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Tea tree oil can help for nail fungus. Sometimes when the feet are exposed to public swimming pools, showers, wet socks they may become infected with toenail fungus. Week immunity, excessive sweating and poor hygiene are among the main factors triggering the infection. Tea tree oil is good remedy here.
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What is nail fungus?
This fungal infection takes place when fungi infect nails or nail beds. According to Wikipedia the main symptoms are yellowish color of the nails, brittle and thick nails, slight itching of the skin under the nails. Sometimes it becomes painful to walk, wear shoes. As a result the fungal infection damages the nail bed. Doctors usually prescribe antifungal creams. Tea tree oil, however, is one of the effective natural remedies against the fungal infections.
SEE ALSO: Tea Tree Oil for Lice Removal
What is tea tree oil?
The tea tree plant, officially called Melaleuca alternifolia, is from Australia. Pure tea tree oil is extracted from its leaves by steam distillation. Tea tree oil can be used full strength or diluted with carrier oil.
Effectiveness of tea tree oil for nail fungus treatment
Tea tree oil contains such natural substances as terpinen-4-ol. These terpenoids present in tea tree oil possess antifungal and antibacterial properties. They make tea tree oil combat dermatophytes, the main reason of toenail fungal infection. Alpha-terpineol and linalool contribute to the antimicrobial action as well.
Moreover, tea tree oil forms a bond with the skin’s natural oils. It creates a barrier protecting the skin and preventing the growth of microorganisms, including fungi. Tea tree oil is used for many types of skin infections. The application of tea tree oil for toenail fungus treatment is also effective because tea tree oil penetrates deep into the infected nail and reaches the fungus roots and kills them.
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How to use tea tree oil for toenail fungus?
It is possible to use tea tree oil for nail fungus infection in different ways.
- Wash the infected nails with soap and water. Dab with a towel. Pour a few drops on the nails directly and scrub the oil. Apply tea tree oil not only to the infected nails, but also to nails nearby as they may be already partially infected. Repeat it at least twice a day.
- Pour one or two drops of tea tree oil on a cotton swab and put it on the infected nail. Cover it with an adhesive tape or a plastic for proper absorption. Change two-three times a day during 3-4 weeks. Tea tree oil is a natural remedy and needs time to kill fungi.
