How To Use Tea Tree Oil For Toenail Fungus

Last Updated on June 21, 2024 by Martina McKeough

There are plenty of essential oils that I have already written about that are great for toenail fungus. Some of my favorites are Manuka Oil, Coconut Oil and Neem oil but today I want to talk about how to use Tea Tree Oil For Toenail Fungus.

Tea tree oil is a popular natural remedy for toenail fungus due to its antifungal and antiseptic properties plus I tend to have some in the house to help with insect bites. Here’s how you can use it effectively to get rid of your toenail fungus by using it at home.

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Best Tea Tree Oil For Toenail Fungus

Before I start however it is worth knowing that not all Tea Tree Oils are made equal. When you are looking for something to treat toenail fungus it’s important to select a high-quality product to make sure it is effective and safe. This First Botany Tea Tree Oil would fit the bill.

So before you buy a brand consider these things first:

Purity:
- Ensure the tea tree oil is 100% pure and free from additives or synthetic ingredients.
Therapeutic Grade:
- Look for oils labeled as “therapeutic grade,” indicating they are suitable for medicinal use.
Source:
- Opt for tea tree oil sourced from Australia, where the tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) is native and the oil is known to be of high quality.
Extraction Method:
- Steam distillation is the preferred method of extraction, preserving the oil’s natural properties.
Brand Reputation:
- Choose products from reputable brands known for their quality and purity.

Once you have the best tea tree oil you then need to gather the following:

Materials Needed:

A Carrier oil (e.g., olive oil, coconut oil)
Cotton balls or swabs
Nail file or emery board
Soap and water

Can I Put Tea Tree Oil Directly On My Nails?

Yes, you can apply tea tree oil directly to your nails, but it’s important to do so with caution due to the oil’s potency.

I am going to suggest you dilute it with a carrier oil but if you plan to use it neat it is safer to use a patch test first.

You can do this by applying a small amount of diluted tea tree oil to a small area of skin and wait 24 hours. If there’s no irritation, it should be safe to use.

Step-by-Step Instructions To Use Tea Tree Oil For Toenail Fugus

1. Preparation

Clean Your Feet: Wash your feet thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them completely, as fungi thrive in moist environments.
Trim and File: Trim your toenails straight across and file them to remove any dead or infected parts. Be sure to clean under the nail as well.

This vital preparation is important for your treatment to be effective so don’t try and skip it.

2. Dilution

Mixing with Carrier Oil: Pure tea tree oil can be potent and may cause skin irritation. Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil. A common ratio is 1-2 drops of tea tree oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. This helps to dilute the tea tree oil while maintaining its effectiveness.

I personally prefer to use a carrier oil with tea tree oil as I have sensitive skin and I want to try and avoid any allergic reactions. My favourites tend to be coconut oil or jojoba oil.

3. Application

Direct Application: Soak a cotton ball or swab in the tea tree oil mixture. Apply it directly to the affected toenail and surrounding skin. Be sure to cover the entire nail, including the underside and the cuticle area.
Let It Soak: Allow the oil to soak into the nail and skin for at least 10-15 minutes. Avoid washing it off immediately.
Massage Gently: Gently massage the oil into the nail and surrounding area to ensure deeper penetration.

4. Repetition

Daily Routine: Apply the tea tree oil mixture twice daily – once in the morning and once before bedtime. Consistency is key for effective treatment.

I can’t stress enough how important it is to follow the routine regularly and not skip days as otherwise the regime will be less effective.

5. Observation and Adjustments

Monitor Progress: Keep an eye on the condition of your toenail. It may take several weeks to months to see noticeable improvement, as toenail fungus can be stubborn.
Adjust if Necessary: If you experience skin irritation or if the condition worsens, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

You can of course try some of the other essential oils I have mentioned for toenail fungus if you can’t see any results with tea tee oil. You can also try a Toenail Fungus Light Device to solve the problem.

If the problem is persistent and doesn’t seem to be improving then arrange to see your GP or podiatrist.

Tea Tree Oil For Onycholysis

Using tea tree oil for toenail fungus can be a natural way to treat the problem without using harsh chemicals. However even if you have a successful treatment with tea tree oil you need to prevent the problem for returning.

So in the future make sure you do the following to look after your foot health:

Prevent Moisture: Keep your feet dry and well-ventilated. Change socks regularly and avoid wearing damp shoes.
Hygiene: Disinfect your nail tools after each use to prevent spreading the fungus.
Footwear: Wear breathable footwear and avoid walking barefoot in communal areas such as locker rooms and swimming pools.

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