Outlook Spotlight

11 Natural Home Remedies To Treat & Get Rid Of Toenail Fungus

Discover 11 natural home remedies that can effectively treat toenail fungus. These are safe and proven remedies will help you get rid of toenail fungus.

Advertisement

Get Rid Of Toenail Fungus
info_icon

Toenail Fungus is one of the most common toenail infections that is noticeable and symptomatic sometimes. 

People with toenail fungus are very irritated as they want to get rid of the fungal infection, but it may keep recurring in most cases. 

Most medicines for toenail fungus can cause serious side effects, and people must take more medications to treat those side effects. 

Hence, such medicines are not a permanent fix for toenail fungus. One can try natural home remedies to ease and soothe the pain and symptoms of toenail fungus.  

Toenail Fungus, scientifically known as Onychomycosis, is diagnosed when the toenail starts getting discolored. You must consult a doctor if you see your toenail becoming white, brown, or yellow.  

Advertisement

You may also see your nails getting thicker and have an increased tendency to have cracked nails. 

While therapies and medicines are temporary, one can try these natural home remedies daily without side effects to improve their toenail health, appearance, and quality.  

Home remedies are time tested and recommended by many people who have successfully treated their symptoms and, in some cases, even cured their fungal infections using these. 

Here are the best 11 all-natural home remedies to treat Toenail Fungus: 

1. TEA TREE OIL 

Tea Tree Oil has many beneficial properties: antifungal, antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-oxidant. Studies have proven how this melaleuca oil (the scientific name for Tea Tree Oil) can help reduce discoloration and prevent the fungal infection from spreading and recurring. 

Advertisement

You can use Tea Tree oil directly onto your nails and the affected skin around them or add a few drops of carrier oil to dilute it before application.  

Since Tea Tree Oil is potent, some people may feel an excess sensation when applied to the skin. You can do a patch test if necessary. If you think you are sensitive, add a few drops of coconut or carrier oil to prevent irritation. 

Use a cotton swab to apply tea tree oil on the affected toenails. Repeat this twice daily to get the best results. Keep the coating on and wash only before the next application. 

2. OREGANO OIL 

Oregano Oil tops the chart as it has antifungal, antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. 

It contains unique properties that can prevent the multiplication of fungi. Studies have proven that oregano oil can reduce the symptoms and signs of toenail fungus by 50% within a few weeks.  

Oregano Oil is very potent; one can either use it directly or mix it with a carrier oil. Some may even prefer mixing oregano and tea tree oil for a multiplier effect.  

However, these oils may cause reactions if applied directly without a carrier oil. The best carrier oil is coconut oil.  

Advertisement

Use a cotton swab to apply the oil to your affected toenails and surrounding skin. Do this two times every day and maintain the best toenail hygiene. Doing this for eight to twelve weeks regularly will have great results.  

3. GARLIC  

Garlic has excellent antioxidants and antifungal properties. Just one clove of garlic has so many properties that can help wipe out the entire infection.  

People don’t use it directly as they fear their skin may burn due to garlic’s alkaline and anti-inflammatory nature. However, you can use chopped, crushed, or raw garlic directly to fight toenail fungus.  

Advertisement

You can tie a thin (very thin, transparent) cloth on your toe, add crushed garlic on top of it, and then cover it with another fabric. Keep this on for a few mins (20-30 minutes), and then wash it off.  

Or, you can directly place chopped or crushed garlic on your affected toenail to fight fungus. This is more effective as the anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties can work directly on your toenails.  

4. APPLE CIDER VINEGAR  

Apple Cider Vinegar is made from apple juice that is fermented twice. This liquid contains acidic properties with antifungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.  

Advertisement

It has amino acids, vitamins, minerals and essential compounds that can help fight toenail fungus effectively.  

Pouring Apple Cider Vinegar directly onto your toenails can be dangerous as it is acidic. Hence, most people refrain from using it.  

However, apple cider vinegar soaks are good news for people with toenail fungus as the acidic solution is diluted with water.  

Put two parts of warm water and one part of Apple Cider Vinegar in a tub. Clean your feet and trim your nails before you soak. Soak your feet for 15-20 minutes. Rinse and pat dry after each soak. You can do this every day.  

Advertisement

5. BLACK TEA 

Normal tea is considered to have so many healing properties that can be used to treat toenail fungus. Consuming tea regularly can help fight such infections too.  

However, black tea is even better as it contains tannic acid that helps dry out the feet and kill bacteria, and prevent fungus too.  

Boil two liters of water and add 6 to 7 tea bags to the water. Let the solution cool and then soak your feet in the solution for 30 minutes.  

You can do this every day for three months for the best results. This will help the tannic acid work faster and better. Your nail will dry out and prevent the moisture from letting fungi multiply. 

Advertisement

Black Tea wipes out the moisture, so your feet may feel dry. Use a dermatologist approved moisturizer on your feet when needed but don’t apply it on the affected toenail.  

6. BAKING SODA 

Baking Soda is a very common home remedy for toenail fungus It is often used as a paste, soak and sprinkle powder to treat toenail fungus, discoloration of nails, and foul smell caused by the infection.  

Baking Soda has healing properties that can work a charm on your toenails as it dries them out, deprives them of any moisture, and prevents the multiplication of fungi. 

You can sprinkle baking soda in your shoes and let it sit for a day. This helps your feet remain dry when you wear shoes for long hours.  

Advertisement

Also, you can sprinkle baking soda on your feet directly to dry out the moisture from the nails. When you combine both methods, they work very effectively as home remedies for toenail fungus. 

You can also mix very little water in baking soda to get a paste-like consistency. Apply it on your feet or affected toenails and skin.  

Let it sit for 20 minutes. Don’t worry if your feet feel dry, that’s how it kills the fungus. Do it regularly for the best effects. 

7. EPSOM SALT 

Magnesium Sulfate or Epsom Salt contains antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties that can benefit your nail health.  

Advertisement

The salt helps deep-cleanse the feet and remove any hard skin and bacteria on them. It is also used in various cleansing and healing manicures and pedicures.  

Epsom Salt foot soak is the most effective way to stop the infection from spreading; when used effectively, it can even heal your toenail.  

Boil two liters of water and add a cup of Epsom Salt to it. Soak your feet in a tolerable hot soak for 20 minutes. This helps remove dead skin, nail edges, and ingrown nails, reduce discoloration, and prevent fungus infection. 

You may even add a few more ingredients in the soak if you want faster results: baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, and vinegar.  

Advertisement

Add a quarter cup of each along with a cup of Epsom Salt in the boiling water. Soak your feet in the tolerable solution for 20 minutes. Rinse after each soak. 

8. OTHER ESSENTIAL OILS 

Like Tea Tree and Oregano Oils, there are many more essential oils that are proven to have antifungal, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Some of these are: 

  • Clove oil 
  • Lavender oil 
  • Eucalyptus oil 
  • Cinnamon oil 
  • Lemon oil 
  • Lemongrass oil 

You may easily get these at any local store but check for the source always. Buy these oil from trustworthy sellers only.  

Also, these essential oils are highly potent and may cause allergic reactions too. So it is always better to mix or dilute them with a carrier oil of your choice. 

Advertisement

The safest carrier oils are coconut and olive oil. These can be pre-mixed or you can take a small bowl or container to mix the solution. You can even create foot soaks by adding a few drops of essential oils. 

9. OZONATED OILS 

Ozonated oils contain ozone gas. These oils can directly kill bacteria and fungi too. Olive and Sunflower Oils are great examples of ozonated oils.  

These can be used directly onto the nails and skin as massage oils or solutions to fight toenail fungus. Studies have explained how ozonated oils can help fight fungal and yeast infections effectively. 

Advertisement

Make sure your feet are clean and dried. It is important to wash your feet and nails with lukewarm water and mild soap before you try a toenail fungus remedy.  

Then take a small amount of any ozonated oil and gently massage in a round direction. You can even massage the entire toe and affected areas with these oils for a better effect.  

Use ozonated oils after a patch test only, as a few people may get irritations or allergies. Discontinue if you have issues. Make sure you massage the oil well into your nails.  

10. HYDROGEN PEROXIDE  

Hydrogen Peroxide contains many antifungal properties that can bring out the fungus from hiding and improve the nails' and skin’s immunity to fight the infection.  

Advertisement

Hydrogen Peroxide is commonly used to cleanse the nails and feet if you’re prone to infections, athlete’s foot, or toenail fungus.  

Clean your toenails and trim them. Wash your feet thoroughly to clear the skin for the penetration of hydrogen peroxide.  

Now take a cotton swab and gently apply it on your nails with Hydrogen Peroxide. This will dry out the moisture in your nails and clear them from any potential infection.  

You can also create a foot soak using Hydrogen Peroxide. Take 2-4 spoons of Hydrogen Peroxide and mix it in 4 cups of cold water.  

Soak your feet in this solution for about 20 minutes. To add to the effect, rinse your feet with lukewarm water and pat dry.  

Advertisement

11. OLIVE LEAF EXTRACT 

Oleuropein, an active component in Olive Leaf Extract, is known for its antifungal properties. Many studies have been conducted to evaluate its effect on toenail fungus. 

Studies have proven that it also has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that can expedite the treatment of toenail fungus. 

You can get OTC Olive Leaf Extract capsules for better absorption of the properties or use them as a completely natural home remedy to wipe out toenail fungus at once.  

It can boost your immune system and help you overcome fungus infection forever. 

Advertisement

You can apply a salve made from Olive Leaf Extract directly to the toenails to reduce the infection. Remember to trim your nails regularly so the salve can penetrate better. 

TIPS TO MAINTAIN FUNGUS-FREE TOENAILS 

Taking care of your toenails is always advisable even if you have recovered from the infection.  

Toenail fungus can be a recurring issue, so keep doing safe home remedies. Here are some tips to take care of your toenails: 

  • Wear clean socks and shoes always 
  • Trim your nails at least once a week 
  • Do not use heavy moisturizers or oil on your nails and feet 
  • Keep your feet dry as much as possible 
  • Avoid public places such as swimming pools and saunas where there is a high risk of infection 
  • Soak your feet to cleanse them 
  • Take health supplements and maintain a healthy diet 
  • Exercise to ensure maximum blood circulation 

Advertisement

Why do Home Remedies work best for Toenail Fungus? 

Most people think of consulting doctors and dermatologists when they look at their nails and feel their feet are no longer presentable.  

Doctors usually prescribe antifungal and antimicrobial medicines in high doses along with specific chemical ointments. These can have harsh side effects on your digestion, gut health, and even blood regulation. 

It is not always safe to consume these medicines in the long run, especially if you have poor immunity.  

It is hence advisable to try home remedies that have evidence, is safe, and are proven to improve your condition and wipe out fungus in the long run.  

Advertisement

Although home remedies may not work instantly on all adults, they do work permanently if you keep using them. 

The most effective of all home remedies for toenail fungus is essential oils. These oils contain too many beneficial properties that can be used to fight fungal infections, bacterial infections, skin ailments, and nail conditions effectively. Make sure to use a carrier oil for the best results. 

There are some unsafe home remedies for toenail fungus as well. For example, using too much essential oil directly.  

Trimming nails more than needed. Drying out the skin excessively which leads to cracks and bleeding. Make sure you try everything in moderation, strictly. 

Advertisement

Conclusion: 

To conclude, having a toenail fungus infection can be painful and embarrassing. However, you must remember that the infection can be treated using many home remedies and your toenail’s appearance can be improved over a period as well.  

You must keep using various health supplements if prescribed, and ointments to speed up the treatment.  

Once the treatment is over, you can continue home remedies to improve your toenail health permanently. Always consult a doctor if you’re unsure of a remedy.  

BOTTOMLINE: You can overcome toenail fungus; yes, you can! 

Advertisement

Disclaimer: We might receive compensation when you buy through our website; we may earn a small affiliate commission. The information contained on this website is provided for informational purposes only and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by your doctor or other healthcare professional. The products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. 

Disclaimer: The above is a sponsored post, the views expressed are those of the sponsor/author and do not represent the stand and views of Outlook Editorial.

Advertisement