Ringworm infection is caused by a fungus that causes red, circular rings on the skin where the edges are slightly raised. The condition can be very itchy and can even spread to several parts of the body if left untreated.
Ringworm infection requires diligent treatment to ensure that it does not spread to other parts of the body. Instead of depending on topical creams and ointments that can be applied on the skin, there are several home remedies that can give the same results and protect the skin as well in the process. Check out a few of them here.
9 Tips To Cure Ringworm In Humans
1. Nail Polish Remover/Nail Polish
Though it might come as a surprise, nail polish remover is known to be a very effective treatment in masking the spread of ringworm infection and also receding the fungus effectively. Any brand of nail polish or nail polish remover would do for this purpose. Paint a coat of the nail polish or remover on the surface and leave it on.
You can keep doing this several times a day and for a few days until you see that the fungus has receded completely. Repeat for a few more days to make sure that the symptoms do not resurface. The coat on the skin surface will prevent the fungus from spreading and masks its action as well.
2. Lemon
The acidic nature of lemon due to the citric acid and vitamin C that is present is what makes it a winning solution for ringworm infection. Fungus cannot thrive in acidic environments and this will soon cause the fungus to die and the symptom to subside. Squeeze some juice out of lemon and apply on the ringworm. Let it air dry. Repeat the application throughout the day and leave a coat at night as well. At all times, ensure that the infection is covered by the lemon juice. Soon, you will find that the fungus starts clearing.
3. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is a very strong essential oil that can be used for treating all kinds of fungal infections. It can be smeared on the skin and left on for the fungus to be destroyed. For skin that is sensitive, tea tree oil must be applied with care. It has to be slightly diluted with water and applied to avoid burns on the skin. A patch test is mandatory for sensitive skin when tea tree oil is used. The right amount of dilution ensures that the skin stays free from damage.
4. Colgate
Application of colgate toothpaste too is known to be surprisingly effective on ringworm infection. It could be the menthol or the peppermint or the clove that could be working on the fungus. Whatever it is, it is known to cure the infection in 3-4 days. Apply colgate toothpaste on the entire skin patch and allow the toothpaste to dry on the area. This will create a barrier on the skin surface and prevent the spread as well as treat the fungus effectively. Make sure that you leave a coat on the skin while you go to sleep as well for its complete action to set in. In a few days, the ringworm will be entirely removed from your skin.
5. Vicks
Another simple and effective remedy that can be used by all and sundry is the use of Vicks for treating ringworm. The mentholated balm, which is used for treating pain and congestion related to cough and cold, is also very effective on ringworm. The tingling and burning sensation created by the application of Vicks helps in treating the fungus and also in controlling the itching associated with this condition.
6. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is also a simple remedy that can be administered at home for the treatment of ringworm infection. A layer can be left on the skin and allowed to dry. Re-apply several times a day and for a few weeks until you are sure that the fungus has completely been eliminated. Apple cider vinegar has anti bacterial and anti inflammatory properties and its skin regenerating properties are also helpful in restoring the damage caused due to the infection and prevention of scars.
7. Turmeric
This yellow spice that is a constant fixture in our kitchen shelf is a natural medicine that is useful for treating a whole lot of diseases of the body, the most serious one being cancerous tumors. Curcumin which is an active herb that is found in turmeric has anti-inflammatory and anti bacterial properties. It is also a great immune booster and exerts its all round action on the fungus causing the ringworm. Make a paste of turmeric and apply on the ringworm, covering the entire area so that all the fungus is suppressed under the action of curcumin. Allow the paste to dry and remain on the skin. Apply a fresh coat as and when necessary. Turmeric is also good for the skin in that it prevents scars and blemishes on the skin caused due to infections and skin conditions.
8. Neem
Neem is also an antibacterial agent and used extensively for treating fungus infections on the skin. Take neem leaves and make it into a paste. Apply on the skin and let it dry. You can rinse off and apply a fresh coat every two hours. Neem water, which is made by boiling neem leaves, can be use for bathing and rinsing the affected spot for controlling the spread. Neem helps the fungus from spreading and destroys the action of the fungus on the skin as well.
9. Garlic
The burning action of garlic on the skin discourages bacterial and fungal action when applied on the site of infection. Slice a piece of garlic and cover the ringworm with the slices. You can stick it in place with a band-aid or gauze. The procedure will cause the skin to burn and turn red. However, it is very effective on fungus and in a few hours, you will see results. Apply garlic all throughout the day and night for three to four days. By then, the fungus would be removed. If not, leave a gap of 2-3 days before you proceed with the treatment. This is to prevent skin burning and blister formation.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.