Forget That Ringworm Itch With These 7 Natural Remedies

March 8, 2015

A misnomer for many, ringworm isn’t actually caused by a worm—it’s cause by fungus. Marked by a typical ring-like appearance on the skin, this fungal infection is highly contagious and is not just limited to the skin but the scalp and nails, too. While the symptoms may vary depending on the type of ringworm and the affected area, common symptoms include itchy, raised and red scaly patches that have a typical ring-like appearance.

If not treated on time, ringworm can spread throughout the body and cause complications. Certain natural remedies have been used for centuries to treat this skin infection. Here, we list seven of them.

1. Tea Tree Oil
One of the best-known remedies for ringworm, tea tree essential oil works particularly well for ringworm affecting the feet. The antiseptic and anti-fungal properties of tea tree oil decrease the infection effectively. Make sure you use 100 percent pure tea tree oil to treat your ringworm. Soak a cotton ball in tea tree oil. Squeeze out excess oil and apply this on a clean dry ringworm patch. You can use this three to four times a day. (Related Article: The Essential Oils For Acne-Prone Skin)

2. Garlic
With all the goodness it has to offer, garlic is also effective against ringworm patches. It contains the anti-fungal component ajoene which works against the Tinea fungus that causes ringworm. Make a thin paste using about three to four garlic cloves and apply this directly over the ringworm. You can add a few drops of olive oil and honey for added benefits. (Related Article: Fast Five: Surprising Uses Of Garlic)

3. Aloe Vera
An all-natural remedy for a variety of skin problems, the soothing properties of aloe vera are effective against ringworm, too. Aloe vera also has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that promote healing and remove any scars that might be left behind by the ringworm. You can apply fresh aloe vera gel directly on the ringworm. (Related Article: Beauty Elixir: DIYs With Aloe Vera)

4. Turmeric
Turmeric has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antibiotic properties. Use fresh turmeric juice, a paste of turmeric powder or some turmeric oil on your ringworm to kill the infection. (Related Article: A Turmeric Fix For All Your Skin Problems)

5. Goldenseal
Along with its astringent nature, goldenseal also exhibits anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and anti-fungal properties. This herb will help curb the infection from its root and prevent its spread. You can steep a tea by boiling 3tsp of dried goldenseal in one cup of boiling water. Strain the liquid and, once cooled, soak a cotton ball and apply to the infected area. If you’re prone to catching ringworm infection on your feet, sprinkle some goldenseal powder on the insides of your socks.

6. Coconut Oil
The healing and soothing properties of coconut oil can help you get rid of the itch that is an inescapable part of a ringworm infection. Popularly used for treating scalp ringworm, you can massage your scalp with coconut oil and leave it on overnight. For skin infections, you can directly apply coconut oil on the affected area. (Related Article: 4 Ways To Use Coconut Oil For Natural Health)

7. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apart from appetizing your salads and enhancing your immune system, apple cider vinegar can also treat fungal skin infections such as ringworm. Apply a cotton swab dipped in apple cider vinegar to your ringworm two to three times a day to eliminate them completely. Make sure to use undiluted apple cider vinegar for better results.

While these remedies will help you get rid of the ringworm on your skin or scalp, you can also prevent the infection by taking good care of your skin and scalp. Keep your skin clean and dry at all times, shampoo at least twice a week, and wash hands after handling pets or pet products.