Last updated: Apr 26, 2024
10 best herbal teas for nail fungus
Here are three herbal teas that effectively treat nail fungus: green tea, chamomile tea, and cinnamon tea.
Green tea contains high levels of epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a potent antifungal agent. Regular consumption of chamomile tea promotes nail health due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon tea, made from cinnamon sticks or powder, has strong antifungal and antimicrobial properties, making it an excellent choice for treating nail fungus.
Enjoy these herbal teas as part of your daily routine to strengthen your nails and inhibit fungal growth.
1. Green Tea
Green tea contains powerful antifungal agents, specifically catechins, which directly target and destroy the fungal cells causing nail fungus.
These catechins, particularly EGCG, disrupt the membrane of fungal cells, leading to their death and preventing further infection. Green tea's anti-inflammatory properties help alleviate irritation and inflammation caused by nail fungus infections. As a rich source of antioxidants, green tea aids in boosting the immune system and improving overall health, supporting the body's natural defense mechanisms against fungal infections.
Regular consumption of green tea, either internally or topically, complements medical treatments and enhances the recovery process from nail fungus.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in green tea tea that help with nail fungus.
- Leaves: Contain high levels of catechins, which have antifungal properties beneficial for treating nail fungus.
- Buds: Rich in polyphenols, known for their potent antimicrobial effects, aiding in the elimination of nail fungus.
- Stems: Provide structural support and contain bioactive compounds that contribute to the overall effectiveness of medicinal tea for nail fungus treatment.
- Flowers: Contain antioxidants and essential oils that can help inhibit the growth of fungi causing nail infections.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in green tea tea that aid with nail fungus.
- Catechins: These are antioxidants that possess antimicrobial properties, helping to combat nail fungus.
- Epigallocatechin Gallate: This catechin inhibits the growth of fungi causing nail infections.
- Epicatechin Gallate: ECG has antifungal effects, disrupting the cell membrane of nail fungus.
- Epicatechin: EC exhibits antimicrobial properties that help control nail fungus.
- Gallic Acid: This polyphenol has antifungal properties, aiding in the treatment of nail fungus.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic green tea tea for nail fungus.
- Boil 2 cups of water and let four green tea bags steep for 10 minutes.
- Remove tea bags and let the liquid cool until it reaches a comfortable temperature.
- Add 1/2 cup of vinegar and 1/2 cup of Epsom salt, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Soak affected nails in the solution for 15 minutes, twice a day.
- Thoroughly dry nails after each soak to prevent further fungal growth.
2. Chamomile
Chamomile tea contains powerful antifungal and antimicrobial properties, scientifically proven to combat various fungal infections.
The key active compounds in chamomile, such as bisabolol, suppress fungal growth and promote healing. By drinking chamomile tea or using chamomile extract topically, the ingredients absorb into the bloodstream and reach the nails, targeting the fungal infection directly. Regular consumption or application of chamomile ensures a consistent supply of these active compounds, inhibiting further fungal growth and fostering healthier nails.
Ultimately, chamomile tea's fungicidal properties make it an effective natural remedy for nail fungus, providing a gentle and soothing solution for those seeking an alternative to conventional treatments.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with nail fungus.
- Flowers: Rich in antifungal compounds, such as chamazulene and alpha-bisabolol.
- Leaves: Contain terpenoids and flavonoids with antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Seeds: Packed with essential oils that show antifungal and antioxidant qualities.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with nail fungus.
- Alpha-Bisabolol: Possesses potent antifungal properties that directly combat nail fungus.
- Apigenin: Demonstrates antimicrobial abilities that inhibit the growth of nail fungus.
- Chamazulene: Provides strong anti-inflammatory effects, helping to alleviate discomfort caused by nail fungus.
- Matricin: Converts to Chamazulene, enhancing its anti-inflammatory properties, easing nail fungus-related pain.
- Flavonoids: Offer antioxidant and antimicrobial benefits, contributing to the overall fungus-fighting capabilities of chamomile tea.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for nail fungus.
- Boil 1 cup of water in a saucepan for 3-5 minutes.
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to the boiling water.
- Steep the chamomile flowers in the hot water for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the chamomile tea into a cup, discarding the spent flowers.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a warm temperature before soaking nails for 15-20 minutes.
3. Peppermint
Peppermint tea contains menthol, a natural compound with fungicidal properties.
This substance inhibits the growth of fungi causing nail fungus, promoting healthy nail development. Furthermore, menthol boasts anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, alleviating discomfort and irritation associated with infected nails. By consuming peppermint tea regularly, the body receives a consistent supply of fungus-fighting menthol, leading to improved nail health.
Additionally, applying peppermint tea bags directly to the affected nails provides localized treatment, enhancing the healing process.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in peppermint tea that help with nail fungus.
- Leaves: Contain menthol, a compound with antifungal properties that help alleviate nail fungus.
- Flowers: Rich in essential oils, they help reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections.
- Buds: High in antioxidants, they aid in strengthening the immune system, allowing it to better fight off fungal infections.
- Stems: Contain rosmarinic acid, which exhibits antifungal activity, helping treat nail fungus.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint tea that aid with nail fungus.
- Menthol: Possesses fungicidal properties that directly inhibit the growth of fungal nail infections.
- Limonene: Boasts antifungal abilities that aid in the eradication of nail fungus.
- Methyl salicylate: Provides analgesic and antipruritic effects, alleviating discomfort caused by nail fungus.
- Rosmarinic acid: Offers antimicrobial benefits that assist in controlling and suppressing nail fungus.
- Gallic acid: Displays antifungal and antioxidant characteristics, helping to protect nails from fungal infections.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint tea for nail fungus.
- Boil 1 cup of water, then steep 1 tablespoon of dried peppermint leaves for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea, discarding the leaves, and let it cool to a comfortable temperature.
- Add 1-2 drops of pure peppermint essential oil to the tea.
- Soak nails in the tea for 15-20 minutes, twice a day.
- Store leftover tea in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, reheating before each use.
4. Oregano
Oregano tea provides antifungal properties that target and destroy nail fungus due to its thymol and carvacrol content.
These compounds inhibit fungal growth and restore nail health. Moreover, oregano tea's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system, promoting faster nail recovery. Regular consumption of oregano tea creates an unfavorable environment for fungal growth, allowing new, healthy nails to grow.
Additionally, this tea's antiseptic qualities help prevent secondary infections, ensuring complete nail fungus treatment.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in oregano tea that help with nail fungus.
- Leaves: Contain antifungal compounds that help combat nail fungus.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants that boost the immune system and help fight fungal infections.
- Stems: Contain essential oils with antifungal properties that aid in treating nail fungus.
- Seeds: Packed with nutrients that support overall health and indirectly contribute to fighting nail fungus.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in oregano tea that aid with nail fungus.
- Thymol: A potent antifungal agent that inhibits the growth of nail fungus.
- Carvacrol: A phenol with antifungal properties that helps to eliminate nail fungus.
- Terpinene: A compound with antiseptic qualities, it aids in preventing the spread of nail fungus.
- Cymene: A component with antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to reduce nail fungus and associated inflammation.
- Ocimene: A terpene that has antifungal properties, contributing to the prevention and treatment of nail fungus.
- Linalool: A compound with antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to alleviate symptoms of nail fungus and reduce inflammation.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oregano tea for nail fungus.
- Boil 1 cup of water and add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano leaves, letting it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let the tea steep for an additional 5 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove oregano leaves.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a comfortable temperature.
- Soak your nails in the oregano tea for 15-20 minutes, then rinse and dry thoroughly.
5. Basil
Basil tea contains antifungal properties due to its high concentration of antioxidants and essential oils such as eugenol and citronellol.
These components inhibit the growth of fungi causing nail infections, making basil tea an effective natural remedy. By drinking basil tea regularly, its antifungal properties get absorbed into the bloodstream, targeting fungal spores within the body. Moreover, basil tea's antimicrobial properties help build a robust immune system that fights off fungal infections.
Topical application of basil tea on affected nails also aids in combating fungus, further supporting its overall efficacy in treating nail fungus.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in basil tea that help with nail fungus.
- Leaves: Contain compounds that have antifungal properties, helping to treat nail fungus.
- Flowers: Rich in antioxidants that boost the immune system, allowing the body to fight off fungal infections.
- Seeds: Contain essential oils with antifungal properties that help eliminate nail fungus.
- Stems: Have antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, aiding in treating nail fungus and reducing inflammation.
- Bark: Has tannins with antifungal properties that help in controlling the growth of nail fungus.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in basil tea that aid with nail fungus.
- Eugenol: This compound has antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungi causing nail fungus.
- Linalool: This medicinal constituent has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help to combat nail fungus.
- Methyl chavicol: This compound has antifungal and antimicrobial properties that aid in treating nail fungus.
- Rosmarinic acid: This medicinal constituent exhibits antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms of nail fungus.
- Orientin: This compound has antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungi causing nail fungus.
- Vicenin-2: This medicinal constituent exhibits antifungal properties that treat and prevent the growth of nail fungus.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic basil tea for nail fungus.
- Chop 2 tablespoons of fresh basil leaves, then let them steep in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove the basil leaves, preserving the liquid.
- Add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of honey to the basil tea, stirring until the honey dissolves.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a warm temperature, but not hot enough to cause discomfort to the affected nail.
- Soak the affected nail in the basil tea for 15-20 minutes, then rinse with clean water and gently pat dry.
6. Lavender
Lavender tea contains compounds like linalool and eucalyptol, known for their antifungal properties.
These compounds inhibit the growth of fungi causing nail infections, such as dermatophytes. By directly applying lavender tea to the infected nails, the antifungal agents penetrate the nail bed, eliminating the fungus. Regular consumption of lavender tea boosts one's immune system, enhancing the body's natural ability to fight and prevent fungal infections.
Furthermore, lavender tea's anti-inflammatory properties alleviate irritation and pain caused by nail fungus.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in lavender tea that help with nail fungus.
- Flowers: Contain antifungal compounds that can help treat nail fungus.
- Leaves: Rich in antifungal properties, making them effective in reducing nail fungal infections.
- Buds: High in antioxidants, known to have antifungal effects, supporting healthy nail growth.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in lavender tea that aid with nail fungus.
- Eucalyptol: Possesses antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of nail fungus.
- Linalool: Exhibits antimicrobial properties that help eradicate nail fungus.
- Camphor: Alleviates inflammation caused by nail fungus and assists in its elimination.
- Alpha-terpineol: Contributes to lavender tea's antifungal activity, effective against nail fungus.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lavender tea for nail fungus.
- Infuse 1 tablespoon of dried lavender flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Strain the lavender tea, discarding the solid components.
- Allow the tea to cool to a comfortable temperature.
- Soak your nails in the lavender tea for 15-20 minutes.
- Rinse your nails with clean water and pat dry. Repeat this process 2-3 times a day.
7. Ginger
Ginger tea contains antifungal compounds, such as gingerols and shaogals, that directly attack nail fungus.
These compounds inhibit the growth and spread of fungal infections by disrupting the cell membranes of fungi. Moreover, ginger tea boosts the immune system, empowering the body to fight off infections, including nail fungus. The warming effect of ginger tea also improves circulation, facilitating the delivery of nutrients and immune cells to affected nails.
Lastly, drinking ginger tea regularly helps maintain a healthy environment within the body, making it less conducive for nail fungus to thrive.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginger tea that help with nail fungus.
- Rhizomes: Ginger tea made from rhizomes has antifungal properties that can inhibit the growth of nail fungus.
- Leaves: The leaves of the ginger plant contain active compounds that possess antifungal properties, making them effective for treating nail fungus.
- Flowers: Ginger flowers contain powerful antifungal agents that can help eliminate nail fungus and promote healthy nail growth.
- Seeds: Ginger seeds are rich in antioxidants and antifungal compounds, making them a potent natural remedy for treating nail fungus.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with nail fungus.
- Gingerol: A potent antifungal compound that inhibits the growth of fungi causing nail infections.
- Paradol: A phenolic compound with antifungal properties that helps in managing nail fungus.
- Shogaol: An active constituent in ginger that exhibits antifungal activities against dermatophytes causing nail infections.
- Zingerone: A phenolic aldehyde that shows antifungal properties, contributing to the prevention and treatment of nail fungus.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for nail fungus.
- Peel and slice 1/4 cup of fresh ginger, then bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan and add the ginger.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes to extract the ginger's medicinal properties.
- Strain the ginger tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a teapot or mug, and discard the ginger pieces.
- Optionally, sweeten the tea with 1 teaspoon of honey to improve the taste (heating honey reduces its therapeutic benefits).
- Drink the warm ginger tea up to three times a day, after meals, for several weeks to help treat nail fungus.
8. Clove
Clove tea holds fungicidal properties, contributing to its effectiveness in treating nail fungus.
The compound eugenol, abundant in cloves, exhibits strong antifungal attributes that counteract nail fungus. By ingesting clove tea, the active ingredients enter the bloodstream, targeting fungal infections internally. Simultaneously, topical application of cooled clove tea on affected nails enhances its local antifungal impact.
As a result, clove tea's multifaceted approach, both internal and external, helps eradicate nail fungus.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in clove tea that help with nail fungus.
- Buds: Contain high levels of eugenol, a potent antifungal compound, that helps treat nail fungus.
- Flowers: Contain antifungal and antioxidant properties which aid in treating and preventing nail fungus infections.
- Leaves: Rich in phenolic acids, exhibiting antifungal activity to inhibit the growth of nail fungus.
- Stems: Packed with essential oils, they have antifungal components beneficial for treating nail fungus.
- Bark: A natural antifungal and anti-inflammatory agent, it alleviates symptoms of nail fungal infections.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in clove tea that aid with nail fungus.
- Eugenol: A phenolic compound with antifungal properties that inhibits the growth of nail fungus.
- Crategolic Acid: A phenolic acid that has been shown to have antifungal effects against various fungi causing nail infections.
- Gallic Acid: A phenolic acid that exhibits antifungal activity, effective against dermatophytes responsible for nail fungus.
- Oleanolic Acid: A triterpene that shows antifungal properties helpful in managing onychomycosis or nail fungus.
- Ursolic Acid: A pentacyclic triterpene carboxylic acid with antifungal activity, contributing to the efficacy of clove tea against nail fungus.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic clove tea for nail fungus.
- Boil 1 cup of water, then add 3-5 crushed cloves, letting it simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the clove-infused water to remove clove particles.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a warm temperature, but not hot enough to burn the skin.
- Soak your nails in the clove tea for 15-20 minutes, ensuring full coverage of the affected area.
- Rinse your nails with clean water and gently pat them dry. Repeat this process 1-2 times daily.
9. Cinnamon
Cinnamon tea assists with nail fungus due to its antifungal properties, which directly combat the fungal infection.
The compound cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon prevents the growth and spread of fungi. Furthermore, cinnamon's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help to soothe irritation and support overall nail health. Regular consumption of cinnamon tea creates an unfavorable environment for fungal growth, promoting nail recovery.
Additionally, cinnamon's immune-boosting abilities strengthen the body's defense against fungal infections.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in cinnamon tea that help with nail fungus.
- Leaves: Contain antifungal compounds that help treat nail fungus.
- Bark: Has antimicrobial properties that aid in managing nail fungus.
- Seeds: Rich in antioxidants that promote healthy nail growth and protect against fungal infections.
- Rhyzomes: Contain potent active ingredients effective in treating and preventing nail fungus.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in cinnamon tea that aid with nail fungus.
- Eugenol: A compound with antifungal properties that inhibits the growth of fungi responsible for nail fungus.
- Cinnamaldehyde: A medicinal component that possesses antifungal activities, helping to combat nail fungus.
- Coumarin: A constituent with antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects, aiding in the treatment of nail fungus.
- Gallic acid: A phenolic compound that exhibits antifungal properties, contributing to the management of nail fungus.
- Cinnamic acid: A medicinal component that has antifungal effects, beneficial for treating nail fungus.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cinnamon tea for nail fungus.
- Boil 1 cup of water and add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon sticks, letting it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove from heat, then add 1 teaspoon of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice, stirring until well combined.
- Mix in 1/4 teaspoon of powdered cayenne pepper and 1/2 teaspoon of powdered turmeric.
- Strain the tea to remove cinnamon sticks and other solids.
- Sip the warm tea slowly, allowing each portion to soak on your nails for 30 minutes before swallowing.
10. Turmeric
Turmeric tea provides antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, containing curcumin, which directly combats nail fungus.
This compound inhibits the growth of fungal cells, preventing further infection. Moreover, curcumin's antioxidant qualities help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort around the affected area. By drinking turmeric tea regularly, the body absorbs curcumin, enabling it to target and eliminate nail fungus systemically.
Consequently, turmeric tea offers an alternative, natural remedy to treat nail fungus effectively.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in turmeric tea that help with nail fungus.
- Rhizomes: Contain curcumin, a potent antifungal compound effective against nail fungus.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and possess antifungal properties, helping to combat nail fungus.
- Flowers: Packed with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory compounds, useful for treating nail fungus and related symptoms.
- Seeds: Contain essential oils with fungicidal properties, helpful for managing nail fungal infections.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in turmeric tea that aid with nail fungus.
- Curcumin: Possesses potent antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungi causing nail infections.
- Demethoxycurcumin: A compound exhibiting antifungal effects, helping to clear up nail fungus.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin: Displays antifungal activities, aiding in the elimination of nail fungus.
- Turmerone: Contributes to turmeric's antifungal properties, beneficial for treating nail fungus.
- Ar-turmerone: Exhibits antifungal properties making it effective in managing nail fungus.
- α-Turmerone: Possesses antifungal qualities, playing a role in treating and preventing nail fungus.
- β-Turmerone: Demonstrates antifungal properties, essential for turmeric tea's effectiveness against nail fungus.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric tea for nail fungus.
- Peel and grate 1 tablespoon of fresh turmeric root into a cup.
- Add 1 cup of boiling water to the cup and let it steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove turmeric pieces, then stir in 1 teaspoon of honey and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Mix thoroughly until the honey dissolves.
- Drink the tea while warm, once a day, for at least a month.