According to the Mayo Clinic, nail fungus or nail infections commonly manifest themselves as white or yellow spots under the tip of the infected nail. As the infection spreads, it can cause the nail to discolor more, thicken and begin to crumble or crack. While medical treatments are available, home remedies can help get rid of nail infections. However, these treatments have not been approved by the FDA, so talk with your doctor before starting any home treatment.
Tea Tree Oil and Jojoba Oil
According to Julie Gabriel, author of "The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, and Fragrances,” a mixture of tea tree oil and jojoba oil can be used as a natural remedy to get rid of a nail infection. To make and use this mixture, combine 1 tbsp. tea tree oil with 4 tbsp. jojoba oil in a small container or bowl and stir or shake to combine. Gently massage a small amount of the mixture onto the affected area and leave it on for 30 to 40 minutes. Rinse with cool water and wash with a gentle cleanser before patting the area dry with a clean towel or cloth. This treatment can be repeated daily as long as you do not notice any irritation or adverse side effects. Unused portions of this mixture can be stored in a cool, dark and dry place for up to 30 days.
Hydrogen Peroxide
According to Jethro Kloss, author of "Back to Eden: Classic Guide to Herbal Medicine, Natural Food and Home Remedies Since 1939,” hydrogen peroxide can help cure nail infections by killing bacteria. To use hydrogen peroxide as a natural treatment for nail infections, pour ½ cup in a bowl large enough to allow the affected area to be fully submerged. Soak the infected nail or nails for 15 minutes before rinsing the skin with cool water and washing with a mild cleanser and applying a gentle moisturizer to the skin around the nails. After using this treatment, discard the hydrogen peroxide used. This treatment can be repeated twice per day as long as you do not notice any adverse side effects or skin irritation to the areas around the nails.
Oregano Essential Oil and Olive Oil
According to Ann Worwood, author of "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy,” a mixture of oregano essential oil and olive oil can help get rid of nail infections. To make and use this mixture, combine 1 tbsp. oregano essential oil with 6 tbsp. olive oil in a small bowl or container and shake or stir to thoroughly combine the ingredients. Pour a small amount of the mixture onto a clean cotton ball or pad and gently rub the liquid onto the affected area with the cotton. Leave the liquid on the skin until it is almost dry, usually about 20 to 25 minutes before rinsing with cool water and washing with a mild cleanser. This treatment can be repeated daily as long as it does not irritate your skin or cause any additional redness. Unused portions of this mixture can be kept in a cool, dark place for up to one month.
References
- "The Green Beauty Guide: Your Essential Resource to Organic and Natural Skin Care, Hair Care, Makeup, and Fragrances"; Julie Gabriel; 2008
- "Back to Eden: Classic Guide to Herbal Medicine, Natural Food and Home Remedies Since 1939"; Jethro Kloss; 2004
- "The Complete Book of Essential Oils and Aromatherapy"; Ann Worwood; 1991
- Mayo Clinic: Nail Fungus
