Can You Use Essential Oil for Toenail Fungus?

Signs and symptoms

The most obvious sign of fungal infection in the toenails is a change in nail color. Affected nails often turn a brownish hue or a yellowish-white shade. As the infection advances, the discoloration can affect additional nails. If left untreated, the fungus can cause the nails to become thicker and may even lead to cracking.

Your healthcare provider may recommend prescription antifungal drugs to treat toenail fungus, for example:

• fluconazole (Diflucan)
• terbinafine (Lamisil)
• itraconazole (Sporanox)

These medications can have side effects for some people. As an alternative to prescription treatments, certain essential oils are sometimes used.

The best essential oil for toenail fungus

Many essential oils possess antifungal actions, but clove essential oil (Syzygium aromaticum) is among the most commonly recommended. A 2007 study  reported that clove oil demonstrates antifungal activity and can eliminate fungal organisms.

How to apply

Essential oils should always be mixed with a carrier oil before being applied to skin. They are not intended for internal use. Advocates advise diluting clove oil into a carrier oil such as:

• almond oil
• apricot kernel oil
• argan oil
• blackseed oil
• coconut oil
• grapeseed oil
• jojoba oil
• olive oil
• peach kernel oil
• rosehip oil

After combining clove essential oil with your chosen carrier oil, use this regimen:

1. Wash your feet, toes, and nails with soap and water.
2. Thoroughly dry them with a soft towel.
3. Place a drop or two of the oil mixture on the affected nail.
4. Allow the oil to penetrate for about 10 minutes.
5. Gently scrub the nail with a soft-bristled toothbrush.
6. Repeat each day until the unhealthy nail is succeeded by a new, healthy nail. This process may take several months.

Other commonly used essential oils for toenail fungus

Additional essential oils that may help eradicate toenail fungus and reduce the chance of recurrence include:

• cinnamon essential oil (Cinnamomum verum)
• eucalyptus essential oil (Eucalyptus globulus)
• lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia)
• lemon essential oil (Citrus limon)
• lemongrass essential oil (Cymbopogon citratus)
• manuka essential oil (Leptospermum scoparium)
• Ocotea essential oil (Ocotea bullata)
• oregano essential oil (Origanum vulgare)
• peppermint essential oil (Mentha piperita)
• tea tree essential oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)
• thyme essential oil (Thymus vulgaris)

Essential oil blend for toenail fungus

A popular mixture among natural health advocates for addressing toenail fungus is commonly called “thieves oil.”

The origin tale varies somewhat by source, and recipes differ slightly, but the core legend suggests medieval grave robbers used the blend on their hands to avoid contracting the bubonic plague.

Thieves oil formula

Combine the following essential oils:

• 20 drops of cinnamon
• 40 drops of clove
• 15 drops of eucalyptus
• 35 drops of lemon
• 10 drops of rosemary

Many recommend diluting this mixture in a carrier oil — for instance, one drop of thieves oil to four drops of carrier oil — and applying it daily to nails affected by fungus.

Preventing reinfection

While treating and after recovery, use these precautions:

• Wash your feet frequently.
• Completely dry your feet after washing.
• Apply moisturizer to nails after washing and drying.
• Trim nails straight across. File down any thickened areas.
• Sanitize nail clippers after every use.
• Avoid using nail polish.
• Pick shoes made from breathable materials.
• Treat older footwear with antifungal powders or sprays, or discard them.
• Wear flip-flops or slides in communal locker rooms and around pools.
• Choose sweat-wicking socks made from natural fibers.
• Consider changing socks once or twice daily.

The takeaway

Although some clinical evidence suggests essential oils can be moderately effective against toenail fungus, it’s prudent to discuss any treatment with your physician before beginning. Your doctor can advise on reducing potential risks and help you manage your specific fungal nail condition.