How Effective is Apple Cider Vinegar for Ringworm Treatment?

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.

Ringworm is a highly contagious condition.

Ringworm can appear on your beard, chest, arms, legs, feet, and scalp [2]

Like bacteria, fungi also exist in the body, and on the skin [3]. Most of the time, these microorganisms do not cause any problem.

However, if there’s an overgrowth, or when they multiply too quickly, that’s when infection occurs. [4]

There are three different kinds of fungi that cause ringworm including Trichophyton, Microsporum, and Epidermophyton.

The problem with some fungal infections is that they keep on coming back.

That’s because some strains of fungi may grow resistant to medications. [2]

If your infection recurs, it would be a good idea to rely on natural solutions.

One that you should try is apple cider vinegar, which many people attest as effective and safe.

This article reviews the properties, benefits, and uses of apple cider vinegar for ringworm infection.

Properties of Apple Cider Vinegar

Vinegar is French for “sour wine”.

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.

Second, bacteria are mixed in to turn crushed apples into acetic acid. [5]

That’s how you get apple cider vinegar.

Apple cider vinegar contains many important nutrients such as B vitamins, vitamin C, iron, calcium, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium [6].

It’s also a good source of highly beneficial compounds and fiber like acetic acid, citric acid, and pectin.

Since ancient times, people have been using apple cider vinegar to cure a wide range of ailments. It is a popular home remedy for sore throat, upset stomach, leg cramps, hypertension, sinusitis, acne, sunburn, shingles, dandruff, insect bites, vaginal infections, arthritis. etc [7].

Some of these uses are based on historical anecdotes. While scientific literature have established other beneficial effects of ACV.

Scientific studies confirm its ability to tone down bacterial infections [8].

It is also a boon for those who are struggling to lose weight. It may aid in burning fat and calories [9].

Those who have high blood pressure can also turn to apple cider vinegar [10].

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.

Why Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Ringworm Remedy?

Apple cider vinegar is “the most popular remedy for ringworm.”

It is the “all-natural ringworm treatment”. ACV works safely and effectively even on children’s sensitive skin.

It’s also said to be a good “non-toxic alternative” to fungal medications.

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 does apple cider vinegar kill ringworm?

A 1998 study conducted by a group of Korean researchers probed the antifungal properties of vinegar [11].

Results reveal that vinegar has antifungal activities against Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton mentagrophytes and Candida albicans.

These are the fungal strains that commonly cause infections on the skin, including ringworm.

The active compounds in this vinegar work in preventing the spread of fungal strains.

According to Hong Kong Journal of Dermatology, the application of 5 percent acetic acid can suppress the formation and activities of Trichophyton rubrum fungus [12].

Indeed, there’s sufficient evidence indicating the efficacy of apple cider vinegar as a natural fungicidal.

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Ringworm Treatment?

Here are the various ways you can use apple cider vinegar to kill ringworm.

These ACV home remedies for ringworm come in combination with other natural ingredients. The ingredients also have potent antifungal activities.

1. Mix Apple Cider Vinegar, Tea Tree Oil, and Water

Tea tree oil is a good antifungal agent. It may help in controlling the growth and spread of fungal strains that cause ringworm. [13]

How to use ACV and tea tree oil for ringworm treatment:

Combine 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 2 drops tea tree oil. Pour the solution in a glass of clean water. 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. [14]

How you may use ACV with aloe vera for ringworm remedy:

Mix 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel with a teaspoon of 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 to get rid of ringworm fast.

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.

How to prepare ACV bath for ringworm treatment:

Pour 1 cup of 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, you may apply apple cider vinegar to the skin undiluted.

How to apply undiluted ACV on ringworm infection:

Soak a cloth in a cup of 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 agent. It may help neutralize infection-causing fungus. [15]

How to use ACV and garlic for ringworm natural treatment:

Crush some garlic cloves to extract juice. Alternatively, you may boil garlic cloves in one cup of water. Put garlic extract in a bowl. Add a cup of 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. [16]

Method of using onion and ACV for ringworm treatment:

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 1-2 tablespoons of 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

You may use many essential oils to treat ringworm. Some of these are oregano oil, chamomile oil, and thyme oil. [17] [18]

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

How to use ACV and essential oils for ringworm treatment :

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.

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 has immense therapeutic properties. The uses and health benefits of turmeric come from the active compound- curcumin 1.

A recent medical experiment revealed that the compound is a potent anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant agent. [19]

A powerful blend of ACV and turmeric powder can fight off the ringworm infection in the quickest possible time.

Here’s how you can use ACV and turmeric for ringworm infection:

Add 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder to a tablespoon of 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 may 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. [20]

You may use ACV and baking soda mixture on the ringworm as an effective ringworm remedy.

Home remedy for ringworm using ACV and baking soda:

Combine 2 tablespoons of baking soda and ACV each 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.

10. Consume ACV with Lemon, Honey, Cinnamon, and Water

Lemon, honey, and cinnamon powder are readily available kitchen ingredients. These have potent antifungal and anti-inflammatory values. [16] 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

How to prepare ACV detox drink for ringworm treatment :

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. It will improve your immune defense against ringworm, eczema, acne and many other skin disorders.

How to Use Apple Cider Vinegar for Scalp Ringworm?

To have healthy hair, it’s essential to have a healthy scalp.

Apple cider vinegar is great for keeping the scalp and hair healthy. It cleanses the hair, reduces hair loss, prevents dry scalp, dandruff and itching.

ACV may provide 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. The spicy leaves are the first aid for various health problems. Peppermint may treat skin infections, menstrual cramps, indigestion, nausea, stress, hypersensitivity, muscle and joint pains, common cold, flu, etc. [21]

The strong antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties of peppermint leaves can fight fungal infection such as ringworm. The calming qualities of the leaves may soothe irritations and itch of the inflamed skin. [22]

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.

How to make ACV and peppermint antifungal spray for scalp ringworm:

Blend some peppermint leaves and collect the juice. Now, add 1 cup of ACV and warm water each to the juice. 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.

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. It is perfect for treating children with ringworm on their scalp.

You have to follow the simple steps mentioned below:

ACV for ringworm treatment in children:

Dilute 2-3 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a cup of water. Soak a cotton ball with the diluted water and dab on the affected area on the scalp. Do this three times a week for effective results

Ringworm Risk Factors

Ringworm may spread from one person to another through direct contact of infected skin [23].

You can also get this infection by using contaminated objects such as towels, clothing, comb, and so on [24].

It’s also possible to get infected from exposure to contaminated soil or animals.

The fungal strains causing ringworm also thrive in moist and wet environments.

If you use public restrooms, showers, gym or swimming pools; you are prone to this fungal infection.

The usual victims of this prevalent skin disorder are children, but it can also affect teens and adults.

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. Different animals can transmit 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 adult animals. So, they can easily show the symptoms of ringworm infection. Adult animals do not usually show these symptoms. Therefore, you must be very careful and keep your pet’s skin condition in check.

The type of ringworm infection transmitted from animals to humans is different from the type transmitted from human to human.

Q. Is there any other type of skin condition that looks like ringworm infection?

Yes, unfortunately. Other types of skin conditions and infections like ringworm are pityriasis rosea, impetigo cellulitis, and seborrhea.

It is best to consult a doctor for proper examination and treatment.

Q. How do I prevent ringworm infection from appearing again in the future?

As you already know, the ring is highly contagious. You must take the necessary steps to prevent it from spreading and recurring again. The best possible way of avoiding the recurrence of ringworm 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. These natural remedies may treat ringworm on beard, face, scalp, groin, nails, etc.

If you want to treat ringworm on the scalp using ACV, 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 Apple cider vinegar for ringworm in 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 ACV application before it takes full effect. Be patient. Apple cider vinegar definitely treats 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 may help to treat 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!

When to See a Doctor

You may treat ringworm using natural remedies, unless or until you have a certain type of ringworm infection. If you have the more complex form of the tinea capitis infection, you must consult a doctor for treatment. [25] Your dermatologist will prescribe you with antifungal medication. You need to take the traditional antifungal drugs for 1 to 3 months. However, certain strains of fungi may grow resistant to these medications and the infection may recur.

To Sum Up

Apart from conventional use in cooking, ACV is a well-known home remedy for treating many health problems.

It is always best to rely on natural home remedies like ACV for ringworm. It is because many fungal strains can 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.

You should disinfect the hands before preparing these home remedies for ringworm treatment.

If symptoms persist even after a few weeks of use, don’t hesitate to consult your dermatologist.

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