Ringworm (Dermatophytosis) is a misnomer as it is not caused by worms but by various fungi. However, one thing in its name is typically true and that is the formation of a ring like structure on the skin with a defined border by fungus and intact skin in the middle of this scaly ring. It is a disease that can affect different areas of your body. This condition is not that serious, unless it affects the scalp.
There are some home remedies to treat this condition; read on to know more about it:
APPLE CIDER VINEGAR
Apple cider vinegar’s anti fungal properties are granted by its highly acidic qualities. As fungi cannot thrive in highly acidic environments, ACV can lead to their complete elimination provided you use it regularly for an extended period of time. Before applying apple cider vinegar on your rashes, do a patch test to see if your skin is sensitive to ACV. First use may give you a stinging sensation but if it burns a lot, you may be sensitive to ACV use.
Here’s how to use this: If you are all right with the test and your skin doesn’t burn a lot due to high acidic property of vinegar, apply some vinegar using cotton ball on your ringworm rashes. Repeat 3-4 times a day.
TEA TREE OIL
You just need to use 100% pure tea tree oil because if you use the one diluted with other oils, it may not be able to cure your ringworm.
Here’s how to use this: Take the cotton swab and pour few drops of tea tree oil on it. Apply this oil to your ringworm affected area and properly cover the rash with the oil. Repeat 3-4 times a day. However, if you feel, undiluted oil irritates your skin a lot, dilute it with warm water.
LEMONGRASS TEA
Drink a glass of lemongrass tea 3 times per day. You could also apply the used tea bags directly to the areas that are affected while you’re drinking your delicious tea.
Here’s how to make lemongrass tea: chop lemongrass and put it in boiling water (on the flame). Add 1 inch ginger and let it boil for 2-3 minutes. Strain and add honey or stevia if you desire. Consume warm!
GARLIC
Garlic is flavoured with ajoene, a natural anti-fungal agent. It is used to cure many kinds of fungal infections, including ring worm.
Here’s how to use this: You need to peel a clove and cut it into slim slices. Place these slices on the affected area and wrap a bandage around it. You need to leave it overnight for best results. In case you would like to make a thick paste and apply it on the ringworm, go for it!
TURMERIC
Turmeric, popularly known as the holy powder has several potent benefits.
Here’s how to use this: 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.
ADDITIONAL/OTHER REMEDIES:
- Make a powder with Mustard seeds. Add some water and make a paste. Apply on the patch till it disappears.
- Vinegar and salt are a good combination for treating ringworms. Make a paste of vinegar and salt, apply it directly onto the ringworm patch and leave it for 5 minutes. Continue this method daily till the patch heals completely.
- Smash few pieces of garlic and rub it on the affected area daily till the patch heals and disappears.