What is a Ringworm?
Ringworm is not caused by a worm or any type of living parasite. Instead, it’s a skin condition that’s caused by a type of fungus called tinea.
Thus Ringworm is also known as tinea infection, a fungal infection which is contagious, that can be passed without even having any actual physical contact with an infected person.
It lives on the dead tissues of the skin, including your nails and hair.
The infection is characterized by a red or silvery ring-like rash with a clear center. The rash is usually itchy, inflamed and scaly.
Ringworm spreads and is grows in the form of rings, causing a single patch or several overlapping patches to develop on your skin.
Different Types of Ringworms Characterized by the Area of the Body It Affects
- Tinea Corporis – Ringworm of the skin on the body
- Tinea Capitis – Ringworm of the scalp
- Tinea Pedis, known as Athlete’s Foot – Ringworm of the feet
- Tinea Cruris or Jock Itch – Ringworm of the groin.
Home Remedies and Treatment for Ringworm (Natural Remedies)
Treating Ringworm with Colloidal Silver
Studies have shown that colloidal silver has potent antifungal abilities and is a powerful natural antibiotic. It is a great option when it comes to natural remedies to treat ringworm.
Keep the area as clean as possible at all times. You can wash the affected area with water and antibacterial soap before applying other home remedies.
Spray some colloidal silver on the affected area and let it dry. Repeat the process two to three times a day until the infection goes away completely.
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) ~ Best Home Remedy
Apple cider vinegar is loaded with natural acids, probiotics and strong antifungal properties that have been shown to help fight fungal infections. ACV can help treat ringworm when applied topically to the affected area.
To use it, soak a cotton ball in undiluted apple cider vinegar and dab gently the cotton ball over your ringworm area on your skin. Do this two-three times per day until the ringworm clears up.
Tea Tree Essential Oil
Tea tree oil acts as a powerful antifungal and antibacterial to kill the fungus causing ringworm. Tea tree oil is non-toxic and can be applied directly to the rash. It can be extremely effective in treating fungal skin infections.
Apply tea tree oil directly to the affected area two or three times per day with a cotton ball or swab and let it dry. You don’t need to wash it off.
If you have sensitive skin, it may be helpful to dilute the tea tree oil in a carrier oil like coconut oil, which has its own antifungal benefits.
Oregano Oil to Treat Ringworms
Oregano essential oil has powerful components such as carvacrol, have been shown in studies to have impressive antifungal powers.
Oregano oil is can be bought online or at stores. Since oregano oil is very strong, you need to mix a few drops with a carrier oil like olive or coconut oil and apply it to the affected area 2-3 times a day. A drop or two of the oil is sufficient to top the area of ringworm.
Use Aloe vera to Treat Ringworms
Aloe vera has antifungal, antibacterial and anti-inflammation properties and is used as a natural remedy for both bacterial and fungal infections, and ringworm is no exception.
Aloe vera can treat the ringworm and may soothe symptoms of itchiness, inflammation, and discomfort. Natural Aloe vera or Aloe vera gel anything can be used to put on the affected skin.
Over the Counter (OTC) Treatment for Ringworms (Conventional)
Over-the-counter ringworm treatment is typically the first approach for conventional ringworm treatments.
While all-natural ingredients are great, sometimes little stronger. OTC antifungal topical remedies are available and effective for mild cases of ringworm.
Look for the active ingredients clotrimazole and terbinafine. You can apply these ointments twice per day.
Tips to Prevent Ringworms
According to Mayo Clinic, these are some of the best ways to prevent ringworm.
- Get in a habit of not sharing towels, clothing or other personal items with others.
- To avoid excessive sweating, avoid wearing thick, unbreathable clothing for long periods of time, especially in humid environments.
- Avoid animals infected with ringworm.
- Educate yourself and your children about how to avoid ringworm.
- Alcohol-based hand sanitizer can also be used for rubbing alcohol to treat ringworm.
- Keep your hands as well as shared spaces clean. Shared spaces to focus on including those in child care centers and locker rooms.
I’m Rhea, a fitness enthusiast, and a food lover. I am a housemaker, foodie, writer from NYC. I am a passionate writer and I love exploring places. Since I love cooking and working out, I am sharing my organic food recipes, fitness and beauty tips with the world. Trying to touch lives with some useful information.
