Despite its name, ringworm is not a parasitic infection. Also called dermatophytosis, ringworm is actually a fungal infection of the skin that causes itchiness and redness [1].
It was named as such because of the ring-like rashes that appear on the skin [2].
There are about 40 fungal strains that can cause this infection, the most common of which are Trichophyton, Epidermophyton and Microsporum [3].
It’s nothing serious but because it can make you feel self-conscious about your skin, you’d want to treat this problem right away.
The best way to do this is to make use of these home remedies for ringworm that have been proven by scientists effective in controlling fungal infections.
In the following article, you will get to know how you can treat ringworm infection using natural home remedies. The article will highlight:
- A basic guide to preparing the natural home remedies for ringworm
- How to prepare the remedy for best results
- Some frequently asked questions and answers regarding ringworms
Home Remedies to Get Rid of Ringworm
A proper guideline is very important when it comes to using any home remedies. Following is a list of home remedies for ringworm with directions.
1. Garlic
Haven’t you noticed that garlic is almost always included in the lists of home remedies for different diseases?
You can just imagine how potent this herb is in combating various types of ailments.
It happens to be one of the oldest medicinal plants in the world which are believed to promote longevity by strengthening the health and resolving various diseases [4].
Experimental data shows that it has potent antifungal effects that can help treat fungal skin infections [5, 6].
In fact, one study found that among allium plant species, garlic has the strongest inhibitory effects on Trichophyton that cause ringworm [6].
It also worked effectively when combined with ketoconazole, a medication commonly recommended for fungal infections [6].
Just take note that garlic extract cannot be heated as it will lose its antifungal property when subjected to a temperature above 60 degrees Celsius [5].
Garlic paste is one of the easiest and most effective remedies that you can use very easily at home.
What You’ll Need:
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil
- 3 tablespoons of honey
Recommended Directions:
- Crush garlic until the paste is formed.
- Add honey and olive oil to garlic paste.
- Spread a thin layer of garlic mixture on affected areas of skin.
- Let it sit for 30 minutes to one hour.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Do this two to three times a day for two weeks.
2. Tea Tree Oil
The primary medicinal applications of tea tree oil documented in the scientific literature are its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties [7].
Now, did you know that it’s also a powerful antifungal that can kill microorganisms that cause fungal infections like ringworm?
Various studies report that tea tree oil can prevent the growth and spread of Trichophyton, making it a potential treatment for skin fungal infections [8, 9, 10].
In one that was conducted in 1998, it was shown that tea tree oil was active against 58 isolates of fungi include those of Candida albicans, Trichophyton rumbrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes, Trichophyton tonsurans, and Aspergillus niger, among others [8].
In a more recent trial dated 2003, researchers from Australia analyzed the fungicidal effects of tea tree oil using broth microdilution and macro dilution methods [9].
The strongest compounds that killed fungi included terpinen-4-ol, linalool, alpha-terpineol, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene and 1,8-cineole [9].
Another study that was also done in 2003 yielded the same positive results [10].
There’s enough evidence to prove that tea tree oil works as an antifungal agent, preventing the worsening of infection.
What You’ll Need:
- 10 drops tea tree oil
- 1 teaspoon of almond oil
- Cotton swab
- 1 cup of warm water
Recommended Directions:
- Wash skin with warm water.
- Let it dry.
- Combine almond oil and tea tree oil.
- Dip the cotton swab into the oil mixture.
- Dab cotton swab to affected areas of skin.
- Do this remedy three times a day.
Also Read: 7 Easy Ways to Use Tea Tree Oil for Scabies
3. Turmeric
Turmeric’s therapeutic benefits abound and scientists have constantly studied about this popular spice.
It has been proven many times that turmeric works in fighting bacterial and viral strains, making it a viable treatment for many types of infectious diseases.
For minor fungal infections like ringworm, it can also serve as an excellent remedy, as it has been verified to have potent antifungal actions [11, 12].
In a study that can be found in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology, it was reported that guinea pigs induced with Trichophyton related dermatophytosis were administered with turmeric oil at various concentrations [11].
Although the 15 strains of dermatophytes included in the study were not completely eradicated by turmeric oil, it was noted that the fungal lesions improved after two to five days, and disappeared after six to seven days [11].
What You’ll Need:
- 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
- 1 tablespoon of water
Recommended Directions:
- Combine water and turmeric powder.
- Apply on skin and let it sit for 20 minutes.
- Rinse with soap and water.
- Repeat once a day until ringworm disappears.
4. Aloe Vera
Gel extracted from the aloe vera plant has been used since the ancient times for its numerous curative purposes but it was around the 1930s when clinical studies about it have started [12].
Most of these studies focused on aloe vera’s wound healing and anti-inflammatory properties.
As you probably know, this is the first remedy in most people’s minds when it comes to treating skin injuries like cuts, scrapes, and burns.
However, more people should know that there’s more to aloe vera than treating wounds.
Another one of its benefits includes resolving fungal infections.
Studies indicate that aloe vera gel can destroy dermatophytes that cause fungal infections of the skin including ringworm [13, 14].
Of the various remedies tested in a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, aloe vera was one of those that had the strongest inhibitory effects against Trichophyton Rubrum [13].
Similar positive findings were obtained from another study that can be found in the Pharmaceutical Biology journal [14].
What You’ll Need:
- 1 aloe vera leaf
Recommended Directions:
- Slice aloe vera leaf.
- Squeeze leaf to extract gel.
- Apply a small amount of gel to the skin.
- Wait for 30 minutes before rinsing with water.
- Do this remedy three times a day for up to one week.
Also Read: Aloe Vera for Gastritis, Ulcer, and Stomach Infections
5. Lemongrass
Lemongrass has a wide array of therapeutic benefits that are widely enjoyed in Southeast Asia where it is commonly cultivated [15].
Ketones, terpenes, esters, flavonoids and phenolic compounds are just some of the many components of this herb that contribute to its numerous pharmacological activities [15].
Most of us know that it’s effective in repelling harmful insects like mosquitoes but lemongrass has many other benefits as an anti-diarrheal, anti-inflammatory, anti-malarial, antioxidant, anti-amoebic and many others [15].
That’s not all. This herb is also a great remedy for fungal infections like ringworm
Studies that assess the efficacy of various essential oils point out that lemongrass is one of those that have the strongest fungicidal effects against dermatophytes that cause ringworm [16, 17].
These findings justify the use of lemongrass for fungal skin infections.
It’s also very safe to use and does not cause any harmful side effects, as long as you follow the proper procedure for preparation and application.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of lemongrass leaves
- 1 cup of buttermilk
Recommended Directions:
- Grind lemongrass leaves.
- Mix in buttermilk to form a paste.
- Apply on the skin.
- Leave it on for 30 minutes.
- Rinse with warm water.
- Repeat remedy until symptoms disappear.
6. Grapefruit Extract
Don’t you just love the refreshing flavor and nutritional value of grapefruit?
Loaded with vitamin C and antioxidants, this fruit is known to strengthen the immunity and keep many ailments at bay.
In folk medicine, it is highly regarded for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and antioxidant actions [18].
Its extract, meanwhile, is also a powerful antifungal agent that can help clear fungal skin infections such as ringworm.
A 2011 study conducted by Indian researchers screened the antifungal activities of certain essential oils including grapefruit [19].
Using broth microdilution, disc diffusion, checkerboard microtiter methods, it was determined that grapefruit oil has a significant antifungal activity that works even on pathogenic fungi that have developed resistance to medications [19].
It was found to have a damaging effect on the cellular structure of the fungal strains tested in the study [19].
If you’re having difficulty getting rid of ringworm infection, this is the remedy that you should try using.
What You’ll Need:
- 4 drops of grapefruit extract
- 3 tablespoons of warm water
Recommended Directions:
- Dilute grapefruit seed extract in water.
- Apply the mixture on ringworm rashes.
- Do this procedure three times a day for one week.
Also Read: 10 Amazing Benefits of Grapeseed Oil for Hair + How to Use It
7. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is most famous for its ability to relieve respiratory infections including those that cause a cough and sore throat.
It’s also good to know that this oil can also treat many other health problems including minor infections caused by fungi.
The antifungal activities of oregano oil have been the subject of scientific studies over the years.
Most results indicate that this essential oil works efficiently as a natural remedy for ringworm and other fungal infections [20, 21].
Not only does oregano oil suppress the activities of Trichophyton rubrum, it also had the same effect on other fungal strains such as Malassezia furfur and Trichosporon beigelii [20].
Out of the four oils that were tested in the study, oregano demonstrated the strongest antifungal activity, causing a reduction of up to 95 percent of active fungi cells six hours after exposure [20].
If you’d like immediate results, rely on oregano oil, which can help clear skin infections in a matter of days.
What You’ll Need:
- 4 drops of oregano oil
- 4 drops of rosemary oil
- 1 drop of thyme oil
- 2 tablespoons of sweet almond oil
Recommended Directions:
- Put all ingredients in a bowl.
- Mix well.
- Apply to affected areas of skin three times a day for one week.
Also Read: 10+ Essential Oils for Ringworm That You Should Try
8. Neem
A versatile medicinal plant, neem is native to Asia but can now be found in Nigeria, West Africa and other parts of the world [22].
It is noted to have a wide range of therapeutic benefits thanks to its flavonoids, tannins, polyphenols, and alkaloids [22].
Its leaves are traditionally used for treating ringworm, eczema and other skin diseases [23].
Neem works by disrupting the growth pattern of dermatophytes, reports a study published in the Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology [24].
By preventing their growth, neem can also stop them from spreading to other parts of the skin.
It has also been found to work on many strains of bacteria, which indicates its efficacy in treating other types of infectious diseases.
Neem is a safe and effective way of treating fungal infections. Therefore, you must try this remedy to get rid of ringworm once and for all.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 teaspoon of neem oil
- 1/2 cup of aloe vera gel
Recommended Directions:
- Mix neem oil and aloe vera gel.
- Apply to skin three times a day.
- Repeat remedy for one week or until the infection clears.
9. Bergamot Oil
Have you ever tried using bergamot oil as a natural remedy for ailments?
If yes, then you do probably know how well it works.
Now, if you want to get rid of those unsightly circular marks on your skin that makes you feel embarrassed all the time, you can also try using this oil.
In 2006, Italian researchers evaluated bergamot oil’s antifungal activities against 92 isolates of dermatophytes including species of Trichophyton, Epidermophyton, and Microsporum, among others [25].
Results show that at minimum concentration, it successfully inhibited growth and spread of these microbes by up to 80 percent [25].
Researchers confirm its significant inhibitory effects on Trichophyton, and recommend its inclusion in antifungal medications [25].
There were no reports of adverse reactions following the use of this remedy.
As with other essential oils, you also need to dilute it first in a carrier oil to make sure that it doesn’t harm your skin.
What You’ll Need:
- 5 drops of bergamot oil
- 1 teaspoon of olive oil
Recommended Directions:
- Dilute bergamot oil with olive oil.
- Apply on the skin.
- Repeat procedure once a day for one week.
10. Goldenseal
With its astringent and tonic properties, goldenseal is a safe and practical solution for ringworm [26].
This herb has is also one of the primary ingredients in a medication designed to treat a fungal infection of the foot [27].
There’s enough evidence to show that goldenseal does work for various types of fungal infections.
Not only is it highly effective in relieving fungal infections, it’s also safe to use.
People do not experience any unpleasant side effects after using this remedy.
It’s also very simple to put together and does not require too many ingredients.
What You’ll Need:
- 5 teaspoons of dried goldenseal
- 1 cup of water
Recommended Directions:
- Add goldenseal to water.
- Simmer for 20 minutes.
- Strain the mixture.
- Soak a cotton ball into the mixture.
- Squeeze and then apply on the skin three times a day.
- Follow this remedy for one week.
11. Apple Cider Vinegar
Vinegar is a wonderful element that helps us by solving many problems in our everyday life.
Apple cider vinegar is probably the most popular vinegar that is widely used all over the world. This vinegar can be a natural solution to your ringworms as well.
Apple cider vinegar is great dealing with fungal infections and serious skin conditions. It is very useful in treating vaginal infections, scalp problems, arthritis, skin problems like acne, insect bites and many more.
There are many studies that prove the contributions of apple cider vinegar as a fungicidal that can be useful to get rid of ringworms.
To make the best use of it, you can combine apple cider vinegar with other natural ingredients that have strong antifungal properties.
As we all know tea tree oil is an amazing antifungal element, it is one of the best options for ringworms. You can use a blend of apple cider vinegar and tea tree oil to treat ringworm fast at home.
What You’ll Need:
- 3 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
- 2 drops of tea tree oil
- A glass of water
Recommended Directions:
- Combine the apple cider vinegar with tea tree oil and water in a bowl.
- Use a cotton pad to apply the mixture to the affected area of your skin.
- Leave it on for an hour and rinse with cool water.
- Pat it dry with a clean towel.
- You can repeat this process every day until the infection clears.
Also Read: How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Eczema Relief
Some Frequently Asked Q&A About Ringworm Infection
Q. What is the “ring” in ringworm infection?
A. Actually, the “ring” in the ringworm infection is the red, circular skin rash. It is shaped like a ring that is why the name “ring”. Additionally, the circular skin rash is highly associated with the act of itching. It is because the rashes can be all scaly and cause the skin to crack. Thus, resulting in the “ring” worm infection.
Q. Can animals transmit ringworm to humans?
A. Yes. They can. There are different types of animals which can transmit the ringworm infection to humans. If you have a pet kitten or puppies, then you are at higher risk of contracting the ringworm infection from them. It is because these young animals usually have less hair compared to the adult animals. So, they can easily show the symptoms of ringworm infection. On the other hand, adult animals do not usually show these symptoms. Therefore, you must be very careful and keep your pet’s skin condition in check.
Also, it is important to remember that the type of ringworm infection transmitted from animals to humans is different from the type of ringworm infection transmitted from human to human.
Q. I have ringworm and only want to try home remedies for ringworm treatment. Is it possible?
A. It is very much possible unless or until you have a certain type of ringworm infection. Unfortunately, if you have the more complex form of the tinea capitis infection, then you must consult a doctor for treatment. Your dermatologist will prescribe you with antifungal medication. You can take it for 1 to 3 months. After that, you will be cured.
Q. Is there any other type of skin condition that looks like ringworm infection?
A. Yes, unfortunately. Other types of skin conditions and infections that usually look like ringworm infection include diseases like pityriasis rosea, impetigo cellulitis, and seborrhea.
If you are unsure about what type of skin condition you have then it is best to consult a doctor and then get a proper treatment.
Q. How do I prevent ringworm infection from appearing again in the future?
A. As you already know, ringworm is highly contagious. Thus, you must take necessary steps to prevent it from spreading and occurring again. The best possible way of avoiding the possibility of getting ringworm treatment again the future is to make sure your personal hygiene is good. It is best not to share towels, sandals and other personal objects with others.
Bottom Line
Although ringworm is not a serious condition, you’d probably want to get rid of it as soon as you can.
You’d want to feel confident once more in your skin, and not have that nagging feeling of always wanting to cover up.
You can do this with the help of these simple and proven home remedies to get rid of ringworms fast.
Hope this article came to your help. For any queries or confusions, you can ask us by leaving a comment in the comments section below.
Also, don’t forget to share your experience of using these home remedies for ringworms with us.
Read Next: How Effective is Apple Cider Vinegar for Ringworm Treatment?
