Essential Oils Against Nail Fungus

The idea that we can use essential oils against nail fungus infections (onychomycosis) is now well established, and scientific research continues to provide proof that its not just folklore. The best approach, however, is still unclear. Various plant species have been investigated, including the Australian tee tree, a handful of aromatic herbs and spices such as oregano, mint, and cloves, and even olive oil, a culinary oil thought to have many healthful properties. The good news is that all of these plants appear to produce compounds that are toxic to the fungi that invade skin, hair, and nails.

Using plant extracts for onychomycosis is not a new idea; in fact, it is probably the oldest antifungal remedy on earth, dating from prehistoric times when people had only the natural world around them to provide cures for disease. The theory behind using essential oils against nail fungus is simply that plants in nature have to fight off fungi too, and they usually do so very effectively. If we can isolate the compounds that a plant uses to fend off fungal attack, we can use them against our own fungal infections.

Among the essential oils against nail fungus that have been studied scientifically, tee tree oil appears to be in the lead. Considerable research has proven the antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral properties of this plant and the extract made from it is now in widespread use, particularly in the alternative therapy market. Some of the herb and spice plant extracts for onychomycosis have also been studied and, recently, addition of ozone to some of these substances has shown promise in enhanced antifungal activity.

The difficulty with using plant extracts for onychomycosis lies in the nature of the infection itself. Fungi that succeed in invading a finger- or toenail typically begin to grow in the nail bed, under the nail, protected from the outside world by many layers of tough keratinized cells. In order to use essential oils against nail fungus, we must find a way to get a topical treatment through the nail to the infection – and this proves to be problem.

If you think you have onychomycosis, consult a health professional for a proper diagnosis. If you decide to use plant extracts for onychomycosis treatment, begin as soon as possible, follow instructions carefully, and keep affected nails clean and thoroughly trimmed, so the tropical treatment has a chance to work.