How to Use Oregano Oil for Toenail Fungus | 4 Natural Treatments

Last Updated: May 10, 2018

Nail Fungus or Onychomycosis – a very common condition that occurs either in fingernails or toenails. Inflammation, crumbling, thickening, yellowing of the nail are few symptoms of nail fungus.

The main culprit behind the trigger of nail fungus is a moist environment. Apart from that weak immune system, abnormal pH levels, poor hygiene and diabetes can also develop a nail fungus.

Due to moisture or any other reasons when fungus thrives in toenail then toenail fungus is developed. When mold or yeast develops in fingernails then it is called fingernail fungus.

If the nail fungus is left untreated, it may lead to cracking and even loss of the nail. Nail fungus is not contagious but it is better not to share the footwear or gloves with others.

Oral antifungal pills or medicated nail polish or remover are generally prescribed for nail fungus. But simple home remedies like baking soda or oregano oil can provide better and effective results than medical treatments.

Note: To help this article read a little faster, we use the abbreviation (OO) for Oregano Oil throughout the article.

Is Oregano Oil Good For Nail Fungus?

Oregano oil contains antibacterial, antiparasitic, antiseptic, analgesic and antifungal properties which make it an amazing remedy to remove the nail fungus.

The compound carvacrol is the main reason behind the fungicidal properties of oregano oil.

When taken internally, it can fight off the candida virus within the body.

How to Use Oregano Oil for Toenail Fungus?

There are different ways to use oregano oil for foot fungus, foot meaning fungus in between the toes (like athlete’s foot) and fungus on the toenail. We are presenting a detail description of them below. Choose any of them as per your interest and try it regularly to get relief from the fungus infection. The following methods work for both toenail fungus and fingernail fungus.

1) Oregano Oil

OO can be applied topically and taken internally as well to control and reduce the nail fungus. If you don’t like the taste of OO, you can avoid internal consumption of OO. Or else you can try both internal consumption and topical application.

Topical Application:

• Take few drops of OO and gently rub it over the affected area of the nail and its surrounding areas.
• Let it stay until it is completely absorbed.
• Repeat the application 2 – 3 times a day.

Internal Consumption:

• Consume few drops of OO daily either diluting it with water or fruit juice.
• If you don’t like the taste of it, you take OO in supplements form as well.

2) Oregano Oil with Olive Oil

• Dilute 2 – 3 drops of OO into a teaspoon of olive oil.
• Apply the mixture on the affected part of the nail.
• Let it stay for 30 minutes.
• Rinse off with water and pat dry your toes completely.
• Repeat the process 2 times a day.

3) Oregano Oil with Melaleuca or Tea Tree Oil

As both OO and tea tree oil also contains antibacterial and an antifungal property, this process provides relief from nail fungus more effectively.

• Combine 3 drops of OO and 2 drops of tea tree oil.
• Apply the mixture on the affected area and surrounding parts of the nail.
• Let it stay for more than 30 minutes.
• Rinse off with water and pat dry the toes completely.
• Repeat the process 4 times a day.

4) Oregano with Coconut Oil

The lauric acid present in coconut oil contains antifungal and antibacterial properties. The nutrients in it strengthen then nail the cuticles which prevent the fungus from spreading.

Process 1:  Nail Fungus Ointment

• Combine 5 parts of coconut oil and 1 part of OO.
• Clean the affected area, pat dry and trim the infected nail.
• Apply a small amount of the mixture on the infection.
• Let it dry completely.
• Repeat the process 2 times a day.
• Note: If the application is causing burning sensation then reduce the amount of OO.

Process 2: With Other Essential Oils

• Combine 2 tablespoons of coconut oil (melted), 10 drops each of OO, garlic oil, clove oil, peppermint oil and tea tree oil.
• Mix the ingredients well and apply it over the nails.
• Massage the mixture for few minutes and leave it to dry completely.
• Repeat the process 2 – 4 times a day.

Are There Any Side Effects of Oil of Oregano for Toenail Fungus?

Oregano oil should be applied in very small quantities. Undiluted application of oregano oil can cause irritation and redness of the skin. As oregano oil is very strong it is good to dilute it with any other carrier oil. If the direct application is not causing side effects then you can use it directly. Oral usage of essential oil doesn’t have any significant side effects. However, a higher dosage of oregano oil or supplements can cause upset stomach and worsen bleeding. Furthermore, some people can be allergic to the essential oil so they should avoid it. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid oral consumption of oregano oil.

Tips and Precautions When Using Oregano Oil for Toenail Fungus Treatment:

• Patch test before trying regular treatments.
• Trim the nails and clean the nails before applying the treatment on nail fungus.
• Dry your feet and hands completely after showering.
• Keep the nails always dry to prevent the formation of fungus.
• Cut the nails short regularly.
• Avoid wearing shoes as much as you can. Try using flip flops often.
• Wear cotton socks to the nails breathe.
• Wash your socks regularly with hot water and soap.
• Dust some fungal powder before wearing socks.
• Avoid walking bare foot in public places, moist and damp areas.
• Don’t share your footwear with others.

Are you going to try oregano oil for treating your nail fungus then share your experience with us in the comments section below. For more articles, stay tuned with our website.

Rajee Datti

Hi everyone, this is Rajee!

I live the beautiful city of Baltimore, where my husband works.

I’m from India. I have been visiting India on and off for past few years and my mom was an inspiration for me to start this site. She has a wealth of knowledge on home remedies for a large number of health problems, and we grew up in an environment where frequent visits to the doctor just wasn’t logistically or financially feasible.

Despite this, she managed to raise a family of healthy kids, and my goal here at Home Remedies for Life is to pass on some of her knowledge of natural remedies.