How to Use Lavender Oil for Toenail Fungus | 8 Natural DIY Remedies

Nail fungus infection is a persistent and embarrassing problem which is occasionally painful. A nail fungus infection is developed when fungi or mold burrow under the nails making the nail discolored, thick and distorted. Nail fungus infection can develop on both toenail and fingernails.

A white or yellow spot appearing on the tip of the nail is considered one of the first symptoms of a nail fungus infection. If left untreated, nail fungus can thicken and distort the nails. Moreover, the nail separates from the nail bed causing pain and slightly foul-smelling odor.

Sweaty shoes/socks, continuous exposure to moist environments, walking barefoot at swimming pool/gym/public bathrooms and having pedicure using tools that are not sanitized are some of the reasons why nail fungus develops.

People with diabetes, athlete’s foot and, weak immune system are more prone to nail fungus.

Antifungal creams and oral antifungal medications are prescribed for nail fungus treatment but their effectiveness is questionable. They also have side effects that include skin rashes.

Traditionally, nail fungus can be treated with natural remedies like lavender oil, apple cider vinegar or coconut oil. Let’s learn how lavender oil helps in treating nail fungus without side effects.

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

Is Lavender Oil Good for Toenail Fungus?

• Lavender oil contains anti-fungal properties which deal with the fungus.
• It creates a protective layer to the nails which protects the nails from moisture.
• Apart from clearing the fungus, it also makes the skin around the nail healthy and shiny.

How to Use Lavender Oil for Toenail Fungus?

We have mentioned different remedies with a step-by-step process. Choose any remedy as per your preference and try it regularly. Before trying any remedy, using nail clippers cut as much as infected nail and file the thickened portions of the nail by rubbing the nail surface. This ensures deep penetration of lavender oil which provides effective results.

The remedies mentioned below are effective for both toenail fungus and fingernail fungus.

1. Lavender Oil

Apply a drop of LO on the infected nail and let it dry completely. Repeat the application 2 – 3 times a day.

2. Lavender Oil with Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil contains antimicrobial and antifungal properties which deal with the fungus. The combination of tea tree oil and LO provides more effective results than LO alone.

Process 1: Topical Application

• Add a drop each of LO and tea tree oil on the infected part of the nail.
• Leave it on to dry completely.
• Repeat the application once in the morning and once before going to bed.
• Alternatively, you can dip a cotton ball in LO, place it on the affected nail and secure it with a band-aid. Leave it on for 4- 5 hours and replace with a new one.

Process 2: Soaking

• Combine 5 – 7 drops each of LO and tea tree oil.
• Fill a basin with warm water and add the oil mixture.
• Soak your feet in the mixture for 20 minutes.
• Rinse off with water and pat the affected area completely dry.
• Repeat the process 2 – 3 times daily.

3. Lavender Oil with Epsom Salt

This process enables a deep penetration of the oil in the affected area. It helps in clearing away the dead fungus remains.

• Fill a basin with lukewarm water.
• Add 5 drops of LO and few tablespoons of Epsom salt.
• Stir well with your hands until the salts get dissolved.
• Soak your foot in the mixture for 20 minutes.
• Rinse off with water and pat the affected area completely dry.

4. Lavender Oil with Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar contains antifungal properties which will prevent fungal infections. Apart from that, it will balance the skin’s pH level around the nail.

Process 1:

• Into a dark bottle, pour 30ml pure rose water, 6 drops of tea tree oil, 4 tablespoons each of apple cider vinegar and LO.
• Close the lid of the bottle and shake thoroughly.
• Take enough amounts of solution and apply it on the affected area of the nail.
• Leave it to dry completely.
• Repeat the application at least 3 times a day.
• Note: Don’t forget to shake well before use.

Process 2:

• Into a dark bottle, add 10 drops of LO, 4 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and 6 drops of tea tree oil.
• Close the lid and shake the bottle.
• Now, open the lid and add 1/8 cup of distilled or boiled water into the bottle.
• Close the lid and shake the bottle vigorously until the ingredients mix well.
• Take a small amount of the solution and apply it on the affected area of the nail.
• Leave it to dry completely.
• Apply the solution 3 times a day until nail fungus infection clears.

5. Antifungal Powder with Lavender Oil

This powder should be applied on the feet especially on the infected area before wearing socks. This powder absorbs the moisture and stops spreading of the fungus infection.

• Into a Ziploc bag, add 4 tablespoons of corn starch or unscented talcum powder, 10 drops of LO and 15 drops of tea tree oil.
• Seal the bag and shake it well until the ingredients get incorporated.
• Keep it aside for 24 hours.
• Apply enough amounts of powder on the affected nails before wearing socks.
• Note: Make sure to shake the mixture before each use.

6. Lavender Oil with Pau d’Arco

Pau d’Arco is an antifungal herb which helps in treating and preventing nail fungus. This application should be used for at least for 20 minutes.

• Combine 1/4 teaspoon of LO, 2 tablespoons of Pau d’Arco, 8 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1/8 teaspoon of peppermint oil and 1/4 teaspoon of tea tree oil.
• Stir the ingredients well.
• Dip a cotton ball in the mixture and place it on the infected nail.
• Secure the cotton ball with a band-aid and let it stay for at least 20 minutes.
• Remove and repeat the process.
• Repeat the application at least 3 times a day.

7. Lavender Oil with Baking Soda

This result of the process can be used as an antifungal powder. Use it daily before wearing your footwear.

• Combine 1/2 cup of baking soda, 15 drops each of LO and tea tree oil.
• Mix the ingredients well and pour it into an airtight container.
• Dust enough amounts of the mixture on the infected part of the nails.
• Repeat the application daily before wearing socks.

8. Lavender Oil with Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil not only helps in dealing with nail fungus but also keeps the skin around the nail healthy.

• Combine equal amounts of LO and rosemary oil.
• Using a cotton ball, apply the mixture on the infected nail.
• Leave it on to completely dry.
• Repeat the application 2 – 3 times a day.

Which Lavender Oil Should Be Used?

It is very important to use pure and 100% therapeutic lavender oil to treat nail fungus. This means to purchase good quality lavender oil that has not been diluted in any way.

Beware of the lavender fragranced oils as they provide no results. And some lavender oils are diluted with lesser grade oils and mineral oils which will have less to no effect in medicinal treatments.

Genuine and quality lavender oil may be a little bit pricey but for effective results it is worthy. You can find quality lavender essential oil in dedicated herbal or Ayurvedic stores. You can try online stores like Amazon or Wal-Mart as well but make sure it is of high quality before placing an order.

Tips and Precautions When Using Lavender Oil for Toenail Fungus:

• If you are allergic to lavender oil then avoid using it.
• Make sure to use only high quality lavender oil for maximum benefits.
• Make sure to repeat the process regularly until the nail fungus is cleared.
• Trim your nails regularly to prevent nail fungus infection.
• Shoes create a moist environment in which fungus thrives, so it is better to wear them only if necessary.
• Wear socks made of cotton, which helps the nails breathe.
• Dust some antifungal powder before wearing socks.
• Avoid walking barefoot in public places like swimming pools, mud areas, public toilets and gym.
• Make sure the tools used for manicure or pedicure are sanitized. If they are not properly sanitized them it can spread the fungal infection from one person to another.
• Don’t share footwear with anyone.

Did you find this article helpful? Are you going to try lavender oil for treating your nail fungus? Don’t forget to share your experience and suggestions in the comments section below.