Ringworm can be treated with antifungal medications in the form of ointments, creams, or oral medications. In addition to doctor-prescribed medication, some natural ingredients can be used to relieve ringworm symptoms.

What is ringworm?

Ringworm is a fungal infection. In medical terms, ringworm is known as tinea capitis. This fungus can grow in dead skin tissue, such as nails and hair. Ringworm infection causes red, scaly, and itchy patches of skin in the shape of a circle or ring.

Ringworm can affect anyone, but you are more likely to get it if you meet the following conditions:

• Living in a warm, humid environment or climate
• Using public bathrooms
• Being in close contact with animals infected with ringworm
• Suffering from diabetes
• Obese or overweight.
• Excessive sweating
• Having a weak immune system
• Using personal items interchangeably

Also read: Often Considered The Same, This Is The Different Between Scabies And Ringworm

Natural Ingredients for treating ringworm

Ringworm is commonly treated with antifungal creams or ointments. In cases of more severe ringworm infections, doctors may prescribe oral antifungal medications.

Aside from antifungal medications, ringworm can be relieved by the following natural home remedies:

Aloe vera

Aloe vera has antibacterial and antifungal properties and can be used to treat ringworm. Aloe vera can relieve the itching and discomfort caused by ringworm. You can apply ointments or aloe vera gel three times per day until the symptoms disappear.

Apple cider vinegar

Apple cider vinegar contains strong antifungal properties that can be used to treat ringworm. To use, soak a cotton swab in pure apple cider vinegar and apply to the ringworm-infected area. Repeat this three times per day until the complaint goes away.

Read more: Why Mosquito Bites Itch And How To Deal With It?

Coconut oil

The fat content in coconut oil can eradicate fungi, including mild ringworm fungal infections. Aside from killing the fungus, coconut oil moisturizes the skin and aids in faster healing. To use, warm the coconut oil until it melts, then apply it to the area infected with the fungus.

Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil contains antifungal and antibacterial properties that can be used to treat ringworm. Apply tea tree oil using a cotton swab or cotton bud to the infected area three times a day or until the complaint subsides.

Turmeric

Turmeric contains anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Mix fresh turmeric or turmeric powder with a little water and stir until it thickens. Apply it to the infected skin and let it dry. Aside from applying, you can also boost your immune system by drinking turmeric water or tea.

Although the natural ingredients listed above are known to have antifungal and antibacterial properties, there has not been much research on the benefits and side effects of these ingredients in treating ringworm. If you want to use natural ingredients to treat ringworm, you should first consult your doctor.

Ringworm prevention

Ringworm fungal infection is a common skin problem that can be easily spread. To prevent ringworm, the CDC recommends the following methods:

• Keeping skin clean and dry
• Wearing footwear in public restrooms or changing rooms
• Changing socks and underwear daily
• Keeping fingernails and toenails clipped and clean
• Avoid sharing clothes, towels, or bed linens with people who have ringworm
• Washing hands with soap and water on a regular basis, especially after contact with animals that may carry ringworm

If you need medical advice or consultation, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care application by downloading the Ai Care application from the App Store or Play Store.

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