The most obvious symptom of having toenail fungus is nail discoloration. Most of the time the nails become brownish or whitish-yellow. When the infection spreads to the other toes, the discoloration also progresses to the other toes. If the infection is not given any treatment, the nail can thicken and eventually crack in some cases.
There are usual antifungal medications that doctors often prescribe. These are itraconazole (Sporanox), fluconazole (Diflucan), and terbinafine (Lamisil). These medications are not without side effects. The best alternatives to these medications are home remedies, and essential oils are one of them.
1Essential Oils and Carrier Oils
Many essential oils contain antifungal properties, but one of the most popular and recommended by many is the clove essential oil or Syzygium aromaticum. The thing with essential oils is that they have to be diluted in a carrier oil before they must touch the human skin. These oils must not also be swallowed. Clove essential oil may go with any of the following carrier oils: argan oil, coconut oil, almond oil, grapeseed oil, peach kernel oil, rosehip oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, black seed oil, and apricot kernel oil.
After blending the clove essential oil with a carrier oil, these steps have to be taken: Wash the feet, toes, and toenails with warm water and soap. Wipe it with a towel to dry. Apply one drop or two of the essential oil on the affected toenail. Let the oil soak into the toenail for 10 minutes. Scrub the toenail with a soft brush. Repeat this every day until the infected toenail is replaced with a fresh and healthy one. This may take months to happen.
