We have a motto at The People’s Pharmacy: The customer or the reader is always right. We do our best to be understanding and supportive, but sometimes our patience is pushed to the limit. Such was the case when a reader complained that her toenails were turned purple by gentian violet. Really? This came as a surprise? Here is a link to the original column:
Why Is This Reader Shocked by Purple Toenails?
Q. You recommended gentian violet for toenail fungus, and I tried it. Now my toenails are purple, and I can’t get it off. What can I do?
A. When we wrote about this old-fashioned topical antifungal treatment, we warned that it stains the skin and nails purple. The color will gradually dissipate, but it will take time for your toes to return to normal. There is no way to wash gentian violet off.
A Short History of Gentian Violet:
This bright blue synthetic dye was created in 1861. During the early 20th century, doctors prescribed gentian violet for oral yeast infections (thrush) as well as impetigo and pinworm. It has broad antimicrobial activity and is occasionally used to treat some antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Gentian Violet and the Purple Penis Problem:
Before modern antifungal creams, some doctors prescribed gentian violet for vaginal yeast infections. The resulting purple color could be quite impressive, as this reader attests:
“I have worked in women’s health for 40 years. Back in the early 1970s the older doctors often painted women’s vaginas with gentian violet to treat persistent yeast infections. They always told the women to warn their husbands about the possibility of purple penises.”
Learn to Love Your Purple Toenails:
A nurse, Rose Hoban, RN, MPH, shared this story about coming to grips with purple toenails:
“When I was working for Doctors Without Borders in Indonesia, we used it for EVERYTHING from drying up skin infections to treating athletes foot.
“One friend used to elicit howls of laughter from people around him when he’d pull off his shoes and they’d see his purple toes. But it worked to kill his foot fungus!”
People’s Pharmacy Perspective on Purple Toenails:
Number One:
Gentian violet will stain you toes, toenails and any other tissue it comes in contact with PURPLE! If you are not prepared to live with purple toes for a a few months, DO NOT DO THIS! Of course you could always paint your purple toes with toenail polish, purple or some other dark color.
Number Two:
If purple toenails do not appeal and you are not into toenail polish, perhaps one of our other nail fungus remedies would be more acceptable. You can read all about them in our book, The People’s Pharmacy Quick & Handy Home Remedies book or our Guide to Hair and Nail Care.
Share your own gentian violet story below in the comment section. If you have had success with another less colorful nail fungus treatment please share your success story.
