Get Rid of Toenail Fungus Naturally with These 10 Tips

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) may help balance the skin’s pH and create an environment that’s less hospitable to fungus. For topical use, combine one-third cup of ACV with Epsom salts and two cups of hot water, then let it cool to a comfortable temperature. Soak your feet for 30 minutes, once or twice daily. For oral use, some people mix two tablespoons of ACV with 16 ounces of warm water. A small amount of honey can improve the flavor.

Olive leaf extract contains compounds with antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects. It may also support immune function, potentially helping the body fight the underlying infection. While generally well tolerated, some users experience headaches or digestive upset. Choose a reputable brand and follow dosage guidelines.

Tea tree oil is widely used as a natural antifungal. After trimming and cleaning the affected nail (sterilizing tools first), apply diluted tea tree oil directly to the area and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Repeat two to three times daily. Because tea tree oil can be irritating, it’s best to mix it with a carrier oil such as olive or almond before applying

Orange oil also contains antifungal properties. Use a dropper to apply it directly to the affected toenail and the surrounding area. Let it sit for up to an hour. People with sensitive skin should test a small area first and dilute the oil with coconut or olive oil if needed.

Cornmeal contains a benign fungus that may help eliminate Candida, a common cause of nail infections. Mix cornmeal and water to create a thick paste in a shallow basin, then soak the foot for 30 minutes or longer. Repeat every other day for several weeks for best results.

Toenail fungus requires an acidic environment to grow. Sodium borate and baking soda are both alkaline and, when applied to the infected toenail, lower the acidity, preventing the fungus from growing. Together, these two are a powerful natural treatment. Create a paste by mixing equal parts of baking soda and sodium borate with a small amount of water. Massage the mixture onto the infected foot three or four times a week. Continue after the fungus has cleared for about four weeks to keep it from coming back.

Coconut oil contains caprylic acid, which can penetrate the cell walls of Candida and other fungi. Once the coconut oil gets into the cells of the fungus, they lose their protective cell wall and are destroyed. Let your toenail soak in coconut oil for about 15 minutes at a time. It is fine to repeat this process often because coconut oil should not harm your skin. It has many other topical benefits, including moisturizing.

Lavender oil is an ideal at-home treatment for mild cases of toe fungus. Each night, rub a few drops onto the infected area and cover your feet with wool socks. Don't wear socks with synthetic fibers, as this can worsen the infection by retaining moisture. In the morning, remove your socks and continue about your day. Repeat this process for a few weeks, even if your toenail fungus appears healed, to make sure the infection doesn't return.

Oregano has antifungal properties that help treat toenail fungus. It is easy to make your own oregano oil from home-grown herbs, but it is also an affordable essential oil available in most stores. Be sure to mix the oregano oil with a bit of carrier oil before applying it to the infected toe. Oregano oil is generally mild and should not cause a lot of side effects.

An imbalance of microflora is one cause of fungal infection. Pair your at-home remedies with a probiotic supplement to help fight toenail fungus and prevent it from recurring. Probiotic supplements have lactobacillus bacteria, which secretes a by-product poisonous to Candida. The supplement also promotes healthy gut bacteria that hinders the spread of parasitic fungi. Use a probiotic that does not contain any sugar or artificial fillers for the best results.