Nail fungus, unsightly patches of discolored, deteriorating keratin caused by a microbal plant, is a tough condition to treat. Onychomycosis, as the infection is termed, can resist even the most potent of systemic antibiotics.
People are more prone to get this infection as they age, and it can be spread, for example, by the common use of manicure tools.
Nail fungus can effect the fingernails, but the damp, dark conditions surrounding the feet make toenails a better host for this parasitic growth by a margin of 4 to 1.
In the past, drugs such as Griseofulvin and Ketoconazole were sometimes successful in eliminating the condition, but not without side effects.
More recently, synthetics like Sporanox and Lamisil have been used.
Lamisil, probably the most heavily promoted, seems to be the toxin of choice within the medical community.
Because nail fungus is extremely resistant to treatment, Novartis, the maker of Lamisil -- generically terbinafine -- recommends 1 - 250mg tablet per day for 6 or 12 weeks, with 6 weeks for fingernails and 12 weeks for the harder to treat toenails.
This regimen is not without risk or side effects, including liver damage, and not guaranteed to solve the problem. The condition can reappear within a year.
It's also not without cost.
Depending on whether it comes in 14, 28 or 42 day doses, the cost of Lamisil can range anywhere from about $450 to $500, not including office visits and tests to monitor the liver's reaction to the drug.
Is there an alternative?
Yes.
Naturopaths and some MD's will suggest using Tea Tree Oil.
Steam distilled from the leaves of Melaleuca alternafolia, a shrub like plant native to Australia whose healing properties have been long known to its aboriginal tribes, Tea Tree Oil has strong antibacterial and anti-fungal properties.
For nail fungus, the pure oil is applied to the affected nails 2 to 3 times a day until the new nail has completely grown out. This can mean about 6 months for fingernails and 12 months for the slower growing toenails. Some users remove loose material from under the nails and others have reported using a nail file or emery board to sand down the surface of the nail for better penetration to the nailbed.
100% Australian Tea Tree Oil can be found in health food stores. The cost is approximately $10-$15 for a half-ounce bottle, and it's safe to use.
Till next time, Lawrence Stepanowicz, ND
Reprinted from Practical Health. For a free subscription and a free copy of "Lessons From The Miracle Doctors" visit http://practicalhealth.net
