I put it on my feet, wait a few minutes and then put my socks on. I don't think you need to use a bandaid.

There are all sorts of Tea Tree stuff--oil, creams etc. I don't see a problem with the oil, rub it on, wait 5-10 minutes then put on white cotton socks, (light ones) and if you need to put on colored/heavier socks that should keep your feet warm

Thank you so much for your prompt replies. I have so much hope that this oil will do the trick. If it doesn't...I fear I'm going to have no choice but visit a Dr. Considering how much I dread medical professionals...I'm saying lots of prayers that the oil will work. Right now...wild horses couldn't drag me into a Dr's office or hospital.

I did put a loose sock on after I applied the oil a little while ago. But...I'm more concerned about what to do when I must be out and about. I wear Ecco shoes...which give me terrific support...but I can't wear them without socks. I've been putting a large bandaid around the toe to keep added pressure off of it. It seems to help but I don't want to do anything to interfere with the oil.

Marie...would I be better off looking for a cream and applying it?

How often should I apply the oil?

Anne

be careful w/ it. it is under scrutiny in the EU and up for a possible ban because of it's effects w/ estrogen compounds. ~ liz

Thank you, Liz. I don't use estrogen in any form but I'm glad that you gave me a heads up on this. I'm always super cautious about anything I've never used before. I'm just at my wits end with this toe and I must admit...I'm at the point where I'll use anything reasonable that may offer some help rather than go to the Dr. I know that doesn't sound very bright...but after spending almost every day of a 2 year period in one medical facility or another with my husband...I just can't bring myself to voluntarily enter another such facility. I'm sure I'll get over that attitude in time...but so far...it's a residual effect that doesn't seem to be waning. I applied the oil liberally earlier this afternoon. I think I'll wait until tomorrow and see whether I have any negative reaction to it before I apply it again.

Anne

The oil would be better and there are all different ones. Some stronger than others. Do you have a good health food store in your area? Good stuff is pricy and you don't have to use much.
In our area, Emu oil/cream is very popular. I get some from MN that is so good.
Marie

I've used the 100% Tea Tree Oil and never had a problem. Neither has DH. Yes, it is spendy but worth every penny IMO. I think someone said they got it at Walmart. I will look there next time, just make sure you buy the 100%.
Oh and I put it on 2 or 3 times a day.

I did buy the oil, Marie. According to the label...it's "100% pure essential oil from Tea Tree/Melaleuca Alternifolia" and it cost me $7.49 for .5 [five tenths] of an ounce. I have a couple of good health food stores in my area and I bought it from one of them. They've been in business for a long time so I know they're reliable/reputable.

What's "Emu oil"? When you mention Emu...I think of a big bird. Is it an oil from that bird? Is it better than the Tea Tree oil?

Thank you for your input, Marie. You're giving me an education and it's so appreciated.

Anne

Thanks, Nodakgal. So far my toe doesn't look like it's going to fall off...so I think I'll put a little on it before I hit the sack tonight as long as you use it more than once a day. The oil does have a rather pungent odor that almost smells like road tar. Or...at least that's as close as I can come to comparing the odor right now.

Since dousing it early this afternoon...I have noticed that the pain has almost disappeared. That, in itself, is a blessing! Maybe I'll get up in the morning and find the redness has decreased considerably...and WE all may have saved this poor toe. What a blessing that would be.

Anne

Anne...I always put it on and let it set awhile then put my socks on. It worked great for me...both my big toenails were really a mess...they were even crackled about half off at one point. now they are nice and pink.

patti

Oh Patti! This poor toe of mine has taken a terrible beating for years. A heavy pipe fell on it about 30 years ago and it never quite recovered from that accident. It would get better and then I'd have another attack...or...I'd smash/stumble into something with it. The poor thing probably wanted to give up long ago but I keep resurrecting it. I don't know exactly what happened to it this last time but it sure is angry...and the gout doesn't help matters. If this oil works...I'll be eternally grateful to all of you who have so patiently helped me. I'm afraid if this doesn't work that I'll lose the toe. I'm a non medicating diabetic. I've had the diabetes under control for years...but I know that neuropathy is always a threat.

I'm very encouraged by your success. Thanks so much for your encouragement.

Anne

the reason for the ban has nothing to do w/ taking estrogen. it affects estrogen even in men using tea tree oil. actually the reason for the ban has to do specifically w/ how it magnifies the affects of estrogen in men so you can just imagine what it can do for women who have many times more estrogen in their systems. definitely do a search on it esp if you have any cancer family history...~ liz