Several home remedies, such as essential oils, aloe vera, and turmeric, may help clear a ringworm infection. If your symptoms do not clear up in 2 weeks, it’s important to speak with a doctor, as ringworm is highly infectious.
Despite its name, ringworm isn’t actually 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. It lives on the dead tissues of the skin, including your nails and hair.
Ringworm causes a discolored, scaly, and itchy patch to form on your skin. Over time, it takes the shape of a circle or a ring (or several rings). This is where the name “ringworm” comes from.
You can get ringworm on your skin and nails. It’s most common on the arms and the scalp, but you can get it anywhere on your skin, including your face. If ringworm develops in different areas, it may be called by a different name. For example, when it affects the groin area, it’s referred to as jock itch. When it affects the area between your toes, it’s called athlete’s foot.
Fortunately, ringworm can respond well to home treatments.
A note about essential oils
Several essential oils, listed below, can help treat ringworm. Before using essential oils, it’s important to test that you’re not allergic to them. You can dilute the essential oil by adding 3 to 5 drops per ounce of carrier oil, such as olive or mineral oil. Then, rub it onto healthy skin in an area the size of a dime. If you have no reaction in 12 to 24 hours, it should be safe to use on your infection.
When you have ringworm, you need to keep the area as clean as possible. This helps prevent the further spread of the rash and helps keep the affected area under control.
You should wash the affected area with water and antibacterial soap daily before applying other home remedies on top of it. Dry the area thoroughly after showering, as moisture makes it easier for the fungus to spread.
Coal-tar soap is an old home remedy that
Apple cider vinegar has strong
Native Australians conventionally used tea tree oil as an antifungal and antibacterial, and it’s used today for the same purposes. It can be
Apply tea tree oil directly to the affected area two or three times per day with a cotton ball or swab. 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.
Coconut oil has both microbial and antifungal properties that may help treat ringworm infections. It’s an extremely effective topical home remedy for ringworm and infections with other fungi, like candida. Because it’s easy to apply to the scalp and is an effective hair conditioner, coconut oil could be an ideal treatment for scalp ringworm.
To use it, warm the coconut oil either in the microwave or in your hand until it becomes liquid, then apply it directly to the affected area. It will absorb into the skin quickly. Apply it at least 3 times daily.
Turmeric has numerous health benefits, including antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also an
Try combining fresh-ground turmeric, or the turmeric spice, with a small amount of water and mixing until it becomes a paste. Apply it to your skin and leave it on until it dries. You can also drink turmeric water or turmeric tea daily to get the internal benefits.
Aloe vera has long been used as a natural remedy for both
You can find ointments with aloe vera or apply aloe vera gel directly to the area.
Oregano essential oil can inhibit and treat fungal skin infections, including athlete’s foot and ringworm.
Oregano oil is an extract that you can purchase online or at health stores. Try mixing a few drops with a carrier oil like olive or coconut oil, and apply it to the affected area.
Lemongrass oil extract has antifungal properties that can be
To use lemongrass oil, mix a few drops with a carrier oil and apply it directly to the skin. You can also apply a brewed tea bag directly to the ringworm.
While all-natural ingredients are great, sometimes you need something a little stronger. OTC antifungal topical remedies are available and effective for mild cases of ringworm. Look for the active ingredients clotrimazole and terbinafine.
You should see a doctor if your symptoms don’t clear up or don’t respond to treatment within 2 weeks. You should speak with a doctor if you think you are likely to spread the infection to others, such as if you’re a teacher.
Sometimes, ringworm may not respond to home remedies or OTC treatments. In this case, a doctor will need to write you a prescription for an antifungal topical ointment or an oral medication.
Ringworm is highly contagious. While it’s most commonly spread from skin-to-skin contact, you can also catch it from touching something that someone with ringworm touched.
The following measures can help to prevent ringworm:
- keep your skin clean and dry
- put on clean and dry clothes immediately after the gym or shower
- avoid physical contact with someone who has ringworm
- always wear shoes, like flip-flops, in public showers
How long does it take for ringworm to clear up?
Most cases of ringworm clear up within 2 weeks. If the infection lasts longer than this, it is a good idea to speak with a doctor.
Does ringworm go away by itself?
Ringworm can go away by itself, but this may take several weeks, which is why it is recommended to treat the infection. This can help avoid spreading the infection to others.
How to tell if ringworm is healing?
You can typically tell if ringworm is healing if your symptoms begin to subside. This may include the rash getting smaller and reduced itchiness.
Despite its name, ringworm isn’t actually caused by a worm or any type of living parasite. Instead, it’s a skin condition that’s caused by a fungus. It can cause a discolored, scaly, and itchy patch to form on your skin.
Several home remedies, such as essential oils, aloe vera, and turmeric, may help clear a ringworm infection.
Ringworm can go away by itself, but it is recommended that treatment be given to avoid spreading it to others.
