7 Home Remedies To Treat Nail Infection

A nail infection occurs when fungi, bacteria, or yeast invade the nail or the surrounding skin. It can affect both fingernails and toenails, though it's more common in toenails due to moisture and confined footwear. The infection can lead to symptoms such as discoloration, thickening, brittleness, pain, and even nail separation in severe cases.

The most common type is fungal nail infection (onychomycosis), usually caused by dermatophytes. Other types include bacterial infections, which often happen after an injury or excessive moisture exposure, and yeast infections, commonly affecting the skin around the nails.

Poor hygiene, damp environments, tight shoes, nail trauma, or underlying health conditions like diabetes can increase the risk. While nail infections are often slow to develop, they can be persistent and may require consistent treatment. Early care with home remedies or medical treatments can help prevent the infection from spreading or becoming chronic.

# Tea Tree Oil

Why it works: Natural antifungal and antibacterial.

How to use:

Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil).

Apply to the infected nail twice daily using a cotton swab.

# Garlic

Why it works: Contains allicin, a strong antimicrobial compound.

How to use:

Crush a clove of garlic and apply the paste on the nail.

Leave it for 30 minutes, then rinse. Repeat once a day.

# Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

Why it works: Balances pH and has antifungal properties.

How to use:

Mix equal parts ACV and warm water.

Soak your affected nails for 20 minutes daily.

# Baking Soda

Why it works: Prevents fungus from spreading by neutralizing pH.

How to use:

Make a paste using baking soda and water.

Apply to the nail, let sit for 10–15 minutes, and rinse.

Do this once or twice a day.

# Coconut Oil

Why it works: Antifungal and moisturizing.

How to use:

Warm a bit of virgin coconut oil and apply to the infected nail.

Massage it in 2–3 times a day.

# Hydrogen Peroxide

Why it works: Disinfects and kills fungus.

How to use:

Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with water (1:1).

Soak nails for 10–15 minutes daily.

# Neem Oil

Why it works: Powerful antifungal and healing agent.

How to use:

Apply a few drops to the infected nail twice a day.