The name “ringworm” sounds like it is a parasitic infection.
However, It is NOT!
It’s actually a fungal problem that appears on the skin as ring-like rashes, hence the name.
If you have this condition, then you may seem to worry about it.
We suggest that you don’t! Using apple cider vinegar for ringworm is an all-natural solution to this problem.
Ringworm infection is not that serious at all, to be honest.
Plus, it can be treated with natural home remedies.
Using apple cider vinegar is one such natural solutions.
In the following article, you will know how to treat ringworm infection using apple cider vinegar. The article will highlight:
- A basic guide on ringworm – causes, and symptoms
- Properties of apple cider vinegar
- Why use apple cider vinegar for treating ringworm
- Highly effective remedies that are safe for the use of this fungal problem
RELATED: 10 Useful Home Remedies for Ringworm & How to Use Them
Ringworm: A Quick Guide
Ringworm is a fungal infection just like athlete’s foot, jock itch, or scalp fungus [1].
It is also called tinea corporis [1].
A highly contagious condition, it spreads from one person to another through direct contact with infected skin [1].
You can also get this infection if you use an object that has been contaminated with fungus such as towels, clothing, comb, and so on [2].
It’s also possible to get infected from exposure to contaminated soil or animals [3].
Like other types of fungi, the fungal strains causing ringworm also thrive in moist and wet environments.
This is why, those who make use of public restrooms, public showers or swimming pools are prone to this fungal infection.
The usual victims of this prevalent skin disorder are children, but it can also affect teens and adults [2].
Ringworm can appear on the following parts of the skin:
Like bacteria, fungi also exist in the body, and on the skin [2].
Most of the time, these microorganisms do not cause any problem [2].
However, if there’s an overgrowth, or when they multiply too quickly, that’s when infection occurs [2].
There are three different kinds of fungi that cause ringworm, and these include:
- Trichophyton
- Microsporum
- Epidermophyton [3]
The problem with some fungal infections is that they keep on coming back.
That’s because some strains of fungi have already grown resistant to medications.
If your infection keeps on coming back again and again, it would be a good idea to rely on natural solutions instead.
One that you should try is apple cider vinegar, which many people attest as effective and safe.
RELATED: 10 Essential Oils for Ringworm That You Should Try
Properties of Apple Cider Vinegar
Vinegar is French for “sour wine” [4].
There are two steps by which apple cider vinegar is made:
First, apples are crushed and fermented with yeast and sugars to turn into alcohol [4].
Second, bacteria are mixed in to turn crushed apples into acetic acid [4].
That’s how you get apple cider vinegar.
Just like apple juice, apple cider vinegar also contains many important nutrients such as B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, calcium, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium [5].
It’s also a good source of highly beneficial compounds and fiber like acetic acid, citric acid, and pectin [5].
Since the ancient times, apple cider vinegar has been used to cure a wide range of ailments such as a sore throat, upset stomach, leg cramps, hypertension, sinusitis, acne, sunburn, shingles, dandruff, insect bites, vaginal infections, arthritis and more [5].
Some of these uses are based on historical anecdotes, while others have been established in scientific literature.
Its ability to tone down bacterial infections, for example, has been proven in a study [6].
It is also a boon for those who are struggling to lose weight, as it been confirmed to aid in burning fat and calories [7].
Those who have high blood pressure can also turn to apple cider vinegar for immediate treatment [8].
As you can see, there are many benefits associated with the use of apple cider vinegar.
Let’s find out how it works in treating fungal infections like ringworm.
RELATED: How Apple Cider Vinegar Can Help You Get Rid of Your Acne
Why Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Ringworm Remedy?
According to Earth Clinic, apple cider vinegar is “the most popular remedy for ringworm.” It is the “all-natural ringworm treatment” that works safely and effectively even on children’s sensitive skin.
It’s also said to be a good “non-toxic alternative” to fungal medications commonly prescribed for this problem.
Some say that it works even on recurrent fungal infections that keep on coming back over and over.
These are simply claims of people who have tried this remedy.
But how effective is it?
A 1998 study conducted by a group of Korean researchers probed the antifungal properties of vinegar [9].
Results reveal that vinegar demonstrated antifungal activities against Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Candida albicans [9].
These are the fungal strains that commonly cause infections on the skin, including ringworm [9].
The active compounds in this vinegar work in preventing the fungal strains from growing and spreading.
In another study that can be found in the Hong Kong Journal of Dermatology, it was reported that application of 5 percent acetic acid was more than enough to suppress the formation and activities of the fungus that causes ringworm, which is Trichophyton rubrum [10].
Indeed, there’s sufficient evidence indicating the efficacy of apple cider vinegar as a natural fungicidal.
RELATED: Top 10 Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar for the Skin
How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Treating Ringworm?
Here are the various ways you can use apple cider vinegar for treating ringworm.
Many of these are in combination with other natural ingredients that also demonstrate potent antifungal activities such as tea tree oil and garlic.
1. Mix Apple Cider Vinegar, Tea Tree Oil, and Water
Tea tree oil is a good antifungal agent that can help in controlling the growth and spread of fungal strains that cause ringworm.
What You’ll Need:
- One glass of water
- Three tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
- Two drops of tea tree oil
Recommended Directions:
- Combine apple cider vinegar, tea tree oil, and water in a bowl.
- Using a cotton pad, apply the mixture on ringworm.
- Leave it on for one hour before rinsing with cool water.
- Pat it dry with a clean towel.
- Do this procedure every day until the infection clears.
2. Combine Apple Cider Vinegar and Aloe Vera Gel
Many people rely on Aloe Vera gel for cleansing wounds. This gel can also be used for controlling fungal infections.
What You’ll Need:
- One teaspoon of apple cider vinegar
- One tablespoon of aloe vera gel
Recommended Directions:
- Mix aloe vera gel and apple cider vinegar.
- Use a cotton ball to apply the mixture to rashes.
- Cover with a towel.
- Remove towel and rinse with cool water.
- Dry with a different towel.
- Do this daily for one to two weeks.
RELATED: 5 Effective Ways to Use Aloe Vera for Acne Treatment
3. Soak in Apple Cider Vinegar Bath
A quick way to get rid of fungal infections in the body is to pour apple cider vinegar into your bath water.
What You’ll Need:
- Bathwater
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
Recommended Directions:
- Pour apple cider vinegar into your bath water.
- Soak in the bath for 30 minutes.
- Rinse your body with cool water.
- Repeat remedy twice a day until rashes disappear.
4. Use Undiluted Apple Cider Vinegar
Unlike essential oils, apple cider vinegar can be applied to the skin undiluted.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
Recommended Directions:
- Soak a cloth in apple cider vinegar.
- Wring to get rid of excess vinegar.
- Apply cloth on rashes.
- Do this four to five times a day for three days.
5. Add Garlic to Apple Cider Vinegar
Garlic is also known as a potent antifungal, which can help neutralize infection-causing fungus.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
- Two cloves of garlic
Recommended Directions:
- Crush garlic cloves to extract juice.
- Alternatively, you may boil garlic cloves in one cup of water.
- Put garlic extract in a bowl.
- Add apple cider vinegar.
- Apply this mixture to your rashes.
- Do this every day for one to two weeks, or until skin condition gets better.
6. Use Apple Cider Vinegar with Onion Extract
Like garlic, onion is also an efficient way to suppress the activities of fungi.
What You’ll Need:
- One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- One whole onion
Recommended Directions:
- Chop onion into small pieces.
- Put in a jar with a lid.
- Chill in the refrigerator for 24 hours.
- The next day, pour the onion juice into a bowl.
- Add apple cider vinegar.
- Apply a thin layer of the mixture on your rashes.
- Rinse with cool water after five minutes
- Follow this technique for two days.
7. Pair Apple Cider Vinegar with Essential Oils
Many essential oils can be used to treat ringworm. Some of these are oregano oil, chamomile oil, and thyme oil.
What You’ll Need:
- One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
- Three drops of oregano oil
- Two drops of thyme oil
- Two drops of chamomile oil
- Two tablespoons of olive oil
Recommended Directions:
- In a jar, put all the oils and shake to blend.
- Apply a thin layer of apple cider vinegar on the rashes.
- Wash it off after 15 minutes.
- Pat it dry with a clean towel.
- Using a cotton ball, apply oil blend on the rashes.
- Wipe it off after 10 minutes.
- Do this process once a day for one week.
RELATED: 10 Essential Oils for Ringworm That You Should Try
8. Use Apple Cider Vinegar with Turmeric
Turmeric is a popular Indian spice. It is traditionally used in Indian culinary and Ayurvedic and Unani medicinal practices.
This stark yellow root is one of the most effective sources of therapeutic properties. The uses and health benefits of turmeric come from the active compound- curcumin 1.
A recent medical experiment on the therapeutic effects of curcumin revealed that the compound is a potent anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant agent. (8)
A powerful blend of ACV and turmeric powder can fight off the ringworm infection in the quickest possible time.
What You’ll Need:
- One teaspoon of turmeric powder
- One tablespoon of ACV
Recommended Directions:
- Add turmeric powder to ACV and mix them into a paste.
- Now apply the paste on the ringworm infected skin area.
- Let the paste dry off on the skin.
- Later on, rinse off with clean water.
- Repeat the treatment twice daily for a speedy recovery.
9. Mix Apple Cider Vinegar with Baking Soda
Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate is a cost-effective and easily available kitchen ingredient. It is a superb home remedy for some skin disorders as well.
Baking soda is a traditional skin exfoliator and cleansing agent. It can balance the pH level of the skin and make it impossible for the fungi to survive. Moreover, the anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal and antiseptic qualities of baking soda can help cure ringworm infection. (8)
You can use ACV and baking soda mixture on the ringworm as the most effective ringworm remedy.
What You’ll Need:
- Two tablespoon of ACV
- Two tablespoon of baking soda
Recommended Directions:
- Add baking soda to ACV and make a thick paste.
- Apply the mixture to the infectious skin area.
- Leave it on for 15 minutes and then rinse off.
- Repeat the process twice daily.
RELATED: Baking Soda for Acne: 12 Easy Ways You Can Use
10. Consume ACV with Lemon, Honey, Cinnamon, and Water
Lemon, honey, and cinnamon powder are readily available kitchen ingredients with potent antifungal and anti-inflammatory values. You can combine these ingredients with ACV for a wonderful potion to get rid of ringworm fast.
What You’ll Need:
- One tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon of cinnamon powder
- One teaspoon of honey
- 1 teaspoon of raw apple cider vinegar
- One glass of warm water
Recommended Directions:
- Combine all the ingredients with mildly warm water.
- Consume the drink first thing in the morning.
- Regular consumption of this healthy drink will detoxify your body and improve your immune defense against ringworm, eczema, acne and many other skin disorders.
RELATED: The Benefits of Honey and Cinnamon for Weight Loss
How to use Apple Cider Vinegar for Scalp Ringworm?
To have a healthy hair, it’s essential to have a healthy scalp.
Apple cider vinegar is great for keeping the scalp and hair healthy as well as it cleanses the hair, reduces hair loss, prevents dry scalp, reduces dandruff and itching.
Apart from providing healthy and shiny hair, apple cider vinegar also helps to treat ringworm on the head. Here are a few home remedies you can use to treat ringworm on your scalp:
11. Apple Cider Vinegar with Peppermint
Peppermint aromatic plant is a combination of spearmint and watermint. Peppermint leaves or Mentha piperita are popular for their minty aroma and warm flavor. Peppermint is a native of England, but you can get it anywhere in the world.
Peppermint leaves are rich in medicinal values and have versatile uses and therapeutic benefits. The spicy leaves are the first aid for various health problems including skin infections, menstrual cramps, indigestion, nausea, stress, hypersensitivity, muscle and joint pains, common cold, flu, etc.
The strong antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties of peppermint leaves can fight fungal infection such as ringworm. The calming qualities of the leaves can soothe irritations and itch of the inflamed skin.
You can use peppermint leaves in combination with ACV to create a healing mist for ringworm. This particular method of using ACV is very effective to curb ringworm on your scalp.
You have to follow the process below.
What You’ll Need:
- 1 cup of ACV
- 1 cup of hot water
- Ten peppermint leaves
- One spray bottle
Recommended Directions:
- Blend peppermint leaves and collect the juice.
- Now, mix the juice with ACV and warm water thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
- Then, spray the solution onto your ringworm affected scalp.
- Leave it on for 20-30 minutes then rinse off.
- Repeat the process once daily until you see good results.
RELATED: 12 Uses and Health Benefits of Peppermint Oil
12. Add Apple Cider Vinegar with Water for Children
Ringworm affect school going children more than adults, in fact, children are more prone to ringworm than adults.
Apple cider vinegar is non-toxic in nature making it perfect for treating children with ringworm on their scalp.
You have to follow the simple steps mentioned below:
What You’ll Need:
- One cup of water
- Two to three teaspoons of apple cider vinegar
- Cotton balls
Recommended Directions:
- Dilute water with apple cider vinegar
- Soak the cotton ball with the diluted water and dab on the affected area on the scalp.
- Do this three times a week for effective results
Some Q&A About Ringworm Infection
Q. What is the “ring” in ringworm infection?
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?
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?
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?
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 proper treatment.
Q. How do I prevent ringworm infection from appearing again in the future?
As you already know, the ring is highly contagious. Thus, you must take the necessary steps to prevent it from spreading and recurring again. The best possible way of avoiding the possibility of getting ringworm treatment again the future is to make sure your hygiene is good. It is best not to share towels, sandals and other personal objects with others.
Q. How to use apple cider vinegar for scalp ringworm?
The home remedies for ringworm using ACV is applicable for all kinds of the condition such as ringworm on beard, face, scalp, groin, nails, etc.
However, if you want to treat ringworm on scalp using ACV specifically, try this method:
Take a tablespoon of ACV and massage it thoroughly on the fungal spores of the scalp thrice daily. Repetition of the treatment will relieve the ringworm problem in a couple of days.
Q. How to use ACV for ringworm on cats?
Not only you, may even your poor pets suffer from ringworm. Especially your cat may have a tough time because of these parasitic infestations. You can massage a couple of spoons of ACV on the coat of your cat. Additionally, bathe your pet using an anti-fungal shampoo and give a final rinse to her coat with ACV spray. You can add some raw ACV to your pet’s drinking water for internal immune defense against the ringworm fleas and ticks.
Q. How long does it take for apple cider vinegar to treat ringworm?
It takes approximately several weeks of the meticulous application before apple cider vinegar to take full effect. However, be patient, for apple cider vinegar helps to treat ringworm effectively and prevents it from recurring.
Q. How to use apple cider vinegar for ringworm on the ear and how long does it take to remove it?
You can prepare a mixture by adding two tablespoons of olive oil, three drops of tea tree oil, and one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar. Using a dropper, add one to two drops of the mixture in the ear and leave it for about five to seven minutes. After that, turn your head and let the mixture drain out. Following this treatment thrice a day can help to treat the ringworm in less than a week.
Q. Is It safe to use apple cider vinegar for the hair?
Yes, apple cider vinegar is very safe for the hair. In fact, many people use apple cider vinegar for treating itchy, dry and dandruff prone scalp. The results you may ask? Well, it leaves the hair soft, smooth, shiny and most importantly ringworm free scalp!
To Sum Up
If there is any magical ingredient that has multi-beneficial properties, then it truly is Apple cider vinegar. Apart from conventional use for cooking, it is a well-known name as a home remedy for treating many health problems including ringworm.
It is always best to rely on natural home remedies like this one. It is because many fungal strains have already become resistant to fungal medications.
This natural ingredient is not only effective but also safe. Just see to it that you follow directions for preparation and application.
Always remember that apple cider vinegar treatment for ringworm infection is not hard neither complicated. Moreover, you must always have clean and disinfected hands before preparing these home remedies for ringworm treatment.
If you do this, then contamination and successful treatment chances are about a hundred percent!
However, if symptoms persist even after a few weeks of use, don’t hesitate to consult your dermatologist.
We hope this article came to your help; if you have any questions or confusions regarding it feel free to ask us.
Also, don’t forget to share your experience with us by leaving your comments below.
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