Ringworm, which is known as Dermatophytosis, is a highly contagious skin fungus, and according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, over 700,000 people visit the doctor annually with concerns regarding this disease. Thousands of those infected do not seek treatment, so make sure that what to do if you should ever come across this kind of situation in the future.
1. Turmeric
Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. A component in turmeric called curcumin is believed to have anti-microbial properties. Its very beneficial in skin fungus.
How to use:
- Use the turmeric in tea or use it in meal preparation.
- Using the turmeric directly will be more effective on the fungal infections.
- Mix it with water or coconut oil and apply the paste on the infected area.
- Leave it for as long as possible before rinsing it off.
The application of turmeric can make your skin appear yellow, but it fades away in a few days.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
The anti-fungal properties of apple cider vinegar can treat the itchiness and dryness of your ringworm. The content in the unfiltered apple cider vinegar regulates the yeast growth by neutralizing the pH of it.
How to use:
- Apply the apple cider vinegar on the infected area by using a cotton ball soaked in it.
- Repeat the process up to 3 times daily.
- Rinse it off after 10 minutes if you’re going out or if the infection is in an area that gets sweaty.
3. Neem Leaf Extracts
Azadirachta indica, also known as “Neem”, has been considered to be the ultimate antifungal and natural detoxifier for hundreds of years. The extract is capable of removing major pathogens and dermophytes from skin.
How to use:
- Boil the neem leaves in water for a 10 minutes.
- Wash the infected area using water.
- Do not boil it for too long or use the neem leaves directly on fungus infection as it might cause irritation on your skin.
4. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains some amount of fatty acids that help with the infection by damaging the cell membranes of the fungus. Coconut oil can be an effective remedy only in mild and moderate fungus skin infections.
How to use:
- Apply the coconut oil to the infected area 3 times daily.
- Use it for some weeks even after the infection is gone and applying the coconut oil as a moisturizer.
5. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil (specifically wild oregano contains thymol and carvacrol that can stop the growth of fungus.
How to use:
- Always use diluted oregano oil on the infected area.
- Apply it up to 3 times daily.
Make sure you get wild oregano oil.
6. Garlic
Garlic is the most common for treating fungus infections in almost every household. Garlic can be effective against ringworm, as well as against Trichophyton, Torulopsis, Candida, and Cryptococcus.
How to use:
- Do not apply the raw garlic paste directly on the fungus. It can cause irritation.
- Mix the garlic paste with olive oil or coconut oil.
- Apply a thin coating of paste to the infected area using a cotton ball or a clean piece of clothing.
- Keep it on for 2 hours before you rinse it off.
7. Tea Tree Oil
It has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties and commonly used product that’s effective in the treatment of fungal infection. It detoxifies the infected area and reduces inflammation.
How to use:
- Make a 2% dilution of tea tree oil with coconut oil.
- Apply it 3 times to the infected area, daily.
If you do not have sensitive skin, you can use it directly on the infected area.
Safety Measures
These safety steps are recommended by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Keep your skin clean and dry.
• Wear shoes that allow air to circulate freely around your feet.
• Try to avoid places like communal showers and changing rooms. If you don’t have choice, make sure that you wear appropriate footwear.
• Change socks & underwear daily.
• Don’t go out in the tight clothes on a hot day.
• Avoid sharing stuff like towels, socks, underwear, bed sheets, etc.
• Make sure you wash your hands after you touch an animal.
• Take a shower right after exercising.
• Keep your fingers and toenails clipped and clean.
