Toenail infections are very common. They’re also unsightly, causing thickening and discoloration.

Fortunately, there are anecdotal reports of nail infections responding to essential oils. I do need to point out that this is not the same thing as a clinical trial, done in a medical setting. This is the scientific gold standard of proof.

Can Essential Oils Help Toenail Fungus?

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However, it is known that essential oils contain potent germ-killing compounds. Some of the aromatics most often used to treat toenail infections include lemon, lavender and tea tree oils. You can also find special essential oil blends specifically designed to restore the nails.

Using Essential Oils for Toenail Fungus

Some of the single oils, such as tea tree essential oil, have a reputation for being able to kill fungi. (Tea tree is one of the aromatics I use in my own house to attack fungus in my shower, around sink faucets and in my basement dehumidifier.)

It would be possible to use a single oil to treat infected toenails. However, you may want to consider a blend instead. That’s because it’s believed that using multiple oils at once creates a synergy. This means the oils work together in a potentially more powerful combination.

Highly Potent Nail Fungus Oil Blend

That’s why premixed aromatic recipes are often called Synergy Blends, such as the Derma Shield Synergy Blend shown below. This is sold by Plant Therapy, where I buy a lot of my own oils because I totally trust its commitment to quality. (I also appreciate the fact that Plant Therapy products are not sold through a multilevel marketing network. This means they’re not overpriced.)

Derma Shield contains a mix of tea tree, lavender, lemon, cedar, myrrh, tagetes and oregano essential oils. It comes undiluted and also in a roll on that includes the aromatics I just mentioned, plus fractionated coconut oil, so it can be applied directly to skin. The undiluted version must first be mixed with fractionated coconut or another carrier oil.

Derma Shield Synergy BlendDerma Shield Roll On

How to Use Essential Oils for Toenail Fungus

The roll on version of Derma Shield Synergy Blend is ready to use. You would apply this to your nails twice a day. This should be done after washing and then thoroughly drying your feet. Plant Therapy also recommends wearing cotton socks, and washing them between each wear.

In addition, you may want to think about rotating your shoes, so you wear them every other day. This gives thema  chance to air out.

Also, even though you may want to hide your toenails in close-toed shoes, it’s recommended that you don’t wear close toes shoes at home, to allow the air to hit your toenails. (Fungus thrives in damp, dark conditions.)

Essential Oil Protocol for Toenail Fungus

The undiluted Derma Shield Synergy Blend, on the other hand, is not designed for use without first adding a carrier oil. For toenail use, this would be a 25 percent dilution, or 1 part of Derma Shield to 3 parts carrier oil. You can then apply this mixture with a Q-tip twice a day.

It might take time to see results. Plant Therapy notes that it may take several months of consistent use before you notice a visible difference.

However, please understand that I’m not a medical professional. I write only from the perspective of someone who uses essential oils every day. They’re usually the first line of defense when I have a health problem. But I can’t claim or promise they’ll solve anyone else’s health problems.

Essential Oils and Toenail Fungus

One huge benefit of using essential oils for toenail fungus is that aromatherapy has a long history of use, for a wide range of physical and emotional conditions. Essential oils are also very safe when used as directed. They do not carry the side effects associated with prescription drugs. One pharmaceutical often recommended to treat nail infections has even been linked to seizures, irregular heartbeat and depression.

Another benefit of using natural essential oils, derived from plants, is that you can use them periodically for maintenance, to help keep those nasty infections away.

Disclaimer

These statements have not been approved by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not use essential oils unless directed to do so by a healthcare provider.