Ringworm is a common and contagious skin infection most commonly caused by the fungus Trichophyton rubrum. The fungus thrives in warm, moist areas and can infect several areas of the skin from the scalp to the feet (where it’s known as athlete’s foot) to the groin (better known as “jock itch”) and everything in between. Ringworm infections generally result in red, itchy, scaly round patches on the skin, which are not only unsightly but can cause great discomfort.
Home remedies of ringworm
1. Garlic
Garlic is a bit of a wonder food. When ingested, garlic is known as a natural remedy for a host of health concerns. Garlic has been known to lessen the severity and duration of the common cold, naturally reduce blood pressure, and lower bad cholesterol among many other benefits. But garlic can also be used topically as a natural treatment for ringworm, which makes it the first in our list of home remedies for ringworm. It’s the naturally occurring chemical compounds allicin and ajoene that are found in garlic whose antibacterial and anti-fungal properties make it a powerhouse against skin infections like ringworm. In fact, one study found a topical ajoene cream more effective in treating athlete’s foot than a leading over-the-counter medicated cream.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Like garlic, apple cider vinegar (now increasingly referred to as ACV and a home remedy powerhouse) is known to have numerous health benefits. It has become a staple in most natural remedy medicine cabinets. We always keep a bottle of organic, raw apple cider vinegar with the mother on hand. Most of the health benefits of ACV are attributed to the acetic acid in the vinegar, which is known to effectively treat a range of skin concerns including ringworm due to its anti-fungal properties.
3. Tea Tree Oil
As it has been employed for decades by the Australians, this oil is a favorite ingredient for several cosmetics including shampoos and hair oils. In addition, it has a lengthy history of helping to treat cuts, burns, and infections.
4. Coconut Oil
The application of coconut oil for grey hair and treatment of other hair and scalp problems is well known. The healing properties found in coconut oil are extremely effective in treating ringworm infections. This is a simple ingredient which can be found in your home. The oil provides great relief from itchy skin while making the area smooth and soft. Coconut oil is also greatly used in treating scalp ring worms. You need to apply the oil on the affected area overnight. By doing this you will eliminate build-up and residue of the infection.
5. Mustard Seeds
Mustard seeds are tiny in size but they are great agents to cure ring worm. Soak the mustard seeds in water for 30 minutes and grind them to make a thick paste. The paste needs to be applied on the infected skin to provide relief from itching and irritation.
6. Turmeric
This simple spice we use in our daily life actually has some great natural antibiotic qualities. Turmeric, popularly known as the holy powder has several potent benefits. This remedy will help you get rid of all kinds of bacterial and fungal infections. Use fresh turmeric juice to apply on the affected areas with the help of a cotton ball. You need to apply it 3 times every day until your infection disappears.
7. Aloe Vera
The use of aloe vera hair mask for natural hair conditioning is extremely popular in beauty circles. However, it is a great remedy to get rid of skin infections as well. Aloe Vera is an all-natural remedy for ringworm and numerous other skin problems. Remove the gel from aloe vera and apply it directly on the skin. Leave it on overnight and wash the affected area the next day. Apply it every day till you are cured of your illness. \
8. Vinegar and Salt
Form a paste of vinegar and salt and apply it directly onto the ringworm. Allow it to sit for 5 minutes. Those who have used this approach to handle ringworm say it tends to take about 7 days or so for the illness to dissipate.
10. Olive Leaf
Almost all the parts of the olive tree have potent health benefits. Olive oil is undoubtedly the best body massage oil, whereas olive leaf is a powerful remedy for ringworm. It has anti-fungal qualities and helps in boosting the body’s immune system. Consume this leaf 3 times per day until the problem subsides and you feel light from within.
Sources:
http://www.thefitindian.com/top-10-natural-remedies-to-treat-ringworm-at-home/
http://www.naturalalternativeremedy.com/the-11-best-at-home-remedies-for-ringworm/
http://www.medicinenet.com/ringworm_pictures_slideshow/article.htm
