By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Teas For Nail Fungus
Herbal teas for nail fungus are a natural remedy that helps alleviate fungal infections on the nails.
These teas contain antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungi, promoting healthy nail growth. Examples of herbal teas for nail fungus include tea tree oil, oregano, and turmeric, which have been shown to improve symptoms and reduce the risk of infection recurrence.
Improved nail health can boost confidence and overall well-being, enabling individuals to engage in daily activities with ease and comfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important teas for nail fungus, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Teucrium chamaedrys
- 2. Sambucus nigra
- 3. Echinacea purpurea
- 4. Calendula officinalis
- 5. Achillea millefolium
- 6. Taraxacum officinale
- 7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
- 8. Eriolobus trilobatus
- 9. Lavandula angustifolia
- 10. Hypericum perforatum
- What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for nail fungus?
- What ailments similar to nail fungus are treated with herbal teas?
1. Teucrium chamaedrys
Teucrium chamaedrys, also known as germander, teas helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal and antiseptic properties.
The herb contains compounds like teucrin and teucrin B, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal cells, including those causing nail fungus. Additionally, germander's antimicrobial properties help to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy environment for nail growth.
This makes Teucrium chamaedrys a promising natural remedy for treating fungal nail infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Teucrium chamaedrys teas that help with nail fungus.
- Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that exhibits antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which could help combat fungal infections in nails.
- Catechins: A type of flavonoid that may inhibit fungal growth and reduce inflammation, potentially aiding in the treatment of nail fungus.
- Volatile terpenes: These compounds have antimicrobial properties, which could help prevent fungal overgrowth and promote a healthy environment for nail growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of germander used to make teas for nail fungus.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Teucrium chamaedrys for making teas due to their high content of essential oils that exhibit antifungal properties.
- Roots: Roots are used for their medicinal properties, including antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help in treating nail fungus.
- Stems: Stems are also used due to their ability to act as a source of essential oils that have antifungal and antibacterial properties, aiding in the treatment of nail fungus.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic germander for nail fungus.
- Gather 2 teaspoons of dried teucrium chamaedrys flowers and leaves for every 8 ounces of water needed.
- Steep the dried flowers and leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids.
- Add honey or sugar to taste for sweetness if desired to mask bitter flavors.
- Serve the herbal tea hot or iced and enjoy within 30 minutes of preparation.
2. Sambucus nigra
Sambucus nigra, also known as elder, teas helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties.
The Elderberry plant contains flavonoids and anthocyanins that have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal infections, including nail fungus. These compounds work by disrupting the fungal cell membrane, ultimately leading to the death of the fungus. As a result, the tea can help to promote healthy nail growth and reduce the appearance of fungal infections, such as yellowing or thickening of the nails.
This natural remedy has been used for centuries to treat various fungal infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra teas that help with nail fungus.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have antifungal properties, which can inhibit the growth of fungi that cause nail fungus, such as Trichophyton rubrum.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antifungal and anti-inflammatory activities, which can help to reduce inflammation and prevent the spread of fungal infections in the nail.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants can help to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, creating an environment that is less conducive to fungal growth and potentially promoting the healing of nail fungus.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make teas for nail fungus.
- Flowers: They are commonly used due to their high content of anthocyanins and phenolic acids, which have antimicrobial properties that help combat fungal infections.
- Leaves: The leaves are used because they contain a compound called saponin, which has been shown to exhibit antifungal activity and help treat nail fungus.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their high concentration of isothiocyanates, which have been found to have antifungal and antibacterial properties that aid in treating nail fungus.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for nail fungus.
- Gather 25-50 grams of dried sambucus nigra berries from a reputable source or harvest your own.
- Measure and combine the dried berries with 250-500 ml of boiling water in a heat-resistant teapot.
- Steep the mixture for 5-10 minutes or until the desired flavor and aroma are achieved.
- Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a separate container to remove the solids.
- Allow the tea to cool before serving and consuming in moderation due to potential interactions.
3. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, teas helps with nail fungus because of its potent antifungal properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as alkylamides and caffeic acid, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal cells, including those that cause nail fungus. By drinking Echinacea purpurea tea, individuals may be able to stimulate their immune system and reduce inflammation, creating an environment less conducive to fungal growth and potentially promoting healthy nail growth.
This natural approach can be a valuable adjunct to traditional treatments.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea teas that help with nail fungus.
- Cichoric acid: This phenolic acid may help inhibit fungal growth and reduce inflammation in the affected area, creating an environment less conducive to fungal infections.
- Caffeic acid: As a phenolic compound, caffeic acid has been shown to possess antifungal properties, which could help combat fungal infections such as nail fungus.
- Isobutyl amide: This terpene has been found to possess antimicrobial properties, including antifungal activity, which could potentially help reduce the severity of nail fungus.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make teas for nail fungus.
- Roots: The roots are used due to their high concentration of alkaloids, which are believed to have antifungal properties.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their ability to stimulate the immune system and potentially inhibit the growth of fungal cells.
- Flowers: The flowers are used because of their reported antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of nail fungus.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for nail fungus.
- Gently harvest fresh or dried echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves from mature plants.
- Crush 1-2 teaspoons of dried flowers and leaves into a powder using a mortar and pestle.
- Steep the powder in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-10 minutes to release active compounds.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove solids.
- Serve the tea immediately and consume within 30 minutes for optimal benefits.
4. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, teas helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The plant's active compounds, such as triterpenoids and flavonoids, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, including those that cause nail infections. Additionally, calendula's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce redness and swelling associated with nail fungus.
The antiseptic properties of the tea also help to promote a healthy environment for the nail to grow, ultimately aiding in the treatment of fungal infections.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis teas that help with nail fungus.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have potent antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help combat fungal infections such as nail fungus by inhibiting the growth of fungi.
- Carotenoids: As an antioxidant, β-Carotene helps protect the nails from oxidative damage, reducing the severity of nail fungus symptoms and promoting healthy nail growth.
- Sesquiterpenes: This compound exhibits antifungal activity, inhibiting the growth of fungi that cause nail fungus and promoting a healthy nail environment.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make teas for nail fungus.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high concentration of anti-inflammatory and antifungal compounds, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids.
- Leaves: They are used for their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help to combat fungal infections.
- Stems: They are used due to their content of flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that have been shown to have antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for nail fungus.
- Gather 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried calendula flowers.
- Infuse the dried flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a cup.
- Allow the tea to cool down to a comfortable drinking temperature.
- Drink the tea immediately to reap its potential benefits within 30 minutes.
5. Achillea millefolium
Achillea millefolium, also known as yarrow, teas helps with nail fungus because it is rich in antifungal compounds that inhibit the growth of fungi.
The tea's antimicrobial properties target the root cause of the infection, allowing the nail to recover naturally. Yarrow's active ingredients, including sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, work to break down fungal cell walls and prevent further infection, promoting healthy nail growth and resolving symptoms of nail fungus.
Regular consumption of yarrow tea may help to alleviate nail fungus symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Achillea millefolium teas that help with nail fungus.
- Essential oils: These constituents exhibit antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungi responsible for nail fungus, such as Trichophyton and Candida.
- Flavonoids and phenolic acids: These compounds possess antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce fungal infections and alleviate symptoms associated with nail fungus.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid has been shown to exhibit antifungal and antimicrobial activity, which can help combat fungal infections and promote a healthy environment for nail growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of yarrow used to make teas for nail fungus.
- Leaves: Used due to their high concentration of essential oils and compounds like sesquiterpene lactones, which have antifungal properties.
- Flowers: Used because they contain a mixture of sesquiterpene lactones and other compounds that have been shown to inhibit fungal growth.
- Roots: Used for their rich content of sesquiterpene lactones and other bioactive compounds, which are believed to help combat fungal infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yarrow for nail fungus.
- Harvest 1/4 cup of fresh achillea millefolium leaves and flowers in the morning for maximum potency and flavor.
- Rinse the harvested herbs in a fine mesh strainer under cold running water for 30 seconds.
- Chop the rinsed herbs into small pieces using kitchen shears or a sharp knife within 1 minute.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried achillea millefolium or 2 teaspoons of fresh leaves in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine mesh strainer into a cup and serve immediately after 30 seconds.
6. Taraxacum officinale
Taraxacum officinale, also known as dandelion, teas helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties and high content of taraxasterol.
This compound has been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause nail infections, such as Onychomycosis. Additionally, the tea's high antioxidant levels help to promote a healthy nail environment, reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of new, healthy nail tissue.
This makes Taraxacum officinale tea a promising natural remedy for treating nail fungus.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale teas that help with nail fungus.
- Apolactone glycosides: These compounds have been shown to exhibit antifungal properties, helping to combat fungal infections like nail fungus by inhibiting the growth of fungal cells.
- Taraxasterol: A triterpene compound found in Taraxacum officinale, taraxasterol has been reported to possess antifungal activity, which helps to prevent the spread of fungal infections and promote healthy nail growth.
- Taraxasterol acetate: Similar to taraxasterol, taraxasterol acetate also exhibits antifungal properties, contributing to the tea's ability to inhibit fungal growth and alleviate symptoms of nail fungus.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make teas for nail fungus.
- Leaves: Leaves are used due to their high content of saponins, which are believed to have antifungal properties.
- Roots: Roots are used as they contain a higher concentration of taraxasterol, a triterpene that may help combat fungal infections.
- Stems: Stems are used due to their content of saponins and other bioactive compounds that may aid in treating nail fungus.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for nail fungus.
- Harvest the fresh leaves of taraxacum officinale in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler.
- Rinse the taraxacum officinale leaves with filtered water to remove any dirt or debris from the environment.
- Combine one teaspoon of dried taraxacum officinale leaves or two teaspoons of fresh leaves with 8 ounces of boiling water.
- Steep the taraxacum officinale mixture for 5 to 7 minutes to allow the herbal properties to infuse.
- Strain the taraxacum officinale tea and discard the solids before serving the herbal liquid at room temperature.
7. Glycyrrhiza glabra
Glycyrrhiza glabra, also known as licorice, teas helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties, which help to combat fungal infections that cause nail fungus.
The tea's active compounds, such as glycyrrhizin and flavonoids, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, including those that cause onychomycosis.
Additionally, licorice root tea has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy nail growth, making it a natural remedy for treating nail fungus.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra teas that help with nail fungus.
- Licoricidin: This triterpenoid saponin has antifungal properties, which can help inhibit the growth of fungi that cause nail fungus, such as Trichophyton and Candida species.
- Licorisole: This phenolic glycoside has been shown to possess antifungal and antibacterial activities, helping to prevent the spread of nail fungus and promote a healthy nail environment.
- Glycyrrhizin: This triterpenoid saponin has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, which can help soothe and protect the nail and surrounding skin from fungal infections, promoting healing and a reduction in fungal growth.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make teas for nail fungus.
- Roots: They are used due to their high content of glycyrrhizin, a compound with antifungal properties that can help combat nail fungus.
- Stems: They are used because they also contain glycyrrhizin, which can help to reduce fungal growth and promote healthy nail growth.
- Leaves: They are used due to their antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to soothe and treat fungal infections of the nails.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice for nail fungus.
- Gather 1-2 teaspoons of dried glycyrrhiza glabra root powder from a reputable herbal supplier or harvest it locally.
- Boil 1 cup of water in a teapot for 5-7 minutes or use a electric kettle.
- Steep the root powder in the boiling water for 5-10 minutes to allow for optimal extraction.
- Strain the liquid through a fine mesh sieve into a cup to remove any remaining solids.
- Enjoy the tea immediately or store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for later consumption.
8. Eriolobus trilobatus
Eriolobus trilobatus, also known as three-lobed desert-holly, teas helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties.
The tea is rich in compounds that inhibit the growth of fungi, particularly those that cause nail infections. The antifungal agents in the tea work to combat the fungal infection, promoting a healthy environment for nail growth. Additionally, Eriolobus trilobatus tea has anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce swelling and discomfort associated with nail fungus.
This natural remedy offers a holistic approach to treating nail fungus.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eriolobus trilobatus teas that help with nail fungus.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help combat nail fungus by exhibiting antifungal properties, which inhibit the growth and spread of fungal infections.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds possess antimicrobial and antifungal properties, helping to reduce fungal proliferation and alleviate symptoms associated with nail fungus.
- Tannins: These astringent compounds contribute to the antifungal activity of Eriolobus trilobatus, by reducing the growth of fungal cells and preventing their spread.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of three-lobed desert-holly used to make teas for nail fungus.
- Leaves: Used to make teas due to their potential antifungal properties, which might help combat nail fungus.
- Roots: Used in teas because of their traditional use in herbal medicine to treat various health issues, including fungal infections.
- Barks: Used to make teas due to their potential antimicrobial properties, which might help alleviate symptoms of nail fungus.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic three-lobed desert-holly for nail fungus.
- Harvest fresh eriolobus trilobatus leaves from a clean area with minimal contamination.
- Dry the harvested leaves in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Measure out 1 teaspoon of dried eriolobus trilobatus leaves per 8 ounce cup of boiling water.
- Steep the dried eriolobus trilobatus leaves in boiling water for 5 to 7 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard the solids to serve immediately and enjoy.
9. Lavandula angustifolia
Lavandula angustifolia, also known as English lavender, teas helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties and ability to improve blood circulation.
The terpenes present in lavender tea, such as linalool and linalyl acetate, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause nail infections. Additionally, the tea's vasodilatory effects help to increase blood flow to the nails, promoting healthy nail growth and reducing the risk of fungal infections.
This makes lavender tea a potential natural remedy for treating nail fungus.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Lavandula angustifolia teas that help with nail fungus.
- Linalool: A terpene with antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens that cause nail fungus.
- Lavandulol: A monoterpenoid with antimicrobial activity, which can help combat fungal infections and promote a healthy nail environment.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with nail fungus.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of english lavender used to make teas for nail fungus.
- Leaves: Used in nail fungus teas due to their antifungal properties which can help combat fungal infections.
- Flowers: Utilized in these teas because of their antiseptic and antifungal properties that aid in treating nail fungus.
- Seeds: Employed in nail fungus teas for their antifungal properties which help to kill fungal spores and promote healthy nail growth.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic english lavender for nail fungus.
- Harvest 20-30 grams of fresh lavandula angustifolia flowers from your garden or a local source by hand.
- Rinse the harvested flowers gently with cool water to remove any dirt or debris instantly.
- Dry the fresh flowers in a single layer using a paper bag and a warm oven at 150°f for 2 hours.
- Store the dried flowers in an airtight container for up to 6 months to preserve their flavor.
- Steep 1 teaspoon of dried lavandula angustifolia flowers in 8 ounces of boiling water for 5-7 minutes.
10. Hypericum perforatum
Hypericum perforatum, also known as St John's Wort, teas helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties.
The tea's active compounds, such as hyperforin and hypericin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause nail infections. These compounds also exhibit antimicrobial activity, which helps to prevent the spread of infection. Additionally, the tea's antioxidant properties may help to promote healthy nail growth and reduce inflammation associated with fungal infections.
This makes St John's Wort tea a potential natural remedy for treating nail fungus.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hypericum perforatum teas that help with nail fungus.
- Hyperforin: It helps to inhibit the growth of fungal cells, thereby reducing the severity of nail fungus.
- Naphthodianthrones: They exhibit antifungal properties, which prevent the spread of fungal infections and promote a healthy nail growth environment.
- Quercetin: It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce inflammation and prevent tissue damage associated with nail fungus.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of st john's wort used to make teas for nail fungus.
- Leaves: The leaves are the most commonly used part of Hypericum perforatum in teas for nail fungus due to their high concentration of hyperforin and hypericin, compounds with antifungal properties.
- Flowers: The flowers are also used in teas for nail fungus treatment because they contain flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, which have been shown to have antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Stems: The stems of Hypericum perforatum are occasionally used in teas for nail fungus treatment, as they contain similar compounds to the leaves, including hyperforin and hypericin, which may help combat fungal infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic st john's wort for nail fungus.
- Gather 1/2 cup of dried hypericum perforatum flowers and 1 quart of boiling water for tea preparation.
- Steep the dried flowers in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to allow flavors and oils to infuse.
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to separate the solids from the liquid.
- Discard the solids and store the tea in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Serve the tea hot or iced and consume 1-2 cups per day for desired therapeutic effects.
What is the best combination of herbal teas to use for nail fungus?
The best combination of herbal teas that help with nail fungus is a blend of tea tree oil-infused peppermint tea, echinacea tea, and calendula tea.
Tea tree oil's antimicrobial properties combat fungal infections, while peppermint tea's cooling effect soothes the nail bed. Echinacea tea's immune-boosting properties support the body's natural defenses, and calendula tea's anti-inflammatory properties reduce redness and promote healing.
Drinking this blend can help alleviate symptoms and promote healthy nail growth.
What ailments similar to nail fungus are treated with herbal teas?
Ailments similar to nail fungus that are treated with herbal teas are skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis.
Herbal teas like chamomile, calendula, and lavender have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe and calm irritated skin.
Teas like green tea and turmeric also contain antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and promote healing in the skin.