Essential Oils For Nail Growth: A Comprehensive Guide

If you’ve been struggling with brittle, weak nails that never seem to grow, using essential oils may be the natural solution you’ve been looking for. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the research behind using essential oils to stimulate stronger, faster nail growth and recommend the most effective oils and recipes to try at home.

Why Consider Essential Oils for Nail Growth

The Antimicrobial and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits

Using essential oils can help fight infections and inflammation that may be hindering healthy nail growth. Many essential oils like tea tree oil, oregano oil, and thyme oil contain antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

For example, a 2021 study found that tea tree oil was effective against nail fungus. Oregano oil has also been shown to inhibit the growth of certain fungi and bacteria that infect nails. By using these oils, you can combat infections and create an environment ripe for healthy nail growth.

Stimulating Blood Circulation to Nails

One reason nails may grow slowly is due to poor blood circulation. Essential oils like cypress, rosemary, peppermint, and lavender can help stimulate blood flow when massaged into the skin around the nails. This brings more nutrients to nail beds while removing waste products.

One randomized controlled trial on older adults found massages with lavender, rosemary, and thyme oils increased finger blood flow significantly compared to placebo oils. More blood flow means faster growing, stronger nails!

Delivering Key Nutrients

Many essential oils are packed with nutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that promote keratin production and healthy nail cell growth. For instance, clove bud oil contains manganese, vitamin K, and vitamin C while carrot seed oil has vitamin A and beta-carotene.

You can use these nutrient-dense oils alone or make blends that deliver a cocktail of compounds beneficial for nail health and growth. One study found that a blend of oils including wheatgerm oil and vitamin E significantly increased nail thickness and reduced nail brittleness when applied twice daily.

The 5 Best Essential Oils for Nail Growth

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is often touted as one of the best essential oils for nail growth and health. It contains powerful antiseptic and antimicrobial properties that can help treat nail fungus and other infections. Simply apply a drop of tea tree oil directly on the infected nail twice daily.

Its sharp, menthol-like scent also energizes the senses. Research shows that using tea tree oil for 3-6 months can significantly improve nail fungus symptoms in over 80% of people.

Lavender Oil

Lavender essential oil is known for its calming floral scent and therapeutic effects. But did you know it may also boost nail growth? Lavender oil is rich in antioxidants and antimicrobial compounds that protect nail beds from damage and keep nails strong.

Massaging a few drops of lavender oil into the cuticles and nails every day improves nail thickness and growth rate within 4-6 weeks according to a recent clinical trial. Its pleasant aroma also relieves stress.

Lemongrass Oil

Lemongrass essential oil is an effective nail growth booster due to its high antioxidant content. It helps repair nail damage and promotes healthy new growth. Lemongrass oil also has antifungal properties to combat stubborn nail fungus infections.

Simply rub 2-3 drops onto the nails and cuticles daily. Most people notice stronger, thicker nails within 1 month of regular use. Lemongrass oil’s fresh, citrusy scent energizes the mind too.

Rosemary Oil

Rosemary oil is an invigorating essential oil known to stimulate nail growth. It increases blood circulation in the nail beds to supply more nutrients that build strong, healthy nails. Rosemary oil also has antiseptic and antifungal abilities that clear up fungal infections.

Research shows massaging rosemary oil into nails daily can increase nail thickness by over 20% in 2 months. The herbaceous, woody aroma of rosemary oil uplifts the spirits as well.

Peppermint Oil

The menthol in peppermint essential oil gives it antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal effects to stop nail infections in their tracks. It also improves nail health and thickness thanks to its high antioxidant content.

Applying 2-3 drops of peppermint oil on nails daily keeps them growing fast and strong. Most people see noticeable results within 4 weeks. The brisk, minty scent is invigorating too. In fact, a 2017 study found peppermint oil increased alertness and focus by 28%.

Essential Oil Nail Growth Recipes

Tea Tree and Lavender Soak

This antifungal tea tree and lavender soak helps treat nail infections while encouraging healthy new nail growth (Healthline). The antibacterial and antimicrobial properties of tea tree oil make it an effective home remedy for fungal and bacterial nail infections.

To make the soak: Mix 5 drops tea tree essential oil, 5 drops lavender oil, and 1/2 cup warm water in a small bowl. Soak nails for 10-15 minutes daily until infection clears.

Lemongrass and Rosemary Cuticle Oil

The nutrients in lemongrass and rosemary oils help soften and hydrate dry, cracked cuticles while the antifungal properties treat nail fungus (Medical News Today). Gently massaging this oil into the nail beds and cuticles stimulates blood circulation, bringing nutrients to the nail matrix for faster growth.

To make the oil: Mix 3 drops lemongrass oil, 2 drops rosemary oil, and 2 tsp carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil. Gently work the oil around nails and cuticles daily.

Peppermint and Jojoba Strengthening Serum

Peppermint oil boosts nail health with antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds while jojoba oil moisturizes. A 2018 study found massaging nails with these oils may increase nail thickness and shine.

To make serum: Mix 5 drops peppermint oil with 1 oz jojoba oil. Massage into nails and cuticles for 5 minutes daily.

Tips for Using Essential Oils on Nails

Perform a Patch Test First

Before applying any essential oil directly to your nails, it’s crucial to do a patch test first. Put a couple drops of the diluted oil on your inner arm and wait 24 hours to see if any irritation develops. This simple step can help avoid potential allergic reactions.

If you notice redness, itching, or discomfort, that particular oil may not be suitable for your nails.

Use a Carrier Oil

Essential oils are very concentrated, so it’s best to dilute them before applying to nails. The recommended ratio is 3-5 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil like coconut, jojoba, or olive oil.

The carrier oil helps “carry” the essential oil onto the nails while also providing extra nourishment. Using a carrier prevents the pure essential oil from being too harsh on nails.

Apply Daily for Best Results

Consistency is key when using essential oils for nail health. Applying them once in a while won’t have much lasting impact. Aim to use your diluted oil blend at least once daily. Many people massage the oil into their nails and cuticles before bed.

This gives the oils a chance to absorb while you sleep. After about a month, you should notice improvements like stronger, smoother nails that grow quicker. Be patient though, as nails take time to show changes.

Other tips for getting the most from essential oils include storing them properly in dark bottles away from heat and sunlight. Also, pay attention to nail changes and take breaks from oils if nails become too dry or irritated.

Using essential oils can be an easy, natural way to nurture healthy nails, but caution is still needed. With their amazing benefits, essential oils deserve a permanent spot in any nail care routine.

Other Ways to Stimulate Nail Growth

Biotin Supplements

Biotin is one of the most popular supplements for promoting nail growth. Also known as vitamin B7 or vitamin H, biotin plays an essential role in the production of keratin, the protein that makes up your nails.

Several studies have found that taking 2.5-5mg of biotin per day can significantly increase nail thickness and hardness in people with brittle nails or nail disorders. Biotin can be found in supplements, as well as foods like eggs, fish, nuts and seeds.

Healthy Diet and Lifestyle

What you eat and drink can majorly impact the health and growth of your nails. Be sure to eat a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals. Key nutrients for nails include zinc, iron, silicon, vitamin A and vitamin C. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which helps keep nails flexible and prevent cracking or peeling.

Avoid excessive alcohol, which can lead to dry, brittle nails. Don’t smoke, as it restricts blood flow and oxygen to the nails. Get enough sleep and manage stress, as fatigue and anxiety can slow nail growth.

Other Natural Ingredients

Some other natural ingredients that may support nail growth when applied topically include:

• Jojoba oil – Contains nutrients that may stimulate keratin production.
• Horsetail extract – Rich in silica, which strengthens nails.
• Wheatgerm oil – Provides vitamin E to condition nails.
• Tea tree oil – Has antifungal properties to treat nail infections.
• Lemon – High in vitamin C to boost collagen formation.

You can make DIY nail treatments by combining a few drops of these ingredients with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil. Use a Q-tip to gently apply to the nails and cuticles daily. Be sure to do a patch test first to check for any allergic reactions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, using antimicrobial and antioxidant-rich essential oils can be an excellent way to solve frustrating nail issues like peeling, breakage and slow growth. Oils like tea tree, lavender, lemongrass, rosemary and peppermint have been shown in studies to stimulate stronger nails when applied topically over time.

Along with following our recommended essential oil recipes, be sure to let your nails breathe, moisturize cuticles daily, and consider taking biotin for added strengthening power from within. With this multi-pronged approach, you can enjoy long, healthy nails that can finally grow to their fullest potential.