10 Best Herbal Teas For Nail Fungus

Herbal teas can be a natural and gentle alternative for managing nail fungus, offering potential antifungal and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Certain herbs like tea tree oil, oregano, and calendula are commonly used in herbal infusions due to their antimicrobial properties. To prepare an herbal tea for nail fungus, steep a mixture of these herbs in hot water for several minutes, then let it cool before applying it to the affected nails. While herbal teas may help reduce symptoms, they are not a substitute for medical treatment and should be used in conjunction with professional care.

It is important to consult a healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy to ensure safety and effectiveness.

1. St. john's wort (Hypericum perforatum)

Hypericum perforatum, commonly known as St. John's Wort, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for its potential antifungal properties.

While it is well-known for its use in treating mild depression, recent studies suggest that its active compounds, such as hypericin and hyperforin, may help combat fungal infections, including nail fungus. Some proponents of natural remedies recommend using hypericum perforatum herbal tea as a topical treatment by soaking affected nails, believing it can reduce fungal growth and promote healing. However, it is important to note that scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for nail fungus is limited, and results may vary among individuals.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using hypericum perforatum, especially if you are on other medications or have existing health conditions.

2. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.

When brewed into a tea, it may help support the body's natural defenses against fungal infections, including nail fungus. The tea is believed to contain compounds that inhibit the growth of fungi, making it a natural alternative for those seeking non-toxic treatments. However, while some anecdotal evidence suggests it may be beneficial, scientific research on its effectiveness for nail fungus is limited.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before using stinging nettle tea as part of a treatment plan for nail fungus.

3. Polium germander (Teucrium polium)

Teucrium polium, also known as sweet germander, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

When brewed into a herbal tea, it may help support the body's natural defenses against nail fungus by inhibiting the growth of fungal organisms. While it is not a guaranteed cure, some studies suggest that its active compounds, such as flavonoids and essential oils, may contribute to reducing fungal infections. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it as a treatment, especially if the infection is severe or persistent.

Incorporating Teucrium polium tea into a holistic approach, along with proper hygiene and medical advice, may offer complementary benefits for managing nail fungus.

4. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a popular herb used in herbal teas for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

Rosemary tea contains compounds like rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, including those that cause nail infections. When consumed regularly, rosemary tea may help support the body's natural defenses against fungal infections by boosting immunity and reducing inflammation. While it is not a cure for nail fungus, it can be a complementary therapy when used alongside other treatments.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using rosemary tea as a treatment, especially for persistent or severe nail fungal infections.

5. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea purpurea, commonly known as purple coneflower, is often used in herbal teas for its potential immune-boosting properties.

While it is primarily recognized for its benefits in supporting the immune system, some people use echinacea tea as a natural remedy for nail fungus due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. However, there is limited scientific evidence directly linking echinacea to the treatment of fungal infections, and its effectiveness for nail fungus remains inconclusive. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before using echinacea or any herbal remedy, especially for persistent or severe fungal infections.

Combining echinacea with other antifungal treatments may offer a holistic approach, but it should not replace conventional medical care.

6. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Thymus vulgaris, commonly known as thyme, is a herb that has been traditionally used for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it a popular ingredient in herbal teas aimed at treating nail fungus.

The essential oils in thyme, particularly thymol, are known to inhibit the growth of fungi, including the common causes of nail infections such as Candida and Trichophyton. When consumed as a tea, thyme may support the body's natural defenses against fungal infections by boosting immune function and reducing inflammation. However, while some anecdotal evidence suggests thyme tea may help alleviate symptoms of nail fungus, it is not a substitute for professional medical treatment.

It is advisable to consult a healthcare provider before using thyme or any herbal remedy for persistent or severe nail fungal infections.

7. English lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)

Lavandula angustifolia, commonly known as English lavender, is often used in herbal teas for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

While it is not a cure for nail fungus, some studies suggest that lavender may help reduce fungal growth due to its essential oils, such as linalool and lavandulyl acetate. When consumed as a tea, lavender can support overall immune function, which may aid in the body's natural defense against fungal infections. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using lavender tea as a treatment for nail fungus, as it should not replace conventional medical therapies.

Combining lavender tea with other antifungal treatments and maintaining proper nail hygiene can contribute to a more effective approach in managing nail fungus.

8. Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)

Cnicus benedictus, commonly known as St. John's Wort, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to support the treatment of nail fungus due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compounds in this herb, such as hypericin and hyperforin, may help inhibit the growth of fungi that cause nail infections. While some studies suggest it may have antifungal effects, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy specifically for nail fungus. Herbal teas made from Cnicus benedictus are often used as a complementary therapy alongside conventional treatments.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it, as it may interact with certain medications.

9. Sanguisorba (Sanguisorba officinalis)

Sanguisorba officinalis, also known as common sanguisorba, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.

While it is not a primary treatment for nail fungus, some studies suggest that its compounds may help inhibit the growth of fungal organisms. Herbal teas made from sanguisorba officinalis can be used as a complementary therapy to support overall nail health and reduce fungal infections. However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it as a treatment, especially if the nail fungus is severe or persistent.

Combining sanguisorba officinalis with other antifungal herbs or conventional treatments may offer a more effective approach to managing nail fungus.

10. Ceylon cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

Cinnamomum zeylanicum, commonly known as cinnamon, has been explored for its potential benefits in treating nail fungus due to its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

The essential oils derived from cinnamon bark contain cinnamaldehyde, which has shown effectiveness against various fungal strains, including those responsible for onychomycosis. When used in herbal teas, cinnamon may help reduce fungal growth by inhibiting the spread of infection and promoting a healthier nail environment. However, it is important to note that while cinnamon tea may offer some supportive benefits, it should not replace conventional antifungal treatments prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Incorporating cinnamon into a holistic approach, along with proper hygiene and medical advice, may enhance the overall management of nail fungus.