Nail or skin fungus is a rather unpleasant phenomenon, accompanied by a lot of unpleasant sensations in the form of itching, inflammation, swelling, and discoloration of the outer skin. In order to get rid of such diseases, they often resort to the use of various medications, which are characterized by a number of adverse reactions. Then essential oils against fungus come to the rescue , which, due to their unique properties, are highly effective in the fight against fungal infections.
Nail fungus - which oil will help?
There are several types of effective essential oils for nail fungus:
- Tea tree. Known for its antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal effects, which can also be accompanied by regenerating and anti-inflammatory effects. Essential tea essence has a strengthening effect on the body's immune system, thanks to which even an advanced case can be treated, since quite often one of the provoking factors for the appearance of nail fungus is a weakened immune system. Detailed article on using tea tree oil for fungus.
- Oregano. The presented essential oil for nail fungus is a natural antifungal agent with a powerful effect, since the plant contains carvacrol, which is an effective bactericidal substance that easily fights fungi and bacteria.
- Lavender. It is characterized by an antiseptic and analgesic effect. It goes well with tea essential oil, together with which it only enhances its properties. Read more about.
- Carnation. The eugenol present in the plant quickly fights fungal infections, and capsacin fights pain and inflammation.
- Cinnamon. It is a highly effective remedy for getting rid of yeast-type fungi.
Getting rid of nail fungus becomes possible in several ways:
a) Any essential essence is applied to the affected nail several times a day.
b) A cotton pad is moistened in a mixture of aromatic extract, after which it is applied to the affected area, where it is left overnight. To fix the disc, you can use a patch.
c) Baths with the addition of essential mixtures are also very effective. To prepare a universal bath, dissolve 10 drops of any aromatic oil in 3 liters of water. The duration of such a therapeutic bath is about 15 minutes.
Below are just a few effective recipes to combat nail fungus:
1. Medicinal powder:
- Corn flour or talc in the amount of a couple of tablespoons is placed in a plastic container.
- Then 15 drops of lavender essential oil and 5 drops of mint are added to the selected component.
- The resulting composition is thoroughly mixed and left for a day.
- The powder is applied to the previously cleaned nail surface.
2. Compress:
- Vinegar 9% in the amount of 8 tablespoons is mixed with tea tree and lavender essential oils in the amount of one quarter teaspoon each.
- Gauze or cotton wool is moistened in the resulting mixture, and then applied to the affected areas, where it is left for 15 minutes.
Skin fungus - what and how to apply?
In the fight against fungal skin lesions, fungal essential oils, characterized by soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, are very effective. These include: eucalyptus, chamomile, sage, lavender, thyme, tea tree, calendula, mint.
The main ways to get rid of skin fungus are local baths and spot application:
1. Ointment:
- Essential oils for fungus in the form of patchouli in an amount of 5 drops and bergamot in an amount of 7 drops are mixed with birch tar and camphor oil in an amount of 3 drops each.
- Using any fabric material soaked in the resulting composition, the affected skin surfaces are treated, which must first be cleaned.
- A fixing bandage is applied on top, with a thin sock placed on top.
2. Spray:
- In 10 ml of alcohol, dilute 5 drops of essential essence of yarrow and fir each, as well as 8 drops of aromatic lemon extract.
- A small amount of water is added to the resulting mixture, after which the composition is placed in a cool, dark place for a week.
- The solution is then poured into a small spray bottle and sprayed onto the affected areas.
3. Baths for itching
To prepare local baths, you can use regular sea salt with the addition of essential essences of fir or basil. It is also possible to prepare an emulsion based on dairy products in the form of cream, sour cream or milk. In this case, the proportion should be as follows: add 9 drops of essential oil to half a glass of dairy product.
The most effective aromatic mixtures in the fight against itching sensations are: basil, thuja, juniper.
Fungal infections are very common and are considered one of the most contagious diseases, easily transmitted from person to person. Despite the large number of different medicines in a variety of forms, essential oils occupy an important place in the treatment of many fungal infections. They are safe and belong to natural remedies. Many people are well aware of the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of essential oils, but forget that they can also be used to treat fungal infections. Therefore, in this article you will find a list of the best essential oils with antifungal properties.
Many essential oils have been well studied and scientifically proven to have antifungal properties and can help fight some such diseases. But before you start treating a fungal infection with essential oils, you should definitely consult a dermatologist.
Major fungal infections
We all have a certain amount of fungi and yeast in our bodies and they don’t bother us at all until a certain point. However, when certain situations arise, for example, when the immune system is weakened, a fungal infection begins.
The most common fungal infections are:
Athlete's foot;
Onychomycosis or nail fungus;
Ringworm;
Inguinal ringworm;
Candidiasis.
Onychomycosis, or as this infection is also called “athlete’s foot,” as it is very common among athletes who are forced to wear shoes for a long time, affects the feet and nails. This disease causes redness and peeling of the skin, burning, itching, and sometimes there may be blisters and ulcers in the affected area.
The fungus thrives in moist and warm environments such as wet socks from sweaty feet or wet pool floors. It often appears in people who wear tight shoes, sneakers and who do not use individual shoes in swimming pools, saunas, and showers.
Tinea groin is also a common fungal skin infection that is caused by a fungus known as tinea versicolor. This type of fungus grows in moist, warm areas of the body and, as a result, often affects the genitals, inner thighs and buttocks.
Infection occurs mostly during hot weather or warm, humid climates. 
Shingles appears as a red, itchy, round or ring-shaped rash. This infection is contagious and spreads quickly and easily from person to person through direct contact or through objects.
Ringworm can occur in any part of the body. They are usually infected from sick animals or humans, furniture or contaminated clothing. A red circle appears at the site of infection, the skin becomes scaly and peels off.
There are many medications available for fungal infections. They are generally effective in treating such infections. But they have a significant disadvantage - there are quite a lot of contraindications and side effects, they are far from harmless to the body and over time can cause resistance to the disease. In this case, it will be necessary to select a new treatment.
It's no surprise that there is a constant demand for safe, natural, and least side-effect treatments for fungal infections. These products include essential oils with antifungal properties.
Essential oils can be safely used to treat fungal infections without the fear of any side effects or addiction.
Essential oils for treating fungal infections
Considering the number of contraindications and side effects of antifungal medications, essential oils are a much safer choice for treating fungal infections.
Antifungal oils have been well and thoroughly studied. All the research that has been done proves that some essential oils act as powerful antifungal agents. These oils are made up of complex chemical components that are effective in treating fungus and yeast. When used correctly, these oils are a natural way to treat fungal diseases such as thrush, ochinomycosis and others.
The following oils are not a definitive list of oils that can help treat yeast infections. Research in this area continues and other new oils with antifungal properties may become available. And now a list of essential oils that can be used against fungal diseases.
Clove essential oil
Clove essential oil is one of the best essential oils that can be used against fungal infections. Studies have shown that it can help treat at least 15 types of fungi, including candida fungus.
The main active ingredient of clove oil, evengol, has powerful antifungal properties.
Before using on the skin, the oil must be diluted with a carrier oil. This oil is good for many diseases of the oral cavity, toothache.
Clove oil combines well with other oils, such as rosemary oil, basil oil, cinnamon oil, rosewood oil, grapefruit oil, enhancing the joint effect in the treatment of diseases.
Lavender essential oil
Lavender essential oil has been shown to be potentially lethal to many strains of fungi, including the strains that cause candidiasis and dermatomycosis. Lavender destroys the cell membrane, thereby causing the death of fungi.
Before using lavender oil on the skin, be sure to dilute it with a carrier oil. 
Tea tree essential oil
Tea tree essential oil is effective for many fungal and bacterial infections. It can be used to treat many fungal diseases, including candidiasis.
A contraindication to the use of oil may be its highly allergic reaction, which can be life-threatening. It can cause itching, redness, and blistering, which in turn can lead to burns and irritation of the skin, which will aggravate the skin condition and can cause skin conditions such as eczema.
Therefore, tea tree oil should be used carefully and diluted with a carrier oil. Do not use this oil internally.
Cassia essential oil
This oil has antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal properties. Cassia oil is known as Chinese cinnamon and is grown throughout southern and eastern Asia.
Before using on the skin, dilute in a ratio of at least 1 drop of oil to at least 3 drops of carrier oil.
Cinnamon essential oil
Cinnamon essential oil is closely related to cassia oil. Cinnamon oil is also famous for its antifungal, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties.
It can be used to treat many fungal diseases, including strains of staph.
For topical use on the skin, the oil must be diluted and used with caution, as this oil is a potent oil. For this reason, you should not inhale cinnamon oil directly from the bottle.
Thyme essential oil
Thyme essential oil can be used to treat mold on walls. Research has found that this oil is very effective against staphylococci.
Be sure to dilute before using on the skin so as not to cause an allergic reaction. Use with great caution, as even in diluted form, the use of oil can lead to an allergic reaction. Therefore, before treating the entire affected area of skin, you need to test on a small area of skin.
Geranium essential oil
Geranium essential oil is a very popular essential oil in aromatherapy and is used to treat many problems. It is valued for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. This oil has an effect on many fungi, suppressing their growth and reproduction and is considered the most effective when used.
Geranium oil can be used to treat mycosis by adding 4-5 drops of oil to a foot bath. You can rub the oil directly into the skin of your feet after diluting it with a carrier oil.
Oregano essential oil
Like thyme and oregano essential oils, this oil is often used for flavoring in cooking. The oil has a very powerful effect on fungi. Studies have shown that oregano oil can be used to treat mycosis, candida, and fungal infections of the feet, including nail fungus.
Fungal foot infections can be treated by adding the oil to a foot bath, or directly on the skin by rubbing it into the skin. Before use, be sure to mix with carrier oil. 
Lemongrass essential oil
Essential oil of lemongrass, lemongrass, can be used to treat many diseases, including fungal ones. This oil destroys the cell membrane of fungi, causing their death. It effectively acts on the fungus that causes ringworm, ochinomycosis.
This oil is also included in the list of oils that can help treat staphylococcal infections.
Although lemongrass oil is considered safe to use, it still needs to be diluted with a carrier oil before using it on the skin.
How to Use Essential Oils to Treat Fungal Infections
In addition to painful discomfort, fungal infections also cause aesthetic discomfort. Having such an infection, it can be embarrassing to visit public places and you have to refuse many procedures: visiting the pool, gym, and more.
Therefore, it is natural to want to get rid of a fungal infection as quickly as possible and lead a normal lifestyle. Having decided to start treating a disease with essential oils, the question arises of how to do it correctly. Here are some tips on this matter.
When treating a fungal skin infection, any essential oil must be diluted with a carrier oil. For this you can use olive, sunflower oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil or other cosmetic oil.
Nail fungus can be treated by applying the oil directly to the skin. But you need to be careful that the oil does not get on the skin around the nail and cause burns or irritation.
Consult a specialist before starting treatment.
Do not use essential oils internally.
As mentioned above, the above list of essential oils that can help treat fungal infections is not final or complete. Other essential oils, such as cypress, frankincense, chamomile, mint, sage, rosemary, and lemon, also have antifungal properties.
The quality of the essential oil is very important. Therefore, it is imperative to buy natural essential oils. Only they have all the medicinal properties, not just the aroma, and are suitable for treating fungal infections.
The cause of the prevalence of fungal diseases is about a hundred species of fungi that affect almost all parts of the body - the skin, the mucous membrane of the mouth and genitals, nails, and internal organs.
In order not to fall into the clutches of this enemy, prevention should be carried out, which consists of following standard rules of personal hygiene, procedures to prevent excessive sweating, wearing only comfortable shoes, thoroughly drying the skin after bathing, and mandatory boiling of socks and stockings when washing and then rinsing them in solutions of essential oils. It is also necessary to iron the clothes with an iron after. Ointment is also used for prevention.
Ways to combat fungal diseases
Japanese and American experts have confirmed the positive results of the effect of essential oils on certain types of mushrooms. As a result, it was found that clove, pine and sage oils actively counteract fifteen types of mushrooms.
The most effective drugs that can destroy fungal spores
Using the results of research by foreign colleagues, scientists have created compositions of essential oils for people who suffer from fungal infections of the mucous membranes and skin.
Among them is a composition of essential oils of lemon, lavender, anise, and tea tree oil. This remedy can effectively resist fungus that affects the human nail plate.
To combat such a nuisance as tea tree ether is used in almost all mixtures or independently.
Oil is made only from tea tree leaves, which contain valuable anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and antifungal substances.
The main components of this oil are considered to be the following substances: alpha phellandrene, beta sabinene and pinene, which help the body actively fight various diseases, including fungal ones.
Natural essential oils help not only get rid of nail fungus, but also saturate the nail plates with beneficial vitamins and microelements. They are added to medicinal baths and compositions for compresses. With regular use, essential oils return your nails to a healthy and well-groomed appearance.
Anti-fungal oils have healing properties. Almost all of them have a pronounced antiseptic effect. The composition applied to the nail begins to actively act in its outer and deep layers. Essential oils do an excellent job of treating the main signs of a fungal infection on the feet or hands:
- Unpleasant odor;
- Burning;
- Redness;
- Microcracks;
- Pain syndrome.
Essential oils have a unique property - the ability to penetrate deep into the skin or nail
Essential oil for fungus after application significantly cools the nail plate, thereby reducing the severity of the unpleasant symptoms of onychomycosis. The heaviness and tension that prevents the patient from fully relaxing disappears.
Despite its effectiveness in fighting infection, it will not be possible to completely get rid of the fungus with the help of essential oils even at the initial stage of the disease. Fungal infections should be treated with local pharmaceutical medications. And folk remedies act only as an auxiliary therapy that enhances the effectiveness of the main treatment.
Terms of use
You can start using the selected essential oil for nail fungus on your toes or hands only after an allergy test has been performed. This is a mandatory preparatory procedure that helps identify allergies to the product.
To check, simply apply a small amount of oil to your wrist or inner elbow. If within a few minutes there is no redness or itching in this area, then the product is suitable for use by a specific person. Otherwise, you need to immediately wash off the oil and completely stop using it.
When using essential oils in the fight against nail fungus, it is recommended to adhere to the following recommendations:
- Before applying the oil composition, it is recommended to dilute it slightly with vegetable or cosmetic oil. After this, you can rub the product into the nail and the skin around it. The procedure is repeated 3 times a day for several months;
- The oil is suitable for making applications. They are best made from several types of compositions, taken in equal proportions. In the finished product, moisten a clean swab or cotton wool pad generously and apply it to the affected area. Additionally, it is recommended to secure the application with a bandage or adhesive tape;
- Before applying essential oil, you need to steam your nails well. For this purpose, baths with hot water, tar soap and soda are used. The procedure lasts on average about 15 minutes. At the end of bathing, you need to remove moisture from your nails and fingers.
Baths with the addition of essential oils are good for the prevention of onychomycosis.
Most essential oils must be diluted in a carrier oil before use.
The most effective essential oils
Different types of essential oils are famous for their antifungal effect. To destroy nail fungus, formulations based on natural plants are suitable.
Cinnamon
The spice, beloved by many, helps suppress the activity of a fungal infection that has affected the nails on the fingers or toes. You need to handle it very carefully.
Oil made from cinnamon has an aggressive effect. Therefore, it must be diluted before applying to the affected areas.
Typically mix 2% oil with 98% hot water. The resulting solution is suitable for preparing a bath in which you need to keep the limbs for 20 minutes.
If the fungus has severely damaged the nail plates, you can lubricate them with cinnamon oil. After applying the composition, you usually feel very warm. This is a normal reaction that you just need to endure.
Tea tree
Tea tree oil is a powerful antiseptic
The oil is obtained from the petals of the tea tree. This remedy is actively used in aromatherapy. It can often be seen in cosmetic skin care products. Tea tree oil has the following properties:
- Antifungal;
- Antiseptic;
- Bactericidal.
It is sometimes considered as an anti-inflammatory and antiviral drug. An oily substance quickly envelops the affected nail and penetrates into its deeper layers. Regular application of this product can increase the effectiveness of traditional treatment of onychomycosis.
Tea tree oil is ideal for applying compresses that fight fungal spores.
Carnation
Clove oil is recommended for use during the treatment of onychomycosis due to its antiseptic and antifungal effects. These healing qualities are provided by the active substances of the plant - capsacioma and eugenol. They cope well with infection and help reduce pain in the area affected by pathogenic microflora.
Fir
Fir oil is also used in aromatherapy
Fir-based essential oils effectively help get rid of nail fungus. According to the principle of action, they are no different from other similar natural products. The method of using fir oil is also standard.
To treat affected nails, you just need to soak a clean cotton swab in the essential product and apply it to the nail plates. This compress is kept for 30 minutes.
This procedure with fir oil is best carried out once a day for 10 days. During this time, a person will be able to reduce the severity of signs of onychomycosis and stop the activity of the fungus.
Oregano
Oregano oil is obtained by special processing of oregano. The finished ether has a fungicidal effect. Therefore, it makes sense to use it in the fight against fungal nail infections.
Oregano oil can cause severe tissue damage if used incorrectly. This product causes irritation and itching on the skin. If the oily composition does end up on the epidermis, it should be immediately removed with a clean cotton pad, which must first be moistened in water.
This product is best diluted in olive oil to reduce its aggressive effect. To obtain a remedy, just dilute it in 1 tbsp. l. of the base product, only 2-3 drops of oregano ether. This mixture must be lubricated every day for 3 weeks.
Like most other oils, in its pure form the product can cause burns.
Celandine
Treatment of nail fungus on the hands and feet is carried out with essential oils that were obtained from celandine. You can buy this product at any pharmacy. This product has the following properties:
- Healing;
- Bactericidal;
- Cleansing;
- Anti-inflammatory;
- Antifungal.
Treatment with celandine essential oil is carried out in different ways. Before applying it to your nails, it is advisable to steam them well in a hot bath to which soda has been added. An oily composition is applied to the softened plates in a thin layer.
This treatment regimen must be followed until complete recovery. It is advisable to carry out procedures using celandine oil daily.
Lemon
Lemon oil is also successfully used in cosmetology
Lemon oil is used in many industries that concern human health. It is added to various cosmetic creams, shampoos and masks. This product is also useful for nails.
Lemon essential oil helps strengthen the nail plate and improve the condition of the periungual skin. These properties will be useful during recovery after recovery from onychomycosis.
Lemon oil treats many types of fungal infections. Most often, this product is added to hot nail baths. However, you should not abuse them. Excessive use of citrus-based essential oil will cause your nails to dry out and split.
It is best to take nail baths with lemon oil no more than once a week. This treatment course must be followed for 2-3 months. Experts recommend combining this product with other essential oils, which also have an antifungal effect and help protect nails from drying out.
Natural essential oils can be used in combination with products that are beneficial for healthy nails. When preparing folk remedies, they are often mixed with iodine, honey and vitamin E solution.
If essential oils are used strictly according to the instructions, then after such treatment the patient does not experience any negative reactions that worsen the condition of the nails and his general well-being.
Fungal plaque on the nails or onychomycosis has many unpleasant symptoms, both in appearance and in sensation. If basic hygiene standards are not observed, the pathogen enters the nail through a small crack and begins to multiply quickly. The use of pharmaceutical drugs, and in some cases, surgery, helps eliminate the disease. People who prefer gentle, natural methods should try tea tree oil for nail fungus.
Description and composition
This substance is a powerful antiseptic created by nature itself and has an effective antifungal and disinfectant effect. Properly made oil has a clear appearance with a pale olive or yellowish tint, as well as a fresh, woody, spicy odor.
Tea tree essential oil has a unique composition, which includes about 95 ingredients. Among them:
- monoterpenes (up to 50%);
- cineole (up to 15%);
- diterpenes (up to 40%).
In addition, the substance contains some rare components that can successfully fight a huge number of pathogenic bacteria and most fungi.
Effect on fungal cells
Even in ancient times, tea tree oil was actively used to heal many diseases. The product is also used for fungus, as it is characterized by a strong antiseptic and antimicrobial effect, effectively and quite quickly destroys viruses and fungal cells. The substance has a beneficial effect on nails, restoring and strengthening their structure.
Contraindications
The components that make up the oil are completely safe for the human body. However, some contraindications are still worth noting. It is not recommended to use it if you are prone to bronchial asthma and asthma attacks, since the drug can provoke an exacerbation of symptoms. Some people experience individual intolerance.
Recipes
Pure use
Tea tree helps against toenail fungus if you use it to treat the damaged areas. The product is first slightly warmed up and then rubbed into the nail plate. As a preventive measure, it is recommended to apply the substance to healthy nails. The procedure is effective only at the initial stage of onychomycosis development; it should be repeated for 2–3 months, 2 times a day.
With essential oils
In order to eliminate fungal plaque, you need to mix several types of essential oils:
- thyme;
- olive;
- tea tree.
A few drops of the resulting composition are applied to sore nails. After 15 minutes, gently rub in the product with a toothbrush. Oil for nail fungus is beneficial when thoroughly rubbed in, when the active components penetrate as deeply as possible into the affected area.
Compresses
- The disease can be treated with a compress. To do this, you need to soak a cotton pad in oil, apply it to the infected area, cover it with film and secure it with a band-aid. The compress is kept for 20 minutes.
- The use of tea tree oil with honey gives positive results if it is also used in the form of compresses. It will take 1 tsp. slightly warmed honey, a couple of drops of oil. A cotton pad soaked in the mixture is applied to the sore spot for 20 minutes.
Baths
Fungal cells are destroyed by tea tree oil if you take baths with this component for 30 days. To do this you will need to take:
- 1 tsp. sea salt;
- 1 tsp. soda;
- 1 tsp. honey;
- 20 drops of oil.
All this should be added to 1 liter of water, heated to a temperature that the patient can withstand. The procedure continues until the water cools down and is repeated daily. Such baths are good for preventing illness.
The following solution will also be effective: add 20 drops of essential oil and a small amount of shower gel or liquid soap to a liter of hot water. The feet must be kept in the medicinal composition until it cools down. Treatment of nail fungus involves repeating the procedure every day for 2 months.
Tea tree oil against nail fungus (7 drops) has a detrimental effect on the disease in combination with oregano oil (2 drops) and 9% vinegar (0.5 cup). The components are added to heated water and mixed. The bath should be taken for 20 minutes, and the solution should reach the ankles.
Another good recipe calls for adding a few drops of tea tree oil and 1 tsp. honey in 0.5 liters of hot water. You need to keep your feet in the bath for about 20 minutes.
Tea tree oil for nails is an effective, affordable remedy that helps in the fight against onychomycosis. Strict adherence to the recipe, as well as compliance with contraindications and preventive measures, will help you forget about the unpleasant symptoms of the disease for a long time.