Jonathan N. Group, R.D., D.C
For centuries the olive leaf has provided a natural way to heal
many ailments of the body. This is due to the active agent in
olive leaf extract known as oleuropein. This bitter substance is
an element of the compound that is used by the olive tree to
ensure that the plant is vigorous and resistant to harsh weather
conditions, bacterial damage and insect attack. The antimicrobial
characteristic of olive leaf extract occurs when the oleuropein
breaks down in the body into elolenic acid. This acid interferes
with a pathogen’s ability to replicate. A beneficial byproduct of
this reaction is that a jump start is given to the immune system,
which begins to fight bacteria and infection on its own as well.
In addition to this powerful antimicrobial characteristic, olive
leaf extract improves circulation by increasing blood flow to the
coronary arteries and relieve arrhythmias. It has been found to
combat yeast infections by balancing the amount of candida in the
system. Warts have also been known to be vulnerable to olive leaf
extract as is toenail fungus.
Toenail fungus is a common, contagious condition that strikes
many people. Typically it occurs when the immune system is down
and once contracted is difficult to eliminate from the system.
Also referred to as onychomycosis, this widespread condition
accounts for a large proportion of nail disorders and can become
quite unsightly and painful. Beginning as discoloration or a
light colored spot under the tip of the toenail, this fungus will
continue to spread until the entire nail becomes thick and yellow
with rough and crumbling edges.
If no action is taken to destroy the fungus, the condition will
worsen and eventually the toenail will have a distorted shape,
the color may become green, brown, or black, and the toes may
begin to emit a foul odor. If the toenail fungus becomes
particularly severe, the toenail may be lost, causing
considerable pain and making the toe even more vulnerable to
additional infection.
Fortunately, toenail fungus does not have to be accepted as a
distasteful part of life. There are many treatments available to
eradicate the fungus that causes this unpleasant condition.
Utilizing the natural healing potential of olive leaf oil is a
safe and natural way to get rid of this unsightly and difficult
ailment. When purchasing olive leaf extract, it is important to
buy from a reputable company as the processing of the plant must
be done carefully to ensure that the extract is potent and
effective. This product may be purchased in tincture, capsules,
or salves that are made from the extract. In the form of a salve
it should be used as directed based on the potency of the active
ingredient of oleuropein.
When ingesting olive leaf extract it is important to begin slowly
to prevent what is known as Herxheimer reaction or “die-off.”
this is a reaction caused by the detoxification process that
presents flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, muscle aches,
headaches, diarrhea and vomiting. Typically this effect only
happens when large doses are taken without introduction. If the
treatment begins slowly and is gradually increased, this reaction
to detoxification is rarely seen.
A wise course of treatment for toenail fungus is to take one to
three capsules two times per day with meals. The olive leaf
extract should always be taken with meals to prevent stomach
upset and plenty of water, at least six to eight glasses daily.
It is essential to complete this therapy until the toenail fungus
is completely eradicated from the system. Even as the fungus dies
and the toenail begins to clear it is vital to continue the
treatment until the infected portion of the toenail has
completely grown out.
Once the fungus has been eliminated and the nail is completely
healthy, it is vital to take steps to ensure that the fungus does
not return. Keeping toenails clean and trim is important because
fungus can make a home under the nail, especially after
contacting fungus that may reside on other toenails or toenails
because of the contagious nature of the fungus. If you have
exceptionally sweaty feet, give them ample time to dry out during
the day, if possible. Wear socks that allow the feet to breathe,
such as those made from natural fibers like cotton. If you are
suffering from toenail fungus, it may also be necessary to
discontinue using nail polish as it can trap moisture under the
polish and encourage the growth of fungus.
These steps, in addition to maintaining a healthy immune system
and including olive leaf extract in your treatment should help
you eradicate any existing nail fungus and prevent the infection
from returning.
Copyright © 2005 Jonathan N. Group, R.D., D.C
Dr. Jonathan N. Group, B.S., R.D., D.C. is a Doctor of
Chiropractic, Registered Dietitian and Independent Research
Scientist. He has over 15 years of educational and research
experience in health care focusing in clinical nutrition,
alternative medicine, holistic healing, chiropractic, medical
testing, rehabilitation, physical medicine, nutritional
counseling, wellness, and personal training. His seminar
presentation experience includes various topics including but not
limited to health, healing, nutrition, weight loss, alternative
medicine, fitness, rehabilitation, back health and overall
wellness. Dr. Group is currently the Chief Executive Officer of
Fungal Research, L.L.C. and heads the research and development
team dedicated to producing advanced, new anti-fungal and
anti-microbial products. http://www.nail-fungus-toenail.com