10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Nail Fungus

Herbal tinctures for nail fungus are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, which have been used to treat fungal infections of the nails.

They help by penetrating deep into the nail bed and targeting the fungal infection, promoting healthy nail growth and eliminating the infection. Examples of herbal tinctures that show promising results include tea tree oil, lavender oil, and oregano oil.

By using these tinctures, people with nail fungus can regain confidence in their appearance, feel more comfortable in their own skin, and improve overall health.

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

1. Teucrium chamaedrys

Germander tinctures helps with nail fungus because it possesses antifungal properties that target the fungal infections that cause nail discoloration, brittleness, and thickening.

The tannins present in germander help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy circulation, which aids in the elimination of fungal toxins from the body.

Additionally, the antimicrobial properties of germander work synergistically with other natural ingredients to create an environment that is unfavorable for fungal growth, thereby promoting healthy nail regrowth and clearing up fungal infections.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Teucrium chamaedrys tinctures that help with nail fungus.

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound that has been shown to exhibit antifungal properties, which can help inhibit the growth of fungi that cause nail fungus.
• Ternenoids: Terpenoids have been found to possess antimicrobial and antifungal activities, which can help combat fungal infections in the nails.
• Flavonoids: Flavonoids have been reported to have antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and inhibit fungal growth in the nails.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of germander used to make tinctures for nail fungus.

• Leaves: The leaves are used for their antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which are believed to help combat fungal infections.
• Stems: The stems of Teucrium chamaedrys may be used due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which could aid in soothing and treating fungal nail infections.
• Roots: The roots of the plant are sometimes used in herbal medicine due to their supposed antifungal and antibacterial properties, which could help combat fungal nail infections.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh or dried leaves of teucrium chamaedrys in the morning or after drying to preserve quality.
2. Clean the leaves thoroughly with distilled water to remove dirt and impurities from the harvest.
3. Combine 100g of the cleaned leaves with 500ml of high proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 4 to 6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.

2. Aloe vera

Aloe tinctures helps with nail fungus because of its antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

The gel-like substance in aloe vera contains compounds like aloin and acemannan, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause nail infections. When applied topically or taken internally as a supplement, these compounds work together to combat fungal overgrowth, promoting healthy nail growth and helping to eliminate existing infections.

This natural remedy provides an effective alternative to harsh chemicals and pharmaceutical treatments for nail fungus sufferers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera tinctures that help with nail fungus.

• Alkaloids: The alkaloids present in Aloe vera, such as aloin and aloe-emodin, exhibit antimicrobial properties that can help inhibit the growth of fungi responsible for nail fungus.
• Phenolics: Phenolic compounds like cinnamic acid and ferulic acid in Aloe vera have been shown to possess antifungal properties, which can aid in combating nail fungus infections.
• Acemannan: Acemannan, a polysaccharide constituent of Aloe vera, has been found to stimulate the immune system, promoting a more effective defense against fungal infections and potentially aiding in the treatment of nail fungus.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make tinctures for nail fungus.

• Leaves: Rich in aloe-emodin and aloin, which have antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help combat nail fungus.
• Seeds: Contain aloin, a compound with antifungal properties that can be extracted to create a tincture for treating nail fungus.
• Roots: Contain compounds like aloe-emodin and aloin, which have antifungal and antibacterial properties that can help treat nail fungus.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 100 grams of fresh aloe vera leaves and chop them into small pieces using a sharp knife.
2. Combine the chopped aloe vera pieces with 500 milliliters of 95 percent ethanol in a glass jar.
3. Allow the mixture to steep for 2 to 3 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking.
4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth into another container and discard the solids immediately.
5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store it in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

3. Salvia officinalis

Sage tinctures helps with nail fungus because of its potent antifungal properties, which work to combat the underlying infection causing discoloration and brittleness.

The tannins and flavonoids present in sage extract have been shown to inhibit fungal growth, promoting healthy nail development and strengthening the nail bed. Additionally, sage's anti-inflammatory properties help reduce redness and discomfort associated with nail fungus, allowing for a more effective treatment plan.

By incorporating sage tinctures into your daily routine, you can support a healthy nail environment and promote a fungus-free outcome.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Rosmarinic acid: A phenolic compound with antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which can help inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens causing nail fungus.
• Salvianolic acid: A phenolic compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with nail fungus.
• Ursolic acid: A triterpenoid compound with antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which can help inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens and reduce inflammation in the nail bed.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of sage used to make tinctures for nail fungus.

• Leaves: They are used to make tinctures for nail fungus due to their antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
• Flowers: They contain compounds that exhibit antifungal activity, making them useful in treating nail fungus.
• Stems: They also contain antimicrobial compounds that help in inhibiting the growth of fungi, making them a suitable option for nail fungus tinctures.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 250 grams of fresh salvia officinalis leaves and 750 ml of high-proof vodka for tincture preparation.
2. Chop the salvia officinalis leaves into small pieces to increase surface area for extraction.
3. Combine the chopped salvia officinalis with vodka in a glass jar and store in a cool dark place for 2 weeks.
4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another container to remove plant material.
5. Transfer the tincture to dark glass bottles and store them in a cool dark place for up to 2 years.

4. Melaleuca alternifolia

Tea tree tinctures helps with nail fungus because its potent antifungal properties can effectively target and eliminate fungal infections that cause discoloration, brittleness, and crumbling of the nails.

The tannins present in tea tree oil have a unique ability to penetrate deep into the nail bed, breaking down and dissolving fungal hyphae, thereby promoting healthy nail growth and clearing up existing infections.

Additionally, tea tree tinctures' antibacterial properties also help combat bacterial infections that can exacerbate nail fungus, making it an effective natural solution for treating this common condition.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Cineole: This terpene helps with nail fungus by its antimicrobial and antifungal properties, which inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens such as Trichophyton and Candida.
• Cymene: This terpene has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help to reduce fungal infections and prevent the spread of nail fungus.
• Terpinen-4-ol: This terpene is known for its potent antifungal activity, which targets the cell membrane of fungal pathogens, ultimately leading to their death and helping to alleviate nail fungus symptoms.

Parts Used

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

• Leaves: The leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia contain compounds that have antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making them effective in treating nail fungus.
• Barks: The barks of Melaleuca alternifolia are rich in terpenoids, which have antifungal and antibacterial properties, helping to combat nail fungus.
• Stems: The stems of Melaleuca alternifolia contain essential oils that have antifungal and antimicrobial properties, which can be used to treat nail fungus.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 30-40 parts of fresh melaleuca alternifolia leaves and stems in the early morning to ensure optimal essential oil content.
2. Dry the harvested plant material in a well-ventilated area for 7-10 days or until it reaches a moisture content of 10-15 percent.
3. Combine 200 grams of the dried plant material with 500 milliliters of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
4. Steep the mixture for 2-3 weeks in a cool dark place, shaking the jar every 2-3 days, to allow for efficient extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a separate container, discarding the solids and preserving the resulting tincture in a cool dark place.

5. Calendula officinalis

Pot marigold tinctures helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal properties, which are derived from the plant's bioactive compounds.

The tincture's ability to penetrate deep into the nail bed and surrounding tissue allows it to target fungal infections directly, disrupting their growth and eliminating symptoms such as discoloration, brittleness, and thickening.

Additionally, pot marigold's anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce discomfort and promote a healthy environment for nail regrowth.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Saponins: Saponins in Calendula help combat nail fungus by disrupting the cell membrane of fungal pathogens, ultimately leading to their death and preventing further infection.
• Phenolic acids: The phenolic compounds in Calendula exhibit antifungal properties, inhibiting the growth of fungal pathogens that cause nail fungus, and also possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties to aid in recovery.
• Terpenes: Terpenes in Calendula exhibit antifungal activity by interfering with the cell membrane of fungal pathogens, inhibiting their growth and preventing the spread of infection, while also providing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Parts Used

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

• Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds, such as triterpenoids and carotenoids, which have antifungal properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are also used in tincture production, containing saponins and flavonoids that contribute to their antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Stems: The stems of Calendula officinalis contain flavonoids and carotenoids, which may help combat fungal infections and promote healthy nail growth.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 100g of fresh calendula officinalis flowers in the morning after dew has evaporated for optimal potency.
2. Clean and dry the flowers thoroughly using a food dehydrator or a low-temperature oven at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 1 hour.
3. Combine the dried flowers with 500ml of vodka 80 proof in a clean glass jar with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place shaking the jar daily with gentle force.
5. Strain the liquid through cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another glass container discarding the solids and label the tincture.

6. Urtica dioica

Stinging nettle tinctures helps with nail fungus because of its natural antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

The tannins and saponins present in stinging nettle extracts have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi, including those that cause nail infections. Additionally, the anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce swelling and redness associated with fungal infections, promoting a healthy environment for new nail growth.

This natural remedy can be used topically or taken orally, making it a convenient and effective treatment option for those suffering from nail fungus.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Urtica dioica tinctures that help with nail fungus.

• Stylopside: Stylopside has antifungal properties, helping to inhibit the growth and spread of nail fungus-causing organisms.
• Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, exhibits antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, reducing fungal infections and alleviating symptoms associated with nail fungus.
• Isorhapontigenin: Isorhapontigenin, a stilbenoid phenolic compound, has been shown to possess antifungal activity, which helps to combat fungal infections and promote healthy nail growth.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of stinging nettle used to make tinctures for nail fungus.

• Leaves: The leaves of Urtica dioica are commonly used to make tinctures for nail fungus due to their high content of ursolic acid, which has antifungal properties.
• Roots: The roots of Urtica dioica are used to make tinctures for nail fungus due to their ability to stimulate the immune system and promote healing.
• Stems: The stems of Urtica dioica are used to make tinctures for nail fungus due to their content of urticine, which has been shown to have antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest 1-2 pounds of fresh leaves and stems of urtica dioica early in the morning when they are at their highest potency.
2. Chop the harvested plant material into small pieces to release their essential oils and active compounds.
3. Combine the chopped plant material with 80-100 proof vodka in a 1:2 or 1:3 ratio of plant to solvent for a strong tincture.
4. Steep the mixture in a clean glass jar for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into a clean glass bottle and discard the solids.

7. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion tinctures helps with nail fungus because of its antimicrobial properties, which inhibit the growth of fungal cells that cause infection.

The tannins present in dandelion also help to reduce inflammation and promote a healthy environment for the nail to grow. Additionally, dandelion's antioxidant properties help to combat oxidative stress, which can contribute to nail damage and discoloration caused by fungus.

As a result, dandelion tinctures can help to alleviate symptoms of nail fungus such as thickening, brittleness, and yellowing.

Medicinal Constituents

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

• Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Taraxacum officinale, such as quercetin, have antifungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungi causing nail fungus, thereby promoting healthy nail growth.
• Saponins: Saponins in Taraxacum officinale have antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help to combat the fungal infection causing nail fungus and reduce inflammation in the affected area.
• Alkanes: Squalene, an alkanes constituent in Taraxacum officinale, has been shown to have antifungal activity against various fungi, including those causing nail fungus, by disrupting their cell membranes and inhibiting their growth.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for nail fungus.

• Leaves: The leaves of Taraxacum officinale are commonly used to make tinctures for nail fungus due to their antifungal properties.
• Roots: The roots are used to make tinctures for nail fungus because they contain compounds that exhibit antifungal activity.
• Flowers: The flowers of Taraxacum officinale are also used to make tinctures for nail fungus, likely due to their bioactive compounds with antifungal properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 250 grams of fresh taraxacum officinale roots and leaves in equal portions.
2. Chop the taraxacum officinale mixture finely to facilitate extraction of active compounds.
3. Combine the chopped taraxacum officinale mixture with 750 milliliters of 80 proof vodka in a glass container.
4. Steep the taraxacum officinale mixture in the vodka for 2 weeks in a cool dark place.
5. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain a clear tincture.

8. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Licorice tinctures helps with nail fungus because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.

The triterpenoids present in licorice root, such as glycyrrhizin and glabridin, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause nail infections. Additionally, licorice's anti-inflammatory compounds can reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort associated with fungal nail infections.

By applying a topical herbal licorice tincture to the affected nail, individuals may be able to promote healthy nail growth and alleviate symptoms of nail fungus.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures that help with nail fungus.

• Licorice saponins: These triterpenoid saponins have antifungal properties, which can inhibit the growth of fungi causing nail infections.
• Glycyrrhetic acid: This triterpenoid compound has been shown to exhibit antifungal and antibacterial properties, which can help to combat fungal infections and promote healthy nail growth.
• Flavonoids: Specifically, glycosides like licoric acid and licoroside A have been found to possess antifungal and antioxidant activities, which can contribute to the prevention and treatment of nail fungus.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of licorice used to make tinctures for nail fungus.

• Roots: The roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for nail fungus because they contain glycyrrhizin, a compound with antifungal properties.
• Barks: The barks of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for nail fungus because they have been traditionally used in herbal medicine to treat various infections, including fungal infections.
• Leaves: The leaves of Glycyrrhiza glabra are used to make tinctures for nail fungus because they contain flavonoids and phenolic compounds with antimicrobial and antifungal properties.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Gather 250 grams of dried glycyrrhiza glabra roots and 500 milliliters of high-proof vodka as ingredients.
2. Chop the roots into small pieces and place them in a clean glass jar.
3. Pour the vodka over the roots ensuring they are completely submerged and seal the jar.
4. Store the jar in a cool dark place for 6 to 8 weeks shaking it every few days.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids and label the tincture.

9. Vaccinium myrtillus

Blueberry tinctures helps with nail fungus because of its potent antifungal properties.

The anthocyanins and phenolic acids present in blueberries have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal spores, reducing the severity of symptoms such as discoloration, thickening, and brittleness.

Additionally, blueberry's anti-inflammatory compounds help to reduce swelling and promote healthy blood flow to the nail bed, creating a conducive environment for nail growth and recovery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium myrtillus tinctures that help with nail fungus.

• Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help combat fungal infections by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the nail bed, creating an unfavorable environment for fungal growth.
• Quercetin: This flavonoid has anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which help suppress the growth of fungal pathogens and alleviate symptoms associated with nail fungus, such as redness and swelling.
• Epicatechin: This flavonoid has been shown to exhibit anti-fungal activity by inhibiting the production of fungal toxins and preventing the formation of fungal biofilms, which contribute to the development and persistence of nail fungus.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of blueberry used to make tinctures for nail fungus.

• Leaves: They contain high levels of anthocyanins and other compounds that have been shown to have antifungal properties, which help combat nail fungus.
• Barks: The barks contain tannins and other compounds that have been traditionally used to treat fungal infections, including nail fungus.
• Fruits: The fruits, particularly the berries, contain anthocyanins and other antioxidants that may help to reduce inflammation and combat fungal infections.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Collect fresh or dried vaccinium myrtillus leaves and flowers in a clean paper bag with a 1 part herb to 2 parts plant material ratio.
2. Cut the leaves and flowers into small pieces with scissors or a sharp knife to increase the surface area.
3. Combine the prepared vaccinium myrtillus with 60 to 80 percent vodka in a glass jar with a 1 part herb to 5 parts solvent ratio.
4. Store the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate the extraction process.
5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle to separate the solvent from the solids.

10. Equisetum arvense

Field horsetail tinctures helps with nail fungus because of its potent antifungal properties, which can effectively combat fungal infections that cause discoloration, brittleness, and thickening of the nails.

The tannins present in field horsetail also help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy tissue growth around the affected area.

Additionally, the bioactive compounds in the tincture may improve blood circulation, allowing for a more efficient delivery of oxygen and nutrients to the nail bed, promoting a stronger and healthier nail overall.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Equisetum arvense tinctures that help with nail fungus.

• Sesquiterpene lactones: These compounds have antifungal properties, which help combat fungal infections that cause nail fungus.
• Polysaccharides and flavonoids: These constituents have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress that can contribute to nail fungus development and progression.
• Caffeic acid and ferulic acid: These compounds have antimicrobial and antifungal properties, inhibiting the growth of fungi that cause nail infections.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of field horsetail used to make tinctures for nail fungus.

• Roots: Used due to their high concentration of antifungal compounds, which can help combat fungal infections.
• Leaves: Employed for their potential antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in soothing and treating nail fungus.

Quick Recipe

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

1. Harvest fresh equisetum arvense rhizomes and roots in early spring or autumn when the plant is dormant.
2. Clean the harvested plant material with water to remove any debris or dirt thoroughly.
3. Chop the cleaned plant material into small pieces and measure out a dosage of 1 part plant to 2 parts solvent.
4. Combine the chopped plant material with 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar and let it steep for 2-6 weeks.
5. Strain the liquid mixture through cheesecloth and discard the solids then bottle the tincture for storage.

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

The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with nail fungus is a blend of Tea Tree oil, Oregano oil, and Garlic oil.

Tea Tree oil's antifungal properties combat fungal growth, while Oregano oil's antiseptic properties help to reduce inflammation. Garlic oil's antibacterial properties aid in the healing process and prevent future infections. This combination can be applied topically to the affected nail and surrounding skin to promote healthy nail growth and combat fungal infections.

Consistency and patience are key to successful treatment.

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

Ailments similar to nail fungus that are treated with herbal tinctures are fungal infections such as athlete's foot, ringworm, and jock itch.

Herbal tinctures containing ingredients like tea tree oil, oregano oil, and berberine have antifungal properties that can help treat these conditions by inhibiting fungal growth and promoting healing.

These natural remedies can provide an effective alternative to conventional medications and are often well-tolerated with minimal side effects.