Want to ditch conventional foot fungal treatments for natural remedies? This article about Essential Oils for Foot Fungus is only for you!
Foot fungus is a general term for superficial fungal infections of the foot. This condition affects skin, hair, and toenails. There are two kinds of foot fungal infections: Athlete’s foot (tinea pedis) and Onychomycosis (toenail fungus). Both conditions are contagious and can become painful with time. Keep reading this list of Essential Oils for Foot Fungus and say goodbye to the fungal infection.
Read Coconut Oil for Foot Fungus here
Symptoms of Foot Fungus
There are two types of foot fungus, i.e., tinea pedis and toenail fungus. Both have different signs and symptoms that are described below.
Toenail Fungus
- Thickened and brittle toenails
- Smelly toenails
- Flaky skin around the nails
- Discolored nail bed and skin nearby the nails
Tinea Pedis
- Painful blisters or ulcers on the foot
- Discolored and brittle toenails
- Itchy and scaly red rash between the toes
- Dry skin on the foot
- Burning and stinging sensation on the bottom of the foot
Essential Oils for Foot Fungus
Besides their pleasant aroma, essential oils are a popular remedy for foot fungus because of their anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties. They soothe skin, tackle infection, and restore feet’ healthy state. Try the below essential oils that work against both tinea pedis and onychomycosis.
Note- Before using these essential oils, wash your toenails and feet with gentle soap and dry with a soft towel.
1. Eucalyptus Essential Oil
Eucalyptus oil is extracted from the oval-shaped leaves of the eucalyptus tree. According to this study, eucalyptus oil is an outstanding and cheaper option to control the symptoms of onychomycosis.
2. Tea Tree Oil
As per this reputed source, tea tree oil gives complete relief from onychomycosis without any side effects. All the credit goes to tea tree essential oil’s antifungal components.
3. Lemongrass Essential Oil
Popular for its strong-citrusy fragrance, the lemongrass essential oil is an ideal home remedy to treat both types of foot fungus. It has anti-fungal qualities that eliminate infection-inducing C. Albicans and A. niger.
4. Oregano Essential Oil
According to this research, the anti-fungal properties of oregano essential oil can halt the growth of infection-causing pathogen fungi, thereby eliminating tinea pedis and onychomycosis.
5. Clove Essential Oil
Made from the dried flower buds of clove, this essential oil is a rich source of antifungal contents that eradicates the fungus-causing ‘Dermatophytic Fungi.’ This remedy works best for both Athlete’s foot and toenail fungus.
6. Sweet Orange Essential Oil
Say goodbye to the hideous and painful athlete’s foot using sweet orange essential oil. This remedy works because of its strong fungicidal action against candida and aspergillus fungi species.
7. Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender oil carries potent, anti-fungal properties that eliminate tinea pedis by preventing the growth of dermatophytes fungi species. It’s one of the best essential oils for foot fungus.
8. Pine Essential Oil
A 2007 study proves that pine essential oil is the best alternative to traditional anti-fungal medications. This essential oil stops the development of dermatophytes fungus responsible for foot fungal infection.
9. Thyme Essential Oil
Thanks to its thymol and carvacrol components, thyme essential oil eliminates the root cause of toenail fungus and athlete’s foot, i.e., dermatophytes. Furthermore, it repels the pesky houseflies as well.
10. Cinnamon Essential Oil
Being a potent anti-microbial agent, the cinnamon essential oil can help you get rid of foot fungus. Using it topically not only reduces foot fungus but offers different health and beauty advantages too.
How to Apply
Stir 3-5 drops of any of the above essential oils and 1-2 tsp of coconut oil in a bowl. Next, apply this solution to the fungi-affected feet or toenails with a cotton ball before going to bed. Repeat this remedy regularly for up to 1-2 months to notice positive results.
Important Precautions to Consider
- Make sure to dilute the essential oil with any carrier oil to avoid skin problems.
- Store the essential oil far away from the reach of kids and pets.
- If you have cuts, open wounds, or sensitive skin, avoid the above essential oils.
- Wear hand gloves while treating foot fungus, as it can transmit to other body parts, such as the hands and groin.
How to Prevent Foot Fungal Infections?
After getting rid of foot fungus, make sure to follow the below tips to prevent their re-occurrence.
- Regularly washing your feet with soap and water can keep them clean and prevent the growth of fungi. Be sure to dry them thoroughly afterward.
- Use shoes made up of breathable substances, and avoid using dirty pair of footwear.
- Always clean cotton socks, and don’t share them with anyone.
- Never give your shoes and other footwear to anybody.
- After doing any activity that makes your feet damp, dry them promptly.
- Use sanitized nail clippers and expect the same from salon staff.
- If you’re prone to foot fungus, avoid visiting wet public places or at least wear shower sandals.
- Fungi love moist environments. After swimming, showering, or sweating, dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.
Learn How to Get Rid of Toenail Fungus With Bleach here