Ingrown toenails are a foot issue that is common. The condition occurs when the side of the nail grows in an inward direction and cuts into the skin.
The most common causes are related to wearing shoes that are too tight, cutting the nails incorrectly, injuries and, genes. This is usually followed by redness, pain, swelling, and in some cases even an infection. You may not have realized that using an essential oil for ingrown toenail problems can be an effective cure.
Here is a list of popular essential oils that can be used to treat an ingrown toenail:
White Flower Oil
This traditional Chinese healing oil consists of a variety of herbal oils. Using a few drops directly on an ingrown toenail can assist with healing this ailment.
Oregano Essential Oil
The antiseptic and antibacterial activities of this important oil make it an effective pain reliever. However, in concentrated form, it can become a skin irritant, which is why it is important to first dilute the oil in a carrier oil before applying.
Essential Oil For Ingrown Toenail Infections
Here is a step-by-step guide on treating an infection caused by an ingrown toenail:
Tea Tree Oil
Combine one cup of Epsom salts and five drops of Tea Tree essential oil into warm water. Soak the feet in the solution for at least 20 minutes. This will help to relieve pain and swelling. Dry the feet with a clean and dry towel.
Thieves Essential Oil
Thieves essential oil is a blend of essential oils which is well-known for treating infections. This oil is effective in supporting good health and the immune system. Apply 1 undiluted drop onto the infected area of the ingrown toenail. If possible gently pull the skin away from the nail to allow the oil to penetrate between the skin and the nail.
Thieves essential oil is produced by Young Living and is a blend that has been formulated with eucalyptus, lemon, rosemary, cinnamon bark, and pure clove essential oils. This unique formulation assists with alleviating pain and minor aches. It also has numbing properties which are effective in relieving the swelling an pain of an ingrown toenail.
Frankincense Essential Oil
Before going to bed, apply a few drops of a good quality Frankincense essential oil onto a cotton pad or ball. This important oil can help to speed up the healing process. This oil is also known for helping the muscles to relax, supporting the immune system and to promote better sleep.
Children’s Ingrown Toenails
To treat an ingrown toenail in a child, it is possible to use all the essential oils mentioned above. However, it is recommended to use these oils with a carrier rather than using them without dilution. Popular carrier oils to use include extra virgin olive or coconut oil.
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows inwardly and into the person’s skin. The nail then becomes logged inside the skin. It is the skin that becomes painful, and if left untreated can become very infected. One of the best ways to prevent this common issue is to cut the toenails straight and to avoid wearing footwear that is too tight.