General Overview

Manuka cream is an antifungal treatment made with manuka oil. The Manuka tree grows in New Zeeland, and the oil is used to fight bacterial and fungal infections, similar to Tea Tree Oil. The indigenous people of New Zeeland, the Maori, have used manuka oil for hundreds of years as a homeopathic remedy for colds, sinus infections, joint pain, headaches and many other things. It can also be used in aromatherapy.

How it Works

After studying the contents of Manuka oil and why it is so effective, scientists discovered that the oil has high levels of natural insecticides called cyclic triketones .It basically kills any organism it comes in contact with, bacteria or fungus. It kills gram positive bacteria, such as staphylococcus and streptococcus bacteria. 

How to Use

Normal dose is a few drops of the liquid or cream on and around the nail with a cotton swab or finger twice daily. Application is suggested to continue at least a week after symptoms have gone to ensure the fungus has been eliminated. It is safe to use on the skin around the infected nail as well, as Manuka oil has some soothing properties as well. Wash your hands after applying this, to avoid accidental ingestion. 

User Experiences

Users of Manuka oil report healing from random things like herpes, eczema, skin cuts, bug bites, and rosacea as well as athlete’s foot and nail fungus.  Manuka oil is very versatile, and you will find a lot of strange stories and scenarios that people have used Manuka oil for.There are some warnings against using Manuka oil for women who are pregnant, as it may cause spasmodic activity, and warning for those who are taking a benzodiazepine for another medical condition. Certain medications have a synergistic reaction to Manuka oil, so ask your doctor if you are suspicious. 

Conclusions and Recommendations

Manuka oil is available in different dilutions, as well as mixed with Tea Tree Oil. Manuka oil is also available in cream and soap form. The price is based on the dilution, for example,  100% Manuka oil runs around $25.00 for a 10ml bottle, and a 4% dilution about $15.00. It is reasonably affordable and available online through several different retailers. Based on the wide range of health conditions it reportedly solves, Manuka oil is worth a shot for the price and reputation alone. Be aware of any medication you are taking that may interact with the treatment.