Natural Remedy For Ringworm – 9 Effective Solutions
Ringworm is a common fungal infection that’s not actually caused by a worm as its name might suggest. A highly contagious fungus known as Tinea is what causes it. Anybody can get ringworm, but some people are more susceptible than others such as young children and people whose immunity is compromised.
Numerous medications are available to treat ringworm, but natural treatments can also be incredibly effective. If you are looking for an effective natural remedy for ringworm, you will find 9 of the most effective options below:
Natural Remedy for Ringworm – 9 Effective Options
- Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is an effective remedy against various fungal infections including Candida and Ringworm. To use apple cider vinegar for treating ringworm, soak a cotton wool pad in undiluted vinegar and wipe it on the affected area. Repeat up to thrice daily.
- Garlic
Garlic can be used as a topical treatment for ringworm. It has been proven to be an effective remedy for various types of fungi. To use it as a treatment for ringworm, make a paste using crushed garlic cloves by blending it with some coconut or olive oil.
Apply a thin layer of the garlic paste to the affected skin and cover with gauze. Leave the paste in place for a couple of hours before rinsing. Repeat twice every day until symptoms resolve. If the paste causes redness, swelling, or stinging, rinse it off immediately and don’t reapply.
- Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains certain fatty acids that may kill fungal cells by damaging their cell membranes. According to research studies, coconut oil can be an effective remedy for those suffering from mild to moderate skin infections.
Coconut oil can be used to treat ringworm by applying it to the affected area 3 times daily. You can also use it as a moisturizing lotion, which can be a very effective way to prevent ringworm infection in the future.
- Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera contains 6 antiseptic agents that exhibit antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. To use Aloe Vera for treating ringworm, apply the gel from the plant onto a ringworm patch 3 or 4 times daily. The gel has cooling properties too, which means that it can be used for soothing swollen and itchy skin.
- Turmeric
Turmeric is a popular spice that’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric and is believed to be responsible for its health benefits. Numerous studies have detailed the extensive antimicrobial properties of turmeric.
To reap the benefits of turmeric, consume it as tea or add it to meals. If using it topically, mix it with a small amount of coconut oil or water until it forms a paste and then apply it to the affected area. Leave it to dry before you wipe it off.
Please note that turmeric can stain lighter skin a yellow color, but this usually fades away within a few days.
- Oregano Oil
Oregano oil comes from wild oregano and it contains carvacrol and thymol, which are both strong antifungals. Research shows that oregano oil can stop the growth of some fungi. If you plan to use oregano oil to treat ringworm always remember to dilute it with a carrier oil. Apply the oil to the affected area up to thrice daily.
- Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has been used by Native Australians as a remedy for numerous fungal and bacterial skin conditions. Today, tea tree oil is still a popular and effective treatment for ringworm.
To use tea tree oil to treat ringworm, make a 2 per cent dilution of tea tree oil by mixing 12 drops of the oil with 1 ounce of carrier oil such as coconut oil. Apply this to the affected area 3 times daily.
If you don’t have sensitive skin, you can apply the tea tree oil to the affected area directly without first diluting it.
- Powdered Licorice
Licorice is an herb that’s frequently used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It demonstrates anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties. It is also used as a home remedy for various fungal infections including ringworm.
For the best results, mix 3 tablespoons of powdered licorice root into 1 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, and allow it to simmer for 10 minutes. After the liquid cools, it should form a paste.
Apply the paste to the ringworm patch twice daily allowing it to sit for at least 10 minutes every time before you rinse or wipe it off.
- Grapefruit Seed Extract
Grapefruit seed extract can be an effective remedy for fungal infections. To use it to treat ringworm, mix 1 drop of grapefruit seed extract with 1 tablespoon of water and apply to the affected area of skin twice daily.
Final Thoughts
If you have been looking for the perfect natural remedy for ringworm, you now have 9 effective options to choose from. All you have to do is try out the various options to find the one that’s most effective for you.