What is the Best Home Remedy for Ringworm?

Get Rid of Ringworm Naturally: Remedies That Work

Ringworm refers to a fungal infection on your skin surface that appears like a red, itchy ring. It is highly contagious, spreading from people, animals, and even objects. Though medical treatments for ringworm are available, infected individuals can try some home remedies to reduce the infection.

Read on to learn about the common home remedies for ringworm, their symptoms, and prevention!

How Can You Treat Ringworm at Home?

Here are some of the best home remedies for ringworm:

• Apple Cider Vinegar : The antifungal properties of apple cider vinegar help cure ringworm infection. You can apply it as a topical medicine to the infected skin. Take some undiluted vinegar in a bowl, soak cotton wool in it, and apply it on the skin with ringworm. Make sure you apply the vinegar three times a day. Apple cider vinegar has anecdotal antifungal benefits, but it can irritate skin. Dilute with water (1:1 ratio) and discontinue if redness or burning occurs.
• Coconut Oil : The antifungal and antimicrobial properties of coconut oil help reduce the infections of ringworms, especially scalp ringworms. You can oil your scalp with coconut oil, as it works as a conditioner and topical ringworm treatment. Take liquid coconut oil or warm it to liquid and apply it on the infected skin three times a day.
• Turmeric : Turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, helps fight the fungi that cause ringworm. Moreover, it has antifungal properties that prevent the growth of ringworms. Mix turmeric spice or fresh ground turmeric with water to form a paste and apply it on the infected skin. Leave it to dry, and then wash it off with water.  Topical turmeric paste may help due to antifungal properties, but oral consumption does not treat ringworm
• Soap and Water : It is necessary to keep the ringworm-infected area clean. It helps prevent further spread of the infection. You should clean the infected area with antibacterial soap and water before applying oil or cream. Don't leave the area wet after washing with soap, as moisture can help the infection spread faster. Use mild antibacterial soap to clean the area, but avoid harsh products like coal-tar soap, which can irritate sensitive skin..
• Tea Tree Oil : Tea tree oil is one of the best home remedies for ringworm due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties. You must dilute a few drops of tea tree oil in coconut oil or any other carrier and apply it to the infected area overnight. Follow this routine daily until the infection is completely cured.
• Garlic : Garlic is also known for its antifungal properties that can affect the infected area immediately. Take a few garlic cloves and make a paste to apply to the ringworms. Leave it with a cloth for a few hours and then wash it off. Continue this procedure daily for the best results.

How to Identify If You Have Ringworm or Not?

In most cases, ringworms are found on the scalp, feet, and groin, though they can usually affect any part of the body. You must check for the following symptoms to identify if you are affected by ringworm:

• A scaly and clear area inside a red, itchy ring
• Round and flat patches of skin that feel itchy
• Ring-shaped, red rash on the skin
• Raised and expanded rings
• Itchy rash
• Sores and pus-filled blisters may also appear in severe infections.

When Is the Right Time to Visit a Doctor?

Natural remedies with antifungal properties might not always work effectively against ringworm. If the symptoms remain even after two weeks of home treatment, seeking medical advice is advisable.

A doctor may suggest using an over-the-counter antifungal cream, such as one containing clotrimazole or terbinafine, which should be applied twice daily. In more stubborn cases, stronger prescription antifungal medications may be needed.

Individuals who are at higher risk of spreading ringworm to others, like teachers or athletes, should consult a doctor as soon as possible to prevent further transmission and ensure proper treatment.

How Can You Prevent Ringworm?

Preventing ringworm is much simpler than treating an infection, especially since ringworm spreads easily from person to person and even from animals. To reduce your risk, it's essential to follow a few practical prevention tips:

• Keep your skin clean and dry at all times.
• Avoid walking barefoot in communal showers or changing rooms.
• Choose open-toed or loose shoes to let your feet breathe.
• Change socks and underwear every day to maintain hygiene.
• Trim and clean your fingernails and toenails regularly.
• Never share clothing, towels, or bedding with someone who has ringworm.
• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after touching animals.
• If your pets show signs of infection, take them to the vet promptly.
• Shower right after sports games or practice sessions.
• Clean sports equipment and gear frequently.

There are various effective home remedies to cure ringworm, but if you don’t notice any improvement, consider consulting a doctor. Your healthcare provider can assess the condition and type of ringworm and recommend the best treatment plan.