Home remedies for toenail fungus:
Tea Tree Oil
Name: Tea Tree Oil
Treatment Form: essential oil for topical application
What is Tea Tree Oil?
Tea Tree Oil is an essential oil usually derived from the leaves of the Australian tree Melaleuca alternifolia. Tea Tree Oil contains 15 different components, which must be present in the right amounts to meet the international standard definition for Tea Tree Oil.
Dosage and Administration of Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil should be applied directly to the infected toenail, using a cotton wool ball, gauze or similar material. This should be done twice a day until the infection is cleared.
The Tea Tree Oil can be diluted before use, using olive oil or another base oil. It can also be bought in a range of different concentrations or used undiluted. A higher concentration may be more effective, but it also increases the risk of skin irritation.
How Does Tea Tree Oil Work on Toenail Fungus?
Tea Tree Oil is an antifungal agent. It can prevent the growth of toenail fungus and, if used regularly, it can eliminate the infection.
Is Tea Tree Oil Effective Against Toenail Fungus?
A number of scientific studies have indicated that Tea Tree Oil may be an effective treatment for microbial infections, including fungal toenail infections. However, there is no definitive proof that Tea Tree Oil is an effective treatment for toenail fungus.
Warnings and Precautions When Taking Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil is toxic when ingested. It should only be used on the skin. Tea Tree Oil does not have to be diluted before use, unlike most essential oils. However, undiluted Tea Tree Oil is more likely to cause an adverse reaction such as skin irritation so it is usually diluted before use.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not use Tea Tree Oil.
Side-Effects of Tea Tree Oil
If it is swallowed, Tea Tree Oil can cause diarrhea, vomiting, rashes, drowsiness, hallucinations and coma. It can also cause side-effects such as irritation or a rash in some people when it is applied to the skin, particularly when it is not diluted or when it is used by an individual with sensitive skin.