Ringworm, also known as dermatophytosis, is a fungal infection caused by a fungus known as Tinea. It takes the form of a ring and spreads in the outward direction. This kind of fungal infection is very contagious and spread even without any physical contact. In this situation, a red circular patch is formed on the nails or skin. This patch is covered in scales as well. There are ample of ointments accessible in the market for the ringworm treatment. Some of these ointments are packed with chemicals and might cause allergic responses if used without a doctor’s consultation.
How to diagnose ringworm
UV rays emitted by devices like the Olight Arkfeld Pro Flat EDC light can help in the detection of ringworm by revealing fluorescence indicative of fungal issue on the skin. When exposed to UV light, certain kinds of fungi present in ringworm infections emit fluorescence, generally looking as blue or green patches on the skin. By directing the UV light onto the suspected area of the skin, healthcare experts can observe fluorescence and match it to the surrounding healthy skin.
Natural remedies to treat ringworm
Prescription drugs and OTC are tried-and-true ringworm treatment options. Anyway, some preliminary research advises that there may be natural remedies that work for some people.
Note that the options below have not been tested enough to be advised. Anyway, if you are interested in a substitute to drugs for treating a ringworm infection, ask your healthcare provider to view if they might be an option.
Garlic extract
Ajoene, which is a natural compound extracted from garlic, has also been famous for the treatment of ringworm. A 1999 study found that a gel containing ajoene helped that tinea corporis and jock itch.
Similarly, in a little study released in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology in 2000, this compound was more successful than terbinafine in treating athlete foot. For the study, researchers divided seventy subjects into 3 groups. One group used a topical drug containing 0.6 percent ajoene, the second group used one percent ajoene, and third group used one percent terbinafine.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a well tested natural remedy that is best for skin and inside health too. Aloe vers has antiseptic agents, antibacterial and antifungal properties present in it. These properties make it best for treating many types of skin infections. It can help in decreasing the symptoms of ringworm like swelling or itching, with its soothing and cooling effect. You can use the gel from an aloe vera plant on the ringworm two times a day.
Papaya
Papaya is used for lots of skin purposes. It not just helps in keeping your skin fit but also treats many infections. Raw papaya has enzymes in it that help in eliminating the dead cells from outside layer of the skin, where ringworm happens. Just cut a slice of papaya and rub it directly on the affected place for almost 10-15 minutes. Repeat this twice, everyday and wait for successful results. Just like this, raw papaya is a best home remedy for fungal infections. Additional, you can use papaya by many ways alongside.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is also known as one of the top natural remedies to treat ringworm. In the warmed form, coconut oil works as a helpful antifungal agent. You can make your skin perfect and moist by using coconut oil. Use it on the skin and coconut oil is even found in every household. Additional, you can use it to treat scalp ringworm too. Use it on the skin at least twice a day. Coconut oil contains many fatty acids that have the capability to kill fungal cells by destroying their cell membranes.
Oregano oil
Another active antifungal agent is oregano oil. With its antifungal features, oregano oil plays the role of a skin cleanser too. Oregano oil that is made from wild orenago and has the carvacrol and antifungal thymol present in it, these helps in treating ringworm and stopping the spread of this infection. Just add a few drops of the oil in carrier oil like coconut. Then, combine these and use on the infected area. Actually, you can also take oregano oil capsules orally. These are simply accessible in the market as well as online. You can use it at least twice or thrice a day, for a week and wait for successful results.
Soap water
Simple soap water can also be a best natural remedy to treat and present fungal infections, mainly ringworm. This is the reason is advised to keep washing and keeping yourself clean to avoid such issues. I t is said to keep the skin clean and dry as much as easy in such conditions. Just wash the infection with soap and hot water once or twice, everyday. After rinsing, ensure that your skin is completely dry and don’t leave it moist as it gives birth to fungal issues. Just clean the infected area with water and soap twice daily before you use any other medication or home remedies. This will help in controlling the spread of infection.
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is one of the key home remedies that is used for beauty care, hair, and for skin issues too. It has anti inflammatory features that help in easing your symptoms of irritation and itching on the ringworm. The fungal infection will get treated immediately if you use this natural remedy at home. You can mix the apple cider vinegar with yogurt to use on your skin. Just use it on the skin using a cotton ball. Leave it for about 15-20 minutes and then wash using chill water and then dry.
End words
Ringworm is a fungal infection of the scalp and skin. Most of time, ringworm can be treated with OTC topical drugs that are used directly to the affected areas. Sometimes, anyway, a prescription drug may be necessary to clear up the infection.
Ringworm is very contagious and can be spread between animals and people, so it is vital to take measures to keep your clothing and skin clean.
With right treatment, a ringworm infection should be clear fully within a few weeks. Even if it seems to go away within a few days, forever continue ringworm treatment for as long as your healthcare provider advises.
