Tea tree oil, also called melaleuca, is an essential oil with antifungal and antiseptic abilities. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, some small-scale clinical studies showed that tea tree oil might be effective against toenail fungus. To use, paint the tea tree oil directly onto the affected nail twice daily with a cotton swab. Find therapeutic-grade tea tree oil on Amazon. 

Ozonized oils such as olive oil and sunflower oil are “injected” with ozone gas. According to a 2011 study, this type of ozone exposure in low concentrations for a short duration can then inactivate many organisms such as fungi, yeast, and bacteria. Another study found ozonized sunflower oil was more effective in treating toenail fungus than the prescription topical antifungal, ketoconazole (Xolegel). 

Home remedies may be more effective than prescription medications in treating mild-to-moderate toenail fungus. Although home remedies typically have fewer side effects, there’s little scientific evidence that they work. Many factors come into play when treating toenail fungus, such as nail penetrability, infection severity, and overall health. 

Home remedies may take longer to wipe out toenail fungus than prescription topical medications or oral systemic antifungals. You may not see results for several months. Once the infection is gone, keep your toenails dry, clean, and well-trimmed. 

See a doctor When to see a doctor In most cases, toenail fungus is considered a cosmetic problem. Still, it may cause serious complications for some people. If you have diabetes, toenail fungus may lead to foot ulcers or other foot problems. According to a 2012 study, chronic toenail fungus is a significant risk factor for bacterial cellulitis of the leg. If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system, you shouldn’t use home remedies for toenail fungus. Contact your doctor for the appropriate course of action. Check out: Is it nail psoriasis or a nail fungus? ». 

"We've heard from a few readers that this has gotten rid of fungus," Graedon says. (Cornmeal has long been used as a way to banish black-spot fungal disease from roses, so it must have some sort of antifungal activity.) Pour cornmeal into a shallow pan, mix it with water hot enough to dissolve it into a paste, let it cool, and then soak your feet in it for an hour a week. (Psst! Here are 10 things your feet say about your health.). 

Tea tree oil has been used for many years to combat skin conditions, especially fungal infections, says Graedon. Oregano oil contains thymol, which also has antifungal properties. Dab a few drops of oil on affected nails twice daily. 

Over-the-counter urea paste (20%), like Gormel Creme, can help dissolve the diseased portion of a nail, leaving the healthy part intact. Once it's dissolved, you can follow with an over-the-counter antifungal cream such as Miranel. Be sure to check with a dermatologist or podiatrist before starting this treatment; after you remove part or all of your nail, the area is more susceptible to infection. (If your fungus has gone past the point of using a natural remedy, check out these new medications on the market.). 

"We've heard from a few readers that this has gotten rid of fungus," Graedon says. (Cornmeal has long been used as a way to banish black-spot fungal disease from roses, so it must have some sort of antifungal activity.) Pour cornmeal into a shallow pan, mix it with water hot enough to dissolve it into a paste, let it cool, and then soak your feet in it for an hour a week. (Psst! Here are 10 things your feet say about your health.) Buy now: $13, amazon.com.

Reference

10 Home Remedies for Toenail Fungus. (2018). Retrieved on February 27, 2018, from https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-for-toenail-fungus.

Natural Home Remedies For Nail Fungus | Prevention. (2018). Retrieved on February 27, 2018, from https://www.prevention.com/health/6-natural-ways-to-deal-with-nail-fungus.