Yes, ringworm causes the formation of itchy ring-like patches on the skin. No, it’s not caused by a worm. Also known in the medical world as dermatophytosis, ringworm is caused by fungi. The skin infection is transmitted from one person to the other via direct contact or through the use of contaminated items like clothes and pillows.
Antifungal creams and ointments are commonly prescribed by a doctor in order to have the itchy condition treated. There are also numerous home remedies available for it. Here are 13 of the best:
1. Garlic
Crush a garlic clove and rub it on the problem areas. This very simple remedy for ringworm works very well because garlic is a potent antifungal solution employed by traditional healers for so many years now.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
This staple entry in numerous home remedies is a powerful ringworm fighter too. Simple daub this sour liquid on those red and itchy rings. Dilute it with equal parts of water if you find it to be too strong for your sensitive skin.
3. Vinegar and Salt
No apple cider vinegar in sight? Fret not. Even your regular white vinegar may be used against ringworm. Simple add a few drops of it to salt and gently massage on those reddish spots on your skin using your fingertips.
4. Tea Tree Oil
Because of its amazing antifungal properties, you may count on tea tree oil to put an end to the skin condition. It’s a good idea to weaken tea tree oil with equal amounts of water to prevent skin irritation.
5. Turmeric
This very popular spice is also very good at putting an end to ringworm. All you have to do is make a paste out of it by adding a few drops of water to a teaspoon of turmeric. Apply liberally on the affected areas twice a day.
6. Aloe Vera
The vitamin E-rich gel in this plant is popularly used for dealing with skin aging signs such as fine lines, wrinkles and liver spots. The same gel may be daubed on ringworms to put an end to this fungal infection naturally.
7. Coconut Oil
Something as simple as massaging some coconut oil on ringworm can work wonders. This healthy oil is known to posses impressive antifungal properties, making it an excellent ringworm-buster.
8. Lavender Oil
If you are into essential oils, simply grab a bottle of lavender oil and massage a drop or two of it on your ringworm. Lavender oil’s superb antifungal properties make it highly effective against such itchy and embarrassing issue.
9. Colloidal Silver
Your medicine cabinet won’t be complete without a bottle of colloidal silver in it. This well-known versatile home remedy may be used to fight off ringworm simply by applying it on trouble spots up to twice daily.
10. Lemongrass Tea
Head to the local health food store and obtain some lemongrass tea if you want to attain healing from ringworm. Prepare according to instructions on the label and take thrice a day for a speedy relief from the skin condition.
11. Mustard Seeds
Soak a tablespoon of mustard seeds in water for at least half an hour. Afterwards, drain and use your favorite food processor to turn the seeds into a paste. Apply on ringworm to attain relief from the symptoms.
12. Oregano
Many swear by the effectiveness of oregano oil against itchy ringworm. If you don’t have oregano oil but you have the oregano plant in your garden, crush a leaf and apply the juice on the affected areas.
13. Camphor Oil
Popularly known as a decongestant and antispasmodic agent, camphor oil may also be used to treat ringworm. Simply apply on trouble spots so that you may take advantage of its potent antifungal properties.