affects up to 20 percent of the population. This type of fungi can be stubborn and hard to get rid of. Toenail fungus causes nails to become yellowed or otherwise discolored, with streaks or spots appearing in the nail.
- Jock itch. This is caused by fungus that can be spread from person to person. The fungus grows in warm areas of your body where sweat collects under your clothes, like your genitals and buttocks.
Dont apply powerful essential oils directly to your skin without diluting with a carrier oil.
Is Tea Tree Oil Safe For Use On Nail Fungus
Generally speaking, tea tree oil is safe for external use. However, you should never consume this essential oil.
Tea tree oil can cause skin irritation and allergic reaction in some people, resulting in redness, inflammation, and itchiness. Hence, it is recommended to perform a patch test, even if you use small amounts of tea tree oil for nail fungus.
To safely use this essential oil, mix a few drops with a carrier oil like almond oil or coconut oil and apply it to your skin or nails. Avoid using it directly without diluting it on your nails or skin, as it is quite potent.
To conduct a patch test, apply a few drops of the oil mixture to your forearm. If you develop any redness or irritation, discontinue its use immediately. If not, you can continue using it. But first, you should prep your nails for the treatment. Find out how to do that in the next section.
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