10 Best Herbal Creams For Nail Fungus

Herbal creams for nail fungus are topical treatments that use plant extracts to combat fungal infections of the nails.

These creams typically contain antifungal agents such as tea tree oil, neem, and turmeric, which help to reduce fungal growth and promote healthy nail growth. Examples include creams containing clotrimazole and econazole.

These creams can improve lives by relieving discomfort and promoting the appearance of healthy nails.

The following article describes in detail the most important creams for nail fungus, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Melaleuca alternifolia

Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties, which combat the fungal infection causing the condition.

The active compound, terpinen-4-ol, in the cream creates an environment that is not conducive to the growth of fungi, thereby promoting healthy nail growth. Additionally, tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and discomfort associated with nail fungus, allowing the nail to recover and return to its normal state.

Regular application of Melaleuca alternifolia cream may lead to significant improvements.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with nail fungus.

• Cineole: It helps to penetrate the nail and surrounding skin, providing an antifungal effect that inhibits the growth of fungal pathogens.
• Limonene: It has antifungal properties that help to reduce the fungal load and prevent the spread of the infection, promoting a healthy nail environment.
• Caryophyllene: It has antimicrobial properties that help to reduce inflammation and prevent the growth of fungal pathogens, promoting a healthy nail environment and aiding in the recovery from nail fungus.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for nail fungus.

• Leaves: The leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia are widely used due to their high content of tea tree oil, which is known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
• Stems: The stems of Melaleuca alternifolia contain essential oils that help to combat fungal infections and soothe the affected area.
• Barks: The barks of Melaleuca alternifolia are used to make creams for nail fungus due to their antimicrobial properties, which help to prevent the growth of fungi and promote healthy nail growth.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for nail fungus.

1. Harvest 30 grams of dried melaleuca alternifolia flowers at their optimal potency for use in cream production.
2. Steep the flowers in 1 liter of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil for 2 to 3 weeks.
3. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth to separate the oil from the plant material within an hour.
4. Mix 10 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of candelilla wax with the infused oil in a double boiler.
5. Pour the mixture into a container and allow it to cool and solidify for 30 minutes.

2. Allium sativum

Allium sativum, also known as garlic, creams helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties.

The active compounds in garlic, such as allicin and diallyl sulfide, inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens, including Trichophyton and Epidermophyton, which cause nail fungus. These compounds also have anti-inflammatory effects, reducing redness and swelling associated with the condition.

Additionally, garlic's antimicrobial properties help to prevent the spread of infection, promoting a healthy environment for nail growth and recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Allium sativum creams that help with nail fungus.

• Allicin: Allicin is a sulfur-containing compound that helps combat nail fungus by exhibiting antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties, effectively inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens such as Trichophyton mentagrophytes.
• S-allylcysteine: SAC is a stable and bioavailable compound that has been shown to exhibit antifungal and antiproliferative activities, which help prevent the spread of fungal infections and promote healing in affected nails.
• Quercetin: Quercetin is a flavonoid compound that has potent antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in reducing fungal growth, inflammation, and oxidative stress associated with nail fungal infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of garlic used to make creams for nail fungus.

• Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are commonly used due to their high concentration of compounds with antifungal properties, such as allicin.
• Buds: Buds are utilized for their medicinal properties, which help to prevent the growth of fungi and promote healthy nail growth.
• Leaves: Leaves are used for their ability to inhibit the growth of fungi and promote the healing of nail fungus due to their content of antioxidants and other compounds.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic garlic for nail fungus.

1. Harvest 20-30 fresh allium sativum bulbs in the early morning for optimal oil content and medicinal properties.
2. Peel and chop the bulbs into small pieces then weigh out 200 grams of the chopped material.
3. Mix the chopped allium sativum with 1000 milliliters of carrier oil such as coconut or olive oil.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler at 40 to 50 degrees celsius for 6 to 8 hours.
5. Strain the infused oil through cheesecloth and transfer the herbal cream to glass jars for storage.

3. Origanum vulgare

Origanum vulgare, also known as wild marjoram, creams helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties.

The herb contains compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal organisms that cause nail infections. These compounds help to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy environment for the nail to grow. Regular application of Origanum vulgare creams may help to clear up fungal infections and promote healthy nail growth.

It's a natural and effective treatment option for those suffering from nail fungus.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Origanum vulgare creams that help with nail fungus.

• Carvacrol: This terpene has antifungal properties, which can inhibit the growth of fungi causing nail fungus, such as Trichophyton rubrum.
• Thymol: This phenolic compound exhibits antimicrobial activity, which can help combat fungal infections in the nail by reducing their growth and proliferation.
• Rosmarinic acid: This phenolic acid has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate symptoms associated with nail fungus, such as inflammation and oxidative stress.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of wild marjoram used to make creams for nail fungus.

• Leaves: Rich in essential oils, particularly carvacrol, which has antifungal properties.
• Stems: Contain antimicrobial compounds that help combat fungal infections.
• Roots: Contain bioactive compounds that exhibit antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wild marjoram for nail fungus.

1. Harvest 50 grams of fresh origanum vulgare leaves and flowers in the morning when they are most fragrant.
2. Steep the harvested plant material in 200 milliliters of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes.
3. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth and discard the solids then refrigerate for 2 hours.
4. Mix 100 grams of beeswax with 100 grams of shea butter in a double boiler.
5. Combine the cooled plant infusion with the melted beeswax and shea butter mixture then whip until smooth.

4. Calendula officinalis

Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties.

The cream's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, inhibit the growth of fungal cells, including those responsible for onychomycosis. Additionally, Calendula's anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help soothe and protect the affected nail and surrounding tissue, promoting a healthy environment for the nail to recover.

This natural approach can aid in the treatment and prevention of nail fungus.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with nail fungus.

• Triterpenoids: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antifungal activity by inhibiting the growth of various fungal species, which could help combat nail fungus.
• Sesquiterpenes: These compounds have been found to possess antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which could contribute to the antifungal effects seen in Calendula officinalis creams.
• Flavonoids: Quercetin has been shown to exhibit antifungal activity by inhibiting the growth of fungal species and also has anti-inflammatory properties, which could help alleviate symptoms associated with nail fungus.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for nail fungus.

• Flowers: The flowers of Calendula officinalis are commonly used to make creams for nail fungus due to their high content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which exhibit antifungal properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of Calendula officinalis are also used in creams for nail fungus because they contain saponins, which help in fighting fungal infections.
• Seeds: The seeds of Calendula officinalis are used in creams for nail fungus due to their high content of triterpenoid saponins, which exhibit antifungal and antiseptic properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for nail fungus.

1. Harvest 1/4 cup of dried calendula officinalis flowers for maximum potency and fresh aroma.
2. Combine 1/4 cup of beeswax with 1/2 cup of coconut oil in a double boiler at 180°f.
3. Add 1/4 cup of distilled water and 2 tablespoons of honey to the melted mixture slowly.
4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of dried calendula officinalis flowers steeped in 2 tablespoons of hot water for 10 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into glass jars and allow it to cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes.

5. Lavandula angustifolia

Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, creams helps with nail fungus because of its potent antifungal properties.

The active compounds in lavender, including linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause nail infections. The cream's antimicrobial properties also help to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy environment for nail growth. By applying the cream topically, individuals can help to combat fungal infections and promote a more even and healthy nail appearance.

Regular use may also prevent future infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia creams that help with nail fungus.

• Linalool: A terpene that exhibits antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens that cause nail fungus.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid that has been shown to possess antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which can aid in the treatment and prevention of nail fungus.
• Caffeic acid: A phenolic acid that has been found to exhibit antifungal and antioxidant properties, which can help to reduce fungal growth and inflammation associated with nail fungus.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make creams for nail fungus.

• Leaves: Lavandula angustifolia leaves are used due to their antifungal and antiseptic properties, which help combat fungal infections.
• Flowers: Lavandula angustifolia flowers are used due to their antiseptic and antimicrobial properties, which aid in preventing the growth of fungal organisms.
• Seeds: Lavandula angustifolia seeds are used due to their antioxidant and antifungal properties, which help reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for nail fungus.

1. Weigh out 20 grams of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers and place them in a clean glass jar.
2. Combine 100 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil with the dried flowers in the jar.
3. Steep the mixture in a warm dark place for 2-3 weeks or 14-21 days shaking daily.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean bowl and discard solids.
5. Add 20 grams of beeswax and 20 milliliters of distilled water to the oil infusion and heat gently until the wax dissolves.

6. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris, also known as thyme, creams helps with nail fungus because of its antimicrobial properties.

The active compounds in thyme, such as thymol and carvacrol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens, including those responsible for nail fungus. These compounds work by disrupting the fungal cell membrane, ultimately leading to the death of the fungus.

As a result, thyme creams can provide a natural and effective solution for treating nail fungus, promoting healthy nail growth and clearing up infected areas.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Thymus vulgaris creams that help with nail fungus.

• Carvacrol: Carvacrol, a phenolic compound, exhibits antifungal properties, which help combat fungal infections like nail fungus by inhibiting fungal growth and proliferation.
• Thymol: Thymol, a phenolic compound, has antifungal and antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce fungal loads and promote a healthy environment for nail growth.
• Rosmarinic acid: Rosmarinic acid, a phenolic diterpene, possesses antioxidant and antifungal properties, which help protect the nail from oxidative stress and inhibit fungal growth, ultimately promoting healthy nail development.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of thyme used to make creams for nail fungus.

• Leaves: Thyme leaves contain thymol, a compound known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, which helps combat nail fungus.
• Buds: Thyme buds are also rich in thymol, making them effective in treating nail fungus due to their antifungal and antibacterial properties.
• Flowers: Thyme flowers contain essential oils, including thymol and carvacrol, which have antifungal and antibacterial properties that aid in nail fungus treatment.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic thyme for nail fungus.

1. Harvest 1 cup of fresh thymus vulgaris leaves and stems from the garden in the early morning.
2. Steep 2 tablespoons of the harvested leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 5 minutes.
3. Mix 2 tablespoons of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of coconut oil in a double boiler.
4. Combine 2 tablespoons of the cooled herbal infusion with the beeswax mixture and stir until fully incorporated.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and solidify completely before transferring it to a storage container.

7. Syzygium aromaticum

Syzygium aromaticum, also known as cloves, creams helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties.

The active compound eugenol, present in cloves, has been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal cells, including those responsible for nail fungus. By applying creams containing Syzygium aromaticum extract to the affected nail, you can help to reduce the severity of the infection and promote a healthy nail environment.

This can lead to improved nail health and a reduced risk of fungal recurrence.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Syzygium aromaticum creams that help with nail fungus.

• Eugenol: Eugenol is a phenolic compound that has antifungal properties, which help to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens such as Trichophyton rubrum that cause nail fungus.
• Caryophyllene oxide: Caryophyllene oxide is a sesquiterpene that exhibits antifungal and antibacterial activities, helping to combat fungal infections and promote a healthy nail environment.
• Α-humulene: α-Humulene is a sesquiterpene that has been shown to possess antifungal properties, which can help to reduce fungal growth and alleviate symptoms of nail fungus.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of cloves used to make creams for nail fungus.

• Flowers: Used for their antifungal properties to combat nail fungus.
• Buds: Employed for their antibacterial and antifungal characteristics to treat nail fungus.
• Barks: Utilized for their antiseptic and antifungal properties to promote healing in nail fungus creams.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cloves for nail fungus.

1. Extract 10 grams of dried syzygium aromaticum in a glass container with 100ml of carrier oil using a double boiler for 2 hours.
2. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into a clean glass container and discard the solids after 30 minutes of straining.
3. Mix 20 grams of beeswax and 10 grams of shea butter with 10 grams of the extracted oil in a glass bowl.
4. Heat the mixture in a double boiler for 10 minutes or until the beeswax and shea butter have melted.
5. Allow the mixture to cool and thicken for 30 minutes to an hour before transferring to a glass jar.

8. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, also known as ginger, creams helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties.

The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol and shogaol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens that cause nail infections. Additionally, ginger's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce swelling and redness associated with nail fungus.

By applying a cream containing Zingiber officinale extract to the affected nail, individuals can potentially promote a healthy environment for nail growth and combat fungal infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale creams that help with nail fungus.

• Gingerols: Gingerols, a type of phenolic compound, have antimicrobial properties that can help combat fungal infections such as nail fungus by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells.
• Curcuminoids: Curcuminoids, a type of polyphenol, possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help alleviate symptoms of nail fungus, such as redness and swelling, and prevent fungal growth.
• Shogaols: Shogaols, a type of gingerol, have been shown to exhibit antifungal activity, which can help combat nail fungus by inhibiting the production of fungal enzymes and preventing fungal cell growth.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make creams for nail fungus.

• Rhyzomes: The most commonly used part, as they contain high amounts of bioactive compounds that help combat fungal infections.
• Barks: Used for their antimicrobial properties, which help to prevent the growth of fungi and other microorganisms.
• Roots: Employed for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which aid in soothing and healing the affected nail area.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for nail fungus.

1. Harvest 2-3 pounds of fresh zingiber officinale roots with thick skin intact for their medicinal properties.
2. Wash the harvested roots thoroughly with distilled water and dry them for 24 hours.
3. Grind 200g of dried zingiber officinale roots into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
4. Mix 200g of shea butter with 100g of coconut oil and 20g of the powder in a heat-resistant bowl.
5. Stir the mixture continuously over low heat for 30 minutes until it reaches a smooth consistency.

9. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, also known as turmeric, creams helps with nail fungus because of its potent antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

The active compound curcumin in these creams has been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, such as Trichophyton rubrum and Candida albicans, that cause nail fungus. Additionally, curcumin's ability to reduce inflammation can help alleviate symptoms like pain and discomfort associated with nail fungus, promoting a healthy environment for nail growth and reducing the risk of infection.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to combat various health issues.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Curcuma longa creams that help with nail fungus.

• Curcumin: A phenolic compound that inhibits fungal growth and development, reducing the severity of nail fungus by suppressing the production of fungal enzymes.
• Beta-caryophyllene: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which helps to reduce inflammation and prevent the spread of fungal infections in the nail.
• Demethoxycurcumin: A curcuminoid with potent antifungal activity, which inhibits the growth of fungi by disrupting their cell membranes and metabolic pathways, ultimately leading to the death of fungal cells.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of turmeric used to make creams for nail fungus.

• Rhyzomes: Turmeric, the primary active ingredient in Curcuma longa, is extracted from the rhyzomes, which contain high levels of curcumin, a natural antifungal agent.
• Roots: The roots of Curcuma longa contain turmeric, which is used to create creams that help treat nail fungus due to its antimicrobial properties.
• Leaves: Curcuma longa leaves contain compounds that have antifungal properties, making them a potential ingredient in creams for treating nail fungus.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric for nail fungus.

1. Grate 50g of dried curcuma longa roots to release their active compounds and prepare for infusion.
2. Combine the grated curcuma longa with 100ml of distilled water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat and simmer the mixture for 10 minutes to extract the curcuma longa's bioactive compounds.
4. Strain the curcuma longa infusion through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl to remove solids.
5. Whip 200g of shea butter with 100g of coconut oil and add the curcuma longa infusion to create a smooth cream.

10. Berberis vulgaris

Berberis vulgaris, also known as barberry, creams helps with nail fungus because it contains berberine, a potent antimicrobial compound.

This natural ingredient has been traditionally used to combat fungal infections. The berberine in Berberis vulgaris creams works by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells, thereby preventing the spread of the infection.

Additionally, the anti-inflammatory properties of Berberis vulgaris help to soothe and calm the affected area, promoting healthy nail growth and reducing the visibility of fungal infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Berberis vulgaris creams that help with nail fungus.

• Berberine: Berberine, an alkaloid constituent, helps with nail fungus by exhibiting antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens, such as Trichophyton rubrum.
• Vasakine: Vasakine, a phenolic glycoside, helps with nail fungus by demonstrating antifungal activity that prevents the penetration of fungal pathogens into the nail plate and surrounding tissue.
• Oleanolic acid: Oleanolic acid, a triterpenoid saponin, helps with nail fungus by displaying immunomodulatory effects that enhance the body's immune response and reduce inflammation associated with fungal infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of barberry used to make creams for nail fungus.

• Roots: Used due to their high content of berberine, a compound with antifungal properties.
• Barks: Used because they contain berberine and other alkaloids that help combat fungal infections.
• Leaves: Employed for their berberine content, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi causing nail fungus.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic barberry for nail fungus.

1. Extract 50 grams of dried roots and stems in 500ml of 90% ethanol for 2 weeks to obtain a tincture.
2. Combine 200ml of the obtained tincture with 100ml of distilled water to dilute the solution to 30% ethanol.
3. Melt 100 grams of beeswax in 200ml of distilled water in a double boiler to create a wax base.
4. Mix the diluted tincture with the melted wax base and stir well for 10 minutes to combine the ingredients.
5. Pour the mixture into sterile jars and allow it to cool and solidify at room temperature for 30 minutes.

What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for nail fungus?

The best combination of herbal creams that help with nail fungus is a blend of tea tree oil, lavender oil, and oregano oil.

Tea tree oil's antifungal properties combat the infection, while lavender oil's soothing properties calm inflammation and promote healthy nail growth. Oregano oil's antiseptic properties add an extra layer of protection against fungal spores. Apply a mixture of these oils to the affected nail, ideally twice a day, to promote a healthy recovery.

A natural and effective treatment option for nail fungus sufferers.

What ailments similar to nail fungus are treated with herbal creams?

Ailments similar to nail fungus that are treated with herbal creams are eczema, acne, and ringworm.

These conditions often cause skin irritation, itching, or inflammation, which can be alleviated by topical herbal treatments. Herbs such as tea tree oil, chamomile, and calendula have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help soothe and heal these skin issues.

Herbal creams containing these ingredients may also promote healthy skin regeneration and reduce scarring.