You may be able to cure toenail fungus at home with essential oils and other antibacterial and antifungal treatments, such as Vick's VapoRub.
Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection of the toenail. The most obvious sign is a white, brown, or yellow discoloration of one or more toenails. It might spread and cause the nails to thicken or fracture.
Whether it's sandal season or not, toenail fungus isn't something you want to see on your feet. There are several therapies you may attempt, some of them are natural.
What home remedy kills toenail fungus?
1. Vicks VaporRub
Vick's VapoRub is a topical ointment. Although intended for cough suppression, the active components (camphor and eucalyptus oil) may help cure toenail fungus.
An previous 2011 study discovered that Vicks VapoRub had a "positive clinical effect" on toenail fungus. This conclusion was corroborated by another 2016 research on people living with HIV.
To use, rub a tiny quantity of Vicks VapoRub over the afflicted region at least once each day.
2. Snakeroot Extract.
Snakeroot (Ageratina pichinchensis) extract is a sunflower-based antifungal.
An older 2008 study found that the treatment is equally efficient against toenail fungus as the antifungal medicine ciclopirox.
For the trial, snakeroot extract was administered to the afflicted region every third day for the first month, twice a week for the second month, and once a week for the third.
3. Tea Tree Oil.
Tea tree oil, commonly known as melaleuca, is an essential oil having antifungal and antibacterial properties.
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative HealthTrusted Source (NCCIH), several small-scale clinical research suggest that tea tree oil may be beneficial against toenail fungus.
Using a cotton swab, apply tea tree oil directly to the damaged nail twice each day.
4. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil includes thymol. According to a 2016 review, thymol is antifungal and antibacterial.
To cure toenail fungus, apply oregano oil to the afflicted nail twice a day using a cotton swab. Some individuals mix oregano oil and tea tree oil together.
Both products are quite strong and may cause irritation or allergic responses. Combining them may raise the danger.
5. Ozonized oils.
Ozonized oils are oils, such as olive and sunflower oil, that have been "injected" with ozone.
According to 2020Trusted Source study, short-term exposure to low quantities of ozone can inactivate various species, including fungus, yeast, and bacteria.
6. Listerine mouthwash.
Listerine mouthwash is effective in treating toenail fungus because it includes antibacterial and antifungal ingredients such as menthol, thymol, and eucalyptus. This may explain why it's such a popular folk cure for toenail fungus.
Supporters of the therapy suggest bathing the injured foot in a basin of amber-colored Listerine for 30 minutes every day.
7. Garlic
A study from 2019Trusted Source reveals that garlic extract may have antifungal qualities, but additional research is needed to validate this.
To cure toenail fungus with garlic, apply chopped or crushed garlic cloves to the afflicted region for 30 minutes daily.
Treating it from the inside out with garlic pills may be more effective and less stinky. Take exactly as advised by the manufacturer.
8. Apple Cider Vinegar
Only anecdotal data supports vinegar as a therapy for toenail fungus. One research from 2017 suggests that apple cider vinegar has antibacterial capabilities. However, additional research is needed into its real effect on toenail fungus.
If you wish to try vinegar, soak the afflicted foot in one part vinegar and two parts warm water for up to 20 minutes each day.
9. Probiotics
According to research, probiotics may help inhibit the growth of different fungi, potentially reducing the risk of infection.
Consider eating more probiotic-rich foods or taking probiotic supplements as a prophylactic measure.
10. Other Natural Options
According to studies, there are several more plant-based therapies that may be beneficial in treating toenail fungus. This includes:
Spirulina (Arthrospira Maxima)
Spruce tree resin and propolis extract.
The bottom line
Home treatments may be more successful than pharmaceutical drugs for mild-to-moderate toenail fungus. Although home cures have fewer adverse effects, there is little scientific proof that they function.
When treating toenail fungus, a variety of criteria are considered, including nail penetrability, infection severity, and general health.
Home treatments may take longer to eliminate toenail fungus than topical prescription drugs or oral systemic antifungals. You might not notice benefits for several months. Reinfection is frequent.
Once the infection has cleared, keep your toenails dry, clean, and well-trimmed.
Severe toenail fungus can cause discomfort and irreparable toenail destruction. If you try home cures to treat the illness and they don't work or create adverse effects, see your doctor.
