Toenail fungus is a common problem and its symptoms include inflammation, swelling, yellowing, thickening or crumbling of the nail. It is not usually painful but if it is, be assured you have acquired a severe infection from it. Toenail fungus is curable and can be treated inexpensively. Natural home remedies can cure the infection in one or two months. Any remedy for toe nail fungus takes few months and you need to be patient since the fungus is quite stubborn and spreads to the surrounding. Here are some essential oils to treat toenail fungus:
TEA TREE OIL
Mix 3-4 drops of tea tree oil in one teaspoon of coconut oil. Use a cotton ball to apply the mixture on the affected toenail. Leave it that way for 10 minutes. You can now use a toothbrush to gently scrub the affected nail. Do this two or three times daily until all the symptoms of toe nail fungus go away, or till you see no white patch on the nail.
OREGANO OIL
Mix two drops of oil of oregano in one teaspoon of coconut oil and apply this mixture on the affected nail. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes and then, rinse it off and dry your toes thoroughly making sure you don’t leave behind any humidity. Repeat once or twice daily for three weeks to see positive results.
ORANGE OIL
Orange oil can directly be used on toenail for treating toenail fungus. Using a dropper, apply pure orange oil between your toes and on and under your toenails. Leave it on for at least 30 minutes and repeat two or three times daily until you see no white patch on the nail.
LAVENDER OIL
You need to mix few drops each of lavender oil and tea tree oil in equal proportions. Use a cotton ball to apply this solution under the top edge of the affected toenail and surrounding area including skin. Leave it on for at least 15 minutes, rinse it off and dry your toes thoroughly. Repeat this two or three times a day.
THYME OIL
Apply a few drops of thyme oil to the infected nails every night and let it soak in while you sleep. To prevent the oil from rubbing off, you can optionally cover your feet with a pair of wool socks. Also, make sure you use this oil on cleansed feet.
CLOVE OIL
Clove is an essential oil with powerful antifungal applications because of its elevated euganol content, which is a chemical compound offering excellent antifungal activity. To use this oil, mix it with olive oil (equal proportions) and apply it on the nail, under it and around the skin as well. Wash off after 30 minutes. This oil can also be used in foot soak
SOME TIPS:
– Do not use nail polish while you are treating your fungus as it prevents the nail bed from breathing properly.
– Regularly wash your feet with soap and water and dry them well not forgetting the areas between your toes.
– Always keep the feet dry and wear clean socks. Warm moist environments are the most favourable for the fungi to grow.
– Trim and cleanse your nails regularly.