Essential oils for nail fungus account for one of the few treatments for this unpleasant health issue. With a variety of oils to choose from, it can be hard to know which is best. This article covers the best oils to treat nail fungus.

What is Nail Fungus?

Nail fungus, also known as Onychomycosis, is a common fungal infection. Some early symptoms include yellow or white spots under the tip of fingernails or toenails. Without treatment, symptoms become more severe. Over time, nails lose their color, thicken and even break. Moreover, if it is not dealt with, nail fungus can spread to other areas. Accordingly, timely and effective treatment of this medical condition is imperative.

Treatments for Nail Fungus

Prescription, over-the-counter, and home remedy treatments exist for nail fungus. Terbinafine (Lamisil), a prescription oral antifungal, is a frequently used treatment for nail fungus. However, with serious side effects like jaundice, severe skin problems, dizziness, and an upset stomach, prescription medications are not the best treatment option for many people suffering from nail fungus.


There are many over-the-counter and home remedy alternatives for treating nail fungus. They range from topical ointments, plant extracts, vinegar, and even mouthwash. Of these treatment options that don’t require a doctor’s visit, essential oils for nail fungus are frequently the most effective.

The Best Oils for Treating Nail Fungus

There are many oils to treat nail fungus. While a variety of options exist, all essential oils must be diluted in a carrier oil before they make contact with the skin. Moreover, all oils should be applied topically, as opposed to by way of oral ingestion. When applied properly, treating nail fungus with oil is a safe option.

While they should all be applied in the same manner, some essential oils for nail fungus are better than others. Treating nail fungus with oil is sometimes accomplished through trial and error. To save you time, money, and frustration, we compiled a list of the best essential oils for nail fungus.

Clove Essential Oil

Clove essential oil, or Syzygium aromaticum, is one of the most effective and popular oils to treat nail fungus. As its name indicates, this oil comes from clove trees. The efficacy of clove essential oil was proven in a 2007 study, which demonstrated that clove essential oil contains antifungal properties that can destroy the fungus. In addition to being applied in combination with a carrier oil - such as olive, coconut, and jojoba oils – clove essential oil is also an ingredient in some creams and lotions.


Ozonized Oils

Ozonized oils include sunflower oil and olive oil that ozone gas is added to. This limited exposure to ozone gas has the ability to inactivate bacteria, fungi, and yeast. For this reason, ozonized oils are great oils to treat nail fungus. Treating nail fungus with oil of this type is so effective that one study demonstrated that ozonized sunflower oil outperformed prescription topical antifungals. For best results, ozonized oils should be applied to the affected area two times per day.

Oregano Oil

Oregano oil is a fantastic nail fungus treatment option since it contains thymol. Like ozonized oils, thymol has antibacterial and antifungal properties. For best results, mix oregano oil with tea tree oil. After fusing the two essential oils for nail fungus, apply them twice daily to the infected area with a cotton swab.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil, also known as melaleuca, is one of the best options for treating nail fungus with oil. Several studies illustrate the benefits of using tea tree oil for nail fungus. One study demonstrates tea tree oil’s ability to reduce the growth of the Trichophyton rubrum virus, which often causes nail fungus.


Like other oils to treat nail fungus, the effectiveness of tea tree oil is attributed to its antifungal and antiseptic properties. Use a cotton swab to apply a tea tree and coconut oil fusion to the area displaying symptoms. Allow a few minutes for the solution to be fully absorbed and dry. Repeating this process at least a few times per week should provide for a full recovery.

Bottom Line

Treating nail fungus with oil is a safe and effective alternative to prescription medications. While there is a wide array of essential oils for nail fungus, all of them should be mixed with a carrier oil before being applied to the infected area. Using oils to treat nail fungus at least several times per week should, in most cases, provide for a full treatment within a few months. Should there be any adverse effects while treating nail fungus with oil, contact your doctor immediately.