You are describing healing crises in both cases. It's a phenomenon that the Chinese call "reliving" and it really does get worse before it gets better. Each healing crisis will be short lived and will lead you closer to good health. IMHO the die off is what causes healing crises; so you are right on the money!
Hope this helps. Try diluting the Tea Tree oil with the coconut oil for a more powerful fungus killer. Ahem.
Maryellen