By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Ingrown Toenail
Herbal creams for ingrown toenail are topical treatments containing natural ingredients that help alleviate the symptoms of ingrown toenails.
These creams typically contain antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, such as tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile, which reduce pain, swelling, and infection. Examples of effective herbal creams include those containing neem oil and lavender oil.
By using these creams, individuals can experience relief from ingrown toenail pain, reducing discomfort and promoting healthy toenail growth, ultimately improving their overall quality of life.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for ingrown toenail, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Calendula officinalis
- 2. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 3. Aloe vera
- 4. Echinacea purpurea
- 5. Lavandula angustifolia
- 6. Hypericum perforatum
- 7. Arnica montana
- 8. Hamamelis virginiana
- 9. Ginkgo biloba
- 10. Urtica dioica
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for ingrown toenail?
- What ailments similar to ingrown toenail are treated with herbal creams?
1. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with ingrown toenail because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The cream's ability to reduce swelling and promote healing can help alleviate the discomfort and pain associated with ingrown toenails. Additionally, its antiseptic properties can help prevent infection, promoting a healthy environment for the nail to grow out.
This can lead to faster recovery and reduced risk of complications, making Calendula officinalis creams a useful natural remedy for ingrown toenail treatment.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with ingrown toenail.
- Triterpene saponins: These compounds help reduce inflammation and prevent infection, which can exacerbate ingrown toenails by promoting a healthy environment for healing.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and promote wound healing by increasing collagen synthesis, which can aid in the resolution of ingrown toenail lesions.
- Nascent ions and anti-microbial saponins: These compounds help prevent bacterial and fungal growth, which can contribute to the development and persistence of ingrown toenails by reducing the risk of secondary infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for ingrown toenail.
- Flowers: They contain anti-inflammatory and antiseptic compounds, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent infection in ingrown toenails.
- Leaves: They contain similar compounds to flowers, providing a soothing and antimicrobial effect to aid in healing and preventing ingrown toenails.
- Seeds: They are rich in triterpene saponins, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help to soothe and protect the affected area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for ingrown toenail.
- Harvest 1/4 cup of dried calendula flowers at peak bloom to ensure potency and effectiveness.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of beeswax with 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler at 160°f for 10 minutes.
- Combine 2 tablespoons of shea butter with 2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil in a double boiler at 160°f for 10 minutes.
- Infuse 2 cups of distilled water with 1/4 cup of dried calendula flowers for 2 hours to create a strong infusion.
- Blend the infused water with the beeswax mixture and shea butter mixture in a 1:1 ratio to create a smooth and consistent cream.
2. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with ingrown toenail because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The tea tree oil present in these creams helps to reduce swelling and redness associated with ingrown toenails. Its antibacterial properties also prevent the development of infections that can occur due to ingrown toenails. Additionally, tea tree oil promotes healthy skin and nail growth, which can help to alleviate the condition.
Regular application of these creams can lead to faster recovery and prevention of future occurrences.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with ingrown toenail.
- Cineole: This terpene helps reduce inflammation and pain associated with ingrown toenails, promoting a healthy environment for healing.
- Linalool: This terpene has antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which aid in preventing infection and promoting a clean environment for the affected area to heal.
- Caryophyllene: This sesquiterpene has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce pain and inflammation, promoting a healthy environment for the ingrown toenail to heal.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for ingrown toenail.
- Leaves: Used due to their high tea tree oil content, which has antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe and treat ingrown toenail.
- Stems: Utilized for the same reasons as the leaves, as they also contain tea tree oil, which aids in reducing inflammation and preventing infection.
- Barks: Employed for their rich content of cineole, which is a key component of tea tree oil, providing antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to promote healing and prevent further irritation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for ingrown toenail.
- Weigh and combine 200g of distilled water and 100g of beeswax in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture gently over low heat for 10-15 minutes or until the beeswax melts completely.
- Add 50g of melaleuca alternifolia essential oil to the mixture and stir well for about 2 minutes.
- Remove the double boiler from the heat and add 100g of sweet almond oil, stirring constantly for 5 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into sterile glass jars and allow it to cool and set for about 30 minutes.
3. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with ingrown toenail because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The gel extracted from the aloe plant contains compounds like aloe-emodin and aloin, which help to reduce swelling and pain associated with ingrown toenails. The cream's moisturizing properties also help to soften and hydrate the skin around the toenail, promoting healthy skin growth and reducing the likelihood of further irritation.
This natural remedy promotes faster healing and relief from discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with ingrown toenail.
- Glucomannans: These polysaccharides help reduce inflammation and swelling associated with ingrown toenails, promoting a healthy environment for healing.
- Phenolic acids: These antioxidants have antimicrobial properties, reducing the risk of infection and promoting a clean environment around the ingrown toenail.
- Aloe-emodin: This anthraquinone compound has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, which help reduce pain and discomfort caused by ingrown toenails, as well as preventing further irritation and infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for ingrown toenail.
- Leaves: Aloe vera leaves contain a high amount of aloe-emodin, which helps to reduce inflammation and fight off infections associated with ingrown toenails.
- Gel from leaves: The gel from Aloe vera leaves contains soothing and moisturizing properties that help to reduce pain and inflammation, making it an ideal ingredient for creams to treat ingrown toenails.
- Aloe vera extract from leaves: The extract from Aloe vera leaves contains aloe vera's active compounds, including vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, which help to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection in ingrown toenails.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for ingrown toenail.
- Harvest aloe vera leaves from mature plants and cut them into small pieces to extract gel.
- Blend the aloe vera pieces in a food processor to break down the pulp and extract gel.
- Strain the blended aloe vera mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh to remove excess pulp.
- Mix the strained aloe vera gel with beeswax and coconut oil to create a smooth and creamy texture.
- Pour the aloe vera mixture into small jars and allow it to cool and set before use.
4. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with ingrown toenail because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream reduces swelling and pain associated with ingrown toenails. Its antimicrobial properties help prevent infection, which can be a common complication of ingrown toenails. Additionally, Echinacea purpurea's ability to promote wound healing and tissue repair aids in the recovery process, making it an effective remedy for soothing and treating ingrown toenails.
This natural remedy provides a safe and effective solution for ingrown toenail sufferers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with ingrown toenail.
- Icariin: Icariin, a flavonoid glycoside, has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling and pain associated with ingrown toenails.
- Alkylphenols: Alkylphenols in Echinacea purpurea have antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent bacterial or fungal infections that may exacerbate ingrown toenail conditions.
- Cichoric acid: Cichoric acid, a caffeic acid derivative, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing, potentially alleviating ingrown toenail symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for ingrown toenail.
- Roots: They are rich in phenolic acids, flavonoids, and alkaloids, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help soothe and treat ingrown toenails.
- Leaves: They contain compounds like rosmarinic acid and chicoric acid, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activities that can aid in reducing inflammation and preventing infection.
- Flowers: They are a rich source of flavonoids and alkylamides, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help to reduce pain and swelling associated with ingrown toenails.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for ingrown toenail.
- Harvest 20 grams of echinacea purpurea root and 10 grams of echinacea purpurea flower at dawn during the blooming season.
- Dry the harvested echinacea purpurea root and flower in a dehydrator at 50 degrees celsius for 24 hours.
- Combine 20 grams of dried echinacea purpurea root and 10 grams of dried echinacea purpurea flower with 100 grams of coconut oil in a double boiler.
- Steep the mixture in a double boiler at 60 degrees celsius for 6 hours to extract the herbal properties.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and whip 50 grams of beeswax with the extracted herbal oil to create a thick cream.
5. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with ingrown toenail because of its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The soothing and calming effects of lavender cream can reduce swelling and pain associated with ingrown toenails. The cream's ability to promote wound healing and reduce bacterial growth can also help prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for the nail to grow properly.
Additionally, the cream's moisturizing properties can help soften and smooth the skin around the nail, making it easier to prevent ingrown toenails from occurring in the first place.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with ingrown toenail.
- Linalool: Linalool, a terpene found in Lavandula angustifolia, may help with ingrown toenails by reducing inflammation and promoting wound healing, which can aid in the recovery of affected areas.
- Linalyl acetate: Linalyl acetate, another terpene in Lavandula angustifolia, may contribute to the prevention of ingrown toenails by reducing bacterial growth and preventing infection, which can exacerbate the condition.
- Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic compound found in Lavandula angustifolia, may help alleviate symptoms of ingrown toenails by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting a healthy environment for the skin and nails to recover.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for ingrown toenail.
- Leaves: The leaves are used due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce pain and prevent infection.
- Flowers: The flowers are used for their soothing and calming effects, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Stems: The stems are used due to their antimicrobial properties, which help to prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for ingrown toenail.
- Infuse 100g of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in 1l of carrier oil at 40°c for 2 hours.
- Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass container.
- Weigh 20g of beeswax and 10g of shea butter and melt them in a double boiler.
- Gradually add 20g of the infused oil to the melted wax and butter mixture and stir until combined.
- Pour the cream mixture into a clean glass jar and allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature.
6. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, creams helps with ingrown toenail because it has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that reduce swelling and prevent infection.
The cream's ability to promote wound healing and prevent further irritation helps to alleviate discomfort associated with ingrown toenails. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties help to prevent bacterial growth, reducing the risk of infection and promoting a healthy environment for the nail to grow out.
This can help to prevent further ingrown toenail issues.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum creams that help with ingrown toenail.
- Hyperforin: It has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce swelling and pain associated with ingrown toenails, allowing for a faster recovery.
- Naphthodianthrone: It exhibits antimicrobial activity that helps prevent infections and promotes a healthy environment for the nail to grow, reducing the likelihood of ingrown toenails.
- Flavonoids: They have antioxidant properties that help reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair, which can aid in the healing process of ingrown toenails.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make creams for ingrown toenail.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties to help soothe and treat the affected area.
- Flowers: Used for their antiseptic and antifungal properties to help prevent infection and promote healing.
- Stems: Used for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties to help reduce swelling and fight off infection.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for ingrown toenail.
- Harvest fresh hypericum perforatum flowers in late summer when they are in full bloom and dry them immediately.
- Combine 50g of dried hypericum perforatum flowers with 500ml of carrier oil in a clean glass jar.
- Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks to allow for infusion and maceration.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the plant material and obtain the infused oil.
- Mix the infused oil with beeswax and other ingredients like shea butter and essential oil to create a smooth cream.
7. Arnica montana
Arnica montana, also known as mountain arnica, creams helps with ingrown toenail because of its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties.
The cream reduces swelling and pain associated with ingrown toenails, allowing for easier treatment and prevention of further irritation. Arnica's antiseptic properties also help to prevent infection, promoting a faster recovery.
By applying the cream to the affected area, individuals can alleviate discomfort and encourage the healing process, making it easier to manage and treat ingrown toenails.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Arnica montana creams that help with ingrown toenail.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent infection associated with ingrown toenails.
- Phenolic acids: The presence of phenolic acids in Arnica montana creams may help reduce the severity of ingrown toenail symptoms by preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi that can cause infection.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Arnica montana creams have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce pain and swelling associated with ingrown toenails, promoting a faster recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of mountain arnica used to make creams for ingrown toenail.
- Flowers: The flowers of Arnica montana are commonly used due to their high concentration of sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Arnica montana are used for their ability to reduce inflammation and promote healing, making them a popular choice for creams and ointments.
- (optional) roots: The roots of Arnica montana contain sesquiterpene lactones, which have anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them a potential alternative to the flowers or leaves.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic mountain arnica for ingrown toenail.
- Infuse 1 cup of dried arnica montana flowers in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil and discard the solids then transfer the oil to a clean glass container.
- Melt 1/2 cup of beeswax in a double boiler and mix it with 1/4 cup of shea butter.
- Combine the infused oil with the melted beeswax mixture and stir until it reaches a smooth consistency.
- Pour the mixture into a tin or jar and let it cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes.
8. Hamamelis virginiana
Hamamelis virginiana, also known as American witch hazel, creams helps with ingrown toenail because of its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
It reduces swelling and redness, making it easier to manage the discomfort associated with ingrown toenails. The cream's antiseptic properties also prevent infection by reducing bacterial growth, promoting a healthy environment for the nail to grow out.
By reducing inflammation and promoting a clean environment, Hamamelis virginiana creams can help alleviate the symptoms of ingrown toenails and promote faster healing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana creams that help with ingrown toenail.
- Tannins: Help to reduce inflammation and promote astringent effects on the skin, which can help to prevent further irritation and infection of the ingrown toenail.
- Hamamelitannin: Acts as an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent, which can help to reduce swelling, pain, and the risk of infection associated with ingrown toenails.
- Phenolic acids: Have antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce oxidative stress and promote wound healing, ultimately reducing the risk of complications associated with ingrown toenails.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make creams for ingrown toenail.
- Barks: Used due to its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping to soothe and protect the affected area.
- Leaves: Used for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which help reduce pain and prevent infection.
- Roots: Used for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for ingrown toenail.
- Harvest 2 tablespoons of hamamelis virginiana leaves and flowers on a dry morning when the dew has evaporated.
- Steep 2 tablespoons of the harvested hamamelis virginiana in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes.
- Strain the infused liquid through a cheesecloth into a bowl to remove solids.
- Mix 1/4 teaspoon of beeswax and 1/4 teaspoon of candelilla wax with the cooled infused liquid.
- Whip the mixture for 10 minutes until it thickens and forms a smooth, creamy texture.
9. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba, also known as maidenhair tree, creams helps with ingrown toenail because of its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The flavonoids and terpenoids present in Ginkgo biloba creams improve blood circulation to the affected area, promoting faster healing and reducing pain and swelling.
Additionally, its antiseptic properties help to prevent infection and promote a healthy environment for the nail to grow out, reducing the risk of further ingrown toenails and promoting overall nail health.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba creams that help with ingrown toenail.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help alleviate inflammation and improve circulation, which can reduce swelling and promote healing of ingrown toenails.
- Terpenoids: Terpenoids in Ginkgo biloba help reduce inflammation and prevent infection, which can help in the treatment of ingrown toenail by reducing pain and discomfort.
- Bilobalide: This terpene derivative helps in improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation, which can aid in the healing of ingrown toenails by promoting healthy tissue growth and preventing further irritation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make creams for ingrown toenail.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to help reduce inflammation and promote wound healing.
- Seeds: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids, as well as other compounds that may help to reduce inflammation and promote tissue repair.
- Barks: They may contain flavonoids and terpenoids that help to reduce inflammation, promote wound healing, and improve circulation to the affected area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for ingrown toenail.
- Crush 500mg of dried ginkgo biloba leaves into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Combine the powdered ginkgo biloba with 200ml of distilled water in a double boiler to create a decoction.
- Steep the mixture for 20-30 minutes over low heat to allow the active compounds to infuse.
- Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth into a clean mixing bowl to separate the liquid from solids.
- Mix the strained decoction with 100g of shea butter and 10g of beeswax in a double boiler to create a smooth cream.
10. Urtica dioica
Urtica dioica, also known as stinging nettle, creams helps with ingrown toenail because of its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
The cream reduces redness and swelling, allowing the skin to heal faster and promoting a healthy environment for the nail to grow. The antiseptic properties also help prevent infection, which can exacerbate the condition.
As the skin heals, the pressure on the nail is reduced, allowing it to grow out normally and alleviating the discomfort associated with ingrown toenails.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica creams that help with ingrown toenail.
- Stachydrine: It helps with ingrown toenail by exhibiting anti-inflammatory properties, reducing swelling and pain associated with the condition.
- Tannins: Tannins in Urtica dioica creams help to reduce the risk of infection and promote wound healing, which can alleviate the discomfort of an ingrown toenail.
- Nitrates: Nitrates, specifically nitrate derivatives, have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects and improve blood flow, which can aid in the healing of ingrown toenail tissue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make creams for ingrown toenail.
- Leaves: Used for their anti-inflammatory and astringent properties to soothe and reduce inflammation around the affected area.
- Roots: Used for their antimicrobial and antifungal properties to prevent infection and promote healing.
- Stems: Used for their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce pain, swelling, and redness.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic stinging nettle for ingrown toenail.
- Harvest the urtica dioica leaves and stems on a dry day when the plant is in full bloom.
- Clean the harvested plant material by gently rinsing it with distilled water to remove dirt and debris.
- Blend 200 grams of the cleaned urtica dioica plant material with 1 liter of distilled water in a saucepan.
- Boil the mixture for 10 to 15 minutes then reduce heat and let simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container and mix with a base ingredient such as shea butter or coconut oil to create a cream.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for ingrown toenail?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with ingrown toenail is a blend of Tea Tree oil, Aloe Vera, and Calendula.
Tea Tree oil's antibacterial properties help prevent infection, while Aloe Vera's anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling and pain. Calendula's soothing and moisturizing properties promote healing and prevent ingrown toenail from worsening. Apply a mixture of these three creams topically, 2-3 times a day, to alleviate discomfort and promote healthy nail growth.
Consult a doctor before using any new creams, especially if you have a severe infection.
What ailments similar to ingrown toenail are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to ingrown toenail that are treated with herbal creams are various skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Herbal creams containing ingredients like tea tree oil, aloe vera, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing redness and inflammation.
These creams can also promote wound healing and prevent infection in cases of minor cuts or scrapes.