3 Ways To Treat Nail Fungus With Oregano Oil

Fungal nail infections are common, but they’re hard to treat. You’ll need an antifungal treatment. Instead of prescription medication, you can try oregano oil, which has natural anti-fungal properties. Oregano oil pills can fight the fungi from inside out, but they do have an after taste. Not a fan? Use oregano essential oil instead.

But before using oregano oil, you have to make sure that you’re definitely dealing with fungi. An infected nail will look yellow, white, or brown. It’ll also be thicker and duller than usual. Crumbling, cracking, and fragile edges are a dead giveaway.¹

What makes oregano oil effective are its active compounds thymol and carvacrol.² These antifungal compounds are also anti-inflammatory, making them a top choice for fungal nail infections.³ Here are a few methods you can try to treat a fungal nail infection with oregano oil:

1. Oregano Oil Moisturizer

For a moisturizing option, combine oregano oil with a carrier. Examples include olive, avocado, and grapeseed oils. This method will also make your skin feel nice and smooth.

Ingredients

• 5 drops of oregano oil
• 1 tablespoon carrier oil

Steps

1. In a small container, mix 5 drops of oregano oil for every 1 tablespoon carrier oil. Stir it well.
2. Apply to the infected nail with a clean finger or cotton swab.
3. Let it sit for 30 minutes and then rinse off with water. Pat dry with a clean paper towel. Repeat at twice a day.
4. If the treatment burns your skin, add fewer drops of oregano oil.

2. Oregano Oil And Tea Tree Blend

Like oregano oil, tea tree oil is a powerful antifungal remedy.⁴ Combine the two for even greater benefits. But don’t forget to dilute this blend as tea tree oil is very strong.

Ingredients

• 2 to 3 drops oregano oil
• 2 to 3 drops tea tree oil
• 1 tablespoon carrier oil

Steps

1. Combine the ingredients and mix well.
2. Using a clean finger or cotton swab, apply the mixture to the infected nail.
3. After 30 minutes, carefully rinse off with water.
4. Pat dry with a clean paper towel.
5. Repeat twice a day.

3. Oregano Oil Leave-In Cream

You can make a leave-in treatment with coconut oil, which has lauric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid with antifungal and antibacterial activity.⁵ Many people also love coconut oil for its moisturizing benefits.

Ingredients

• 2 drops of oregano oil
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil

Steps

1. Stir the coconut oil until it turns into a liquid.
2. Add oregano oil and mix well.
3. Carefully apply a small amount to the infected nail and leave to dry completely.
4. Repeat twice a day.

How To Prevent Fungal Nail Infections

Nail fungus can affect anyone, but these tips will lower your chances.

• Keep your nails short and clean.
• Never share nail clippers with others. It’s a great way to transfer microbes, including fungi.
• Limit the moisture by keeping your hands and feet dry.
• Let your feet air out. If you don’t need to wear socks, then don’t.
• If it’s hot out, wear open-toed shoes. This will prevent moisture build-up and smelly feet!
• Do you go to nail salons? Choose a reputable, clean spot. Check to make sure the manicurist sanitizes every single tool.
• Never walk barefoot in the gym, locker rooms, or public bathrooms.

As your nail heals, practice proper hygiene. Don’t let it stay wet for too long. With patience and time, you can naturally beat nail fungus.