Essential oils of peppermint, orange or lemongrass kill most strains of fungal and bacterial infections.
Currently, the main essential oils studied for their antifungal activity are thyme oil, rich in thymol and carvacrol, tea tree oil rich in terpenes, and peppermint or clove oil [19], although many others have also been shown to be effective against fungi.
The topical application of peppermint oil is generally safe, although it is necessary to dilute with a carrier oil like almond or jojoba oil. It is advised that some people may experience a burning sensation or allergic rash, especially with sensitive skin.
Use Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is naturally antifungal and antibacterial. Mix it with any carrier oil like coconut oil or olive oil and dab over the infected area about three to four times a day. This is one of the most effective home remedies to treat fungal infections.
Viruses: A 2020 review noted that peppermint has antiviral activity against viruses such as the herpes simplex viruses and influenza type A. Infections: Peppermint oil is antibacterial against some species of bacteria — including Salmonella, Escherichia coli, and Staphylococcus aureus — in laboratory tests.
(26, 27) Peppermint oil also exhibits antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal activities against various types of bacteria and yeasts. The antimicrobial activities of PO are mainly due to the combined effects of major compounds such as l-menthol, menthone, menthyl acetate, and limonene.
It will start to work within a few hours but it could take up to 1 to 2 weeks to take full effect. Keep taking peppermint oil until your symptoms improve. Common side effects include heartburn and indigestion.
Antifungal medications work to treat fungal infections. They can either kill fungi directly or prevent them from growing and thriving. Antifungal drugs are available as OTC treatments or prescription medications, and come in a variety of forms, including: creams or ointments.
The use of undiluted essential oils on sensitive skin or in the nostrils can irritate or burn. Susceptible people may also develop an allergic reaction and a skin rash.
"Like many essential oils, it can be a skin irritant so care should be taken when using products containing peppermint oil," Dobos said. Start using the oil every few days as you determine how your skin tolerates it, and stop use/wash off immediately if you develop any redness, burning, stinging or peeling.
If you are using it as a repellent and irritant for very small insects like spider mites, I recommend spraying every 3-5 days, making sure you get under the leaves. The basic recipe I use is 1 drop of peppermint oil per 2 ounces of water.
Peppermint oil – peppermint is known for a number of medicinal qualities and has been proven to have antifungal properties too.
A moist environment, humid climate, wearing synthetic clothes, sweating excessively, or certain personal habits may make you prone to an occasional superficial fungal infection.
The treatment of fungal skin infections is based on monotherapy or polytherapy using the synergy of the therapeutic substances. Tea tree oil (TTO) may be a valuable addition to the traditional antifungal drugs due to its antifungal and anti-inflammatory activity.
Fungal skin infections typically will not go away by themselves and may spread if not appropriately managed. Fungal skin infections are common worldwide diseases; an estimated 20% to 25% of the world's population suffers from one of them.
Antifungal creams, many of which are available over-the-counter. Stronger prescription medications, which may work faster. Oral medicines, if the fungal infection is severe.
Vinegar is inexpensive, accessible, and effective in killing microbes, including bacteria and fungus. It can also be used as a safer alternative to bleach for some applications, such as cleaning.
Tea tree oil or eucalyptus oil: Both oils have antifungal properties, and studies found they performed as well as some over-the-counter and prescription topical antifungal treatments. Ozonized sunflower oil: A Brazilian study found that sunflower oil worked to treat toenail fungus infection caused by yeast.
Peppermint oil, ingested in excess, has been noted to cause generalized gastrointestinal symptoms including nausea, bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. While the mechanism remains unknown, this rare case highlights peppermint oil toxicity inducing gastrointestinal symptoms that mimic IBD.
How often can you use it: You can use peppermint oil up to three times a week. Works well with: Peppermint oil should be mixed/diluted with a carrier oil. It works especially well with rosemary essential oil to promote hair growth. Don't use with: Peppermint oil should not be applied directly to the skin.
Yes, you can leave peppermint oil on your hair overnight. However, remember to apply it with a carrier oil. Apply the oil mixture to your hair before sleeping and then wash it off in the morning.