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. This article and more can be found at http://www.nail-fungus-toenail.com

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. He is the co-owner and founder of Fungus Research, L.L.C., a company dedicated to conquering fungal infections such as nail fungus, toenail fungus, candida, yeast infections and athlete's foot. http://www.nail-fungus-toenail.com