At a glance
Ringworm is a common and highly contagious fungal skin infection that thrives in warm, moist environments. It can affect many areas of the body and is easily spread through contact with infected people, animals, or surfaces. Understanding how ringworm develops and spreads is essential for managing symptoms and reducing the risk of reinfection.
Ringworm is a highly contagious fungal skin infection characterized by a scaly, ring-shaped rash that can appear on any part of the body.
Learn about the symptoms and causes of this common fungal infection and discover five effective natural remedies for ringworm.
What is ringworm?
Ringworm is a highly contagious and persistent skin infection caused by fungi belonging to the Tinea genus.
The term ringworm originates from the infection’s red, raised, and circular appearance, resembling a worm curling inward.
Though anyone can contract ringworm, it primarily affects children and men. This fungal infection is very common, and it’s estimated that between 20 and 25 percent of the world’s population suffers from ringworm at least once in their lifetime.
Watch the video below to learn how to deal with ringworm naturally.
Symptoms of ringworm
A ringworm infection is typically characterized by a circular rash, itchiness, and scaly, cracked skin.
Although ringworm can infect any body part, it most commonly affects the scalp, groin, feet, hands, nails, and lower face. The symptoms and appearance of ringworm can vary depending on the exact fungal species and the infection’s location.
Here are common infection sites and common symptoms associated with ringworm.
1. Scalp
Ringworm on the scalp is often caused by the Tinea capitis fungus, resulting in a circular area of hair loss that can enlarge and spread to other areas.
Ringworm patches on the scalp are typically inflamed, itchy, and red.
2. Groin
Groin infections, also known as jock itch, are associated with Tinea cruris, a type of fungal infection. It appears mostly in men and teen boys and is related to wearing damp clothes after physical activity.
This type of ringworm infection often creates itchy, scaly, red blotches near the inner thighs.
3. Feet
Ringworm infections affecting the feet, also known as athlete’s foot, are most commonly caused by the Tinea pedis fungus.
This particular type of ringworm typically appears between the toes, heels, or soles of the feet but can also spread to the entire foot, causing red, itchy, and peeling splotches.
A severe case of athlete’s foot can also have an unpleasant odor and may be accompanied by oozing blisters.
4. Hands
Ringworm can also infect the hands, typically appearing in multiple red, itchy, round patches on the back of the hands.
5. Toenails and fingernails
An infection with the Tinea unguium fungus can lead to thick, discolored, and deformed fingernails and toenails. While infected nails may cause itching on the fingers or toes, the infection typically doesn’t spread beyond that area.
6. Lower face
Ringworm on the lower face is primarily seen in men and occurs when the Tinea barbae fungus infects the skin and hair follicles in the beard, mustache, and neck regions.
What causes ringworm?
Fungal species associated with ringworm are naturally found on human skin. However, warm and moist environments encourage the proliferation of fungi, resulting in overgrowth and the spread of the infection.
Ringworm is highly contagious and usually spreads by coming in contact with:
- An infected person
- Animals with ringworm, such as dogs or cats
- Contaminated items used by an infected person
- Infected surfaces, such as locker rooms or public showers
5 natural remedies for ringworm
Conventional ringworm treatment typically involves using over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal creams and, in more severe cases, prescription antifungal medications.
In addition, several natural home remedies can also help soothe skin irritation and reduce fungal spread.
Here are five home remedies for ringworm rash.
1. Garlic oil
Garlic is a bona fide superfood with antifungal and antimicrobial properties that may inhibit the growth of fungi and bacteria on the skin.
A study published in the Avicenna Journal of Phytomedicine found that many fungi species are sensitive to garlic, including Trichophyton, a type of fungus associated with ringworm.
“To manage microbial infections, mix two drops of garlic-infused oil with one tablespoon of olive or coconut oil and apply it to the affected skin on a daily basis,” explains Dr. Berg.
Alternatively, blend crushed garlic cloves with a carrier oil and apply the mixture to the ringworm infection until the symptoms resolve.
2. Coconut oil
Coconut oil has long been recognized for its natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and may be combined with essential oils to enhance its effectiveness against fungal infections.
Evidence published in the Nepal Journal of Dermatology, Venereology & Leprology
concluded, “Virgin coconut oil can be easily used as a topical emollient and antifungal preparation along with systemic antifungals in treating ringworm.”
3. Tea tree oil
Tea tree essential oil has a long-standing use in traditional medicine due to its potential antifungal properties and as a natural remedy for bacterial skin conditions.
Research published by the Australasian Journal of Dermatology showed a marked improvement in athlete’s foot after four weeks of topical tea tree oil application.
To use tea tree oil for ringworm, mix a few drops of tea tree oil with one tablespoon of olive or coconut oil. Apply to infected skin daily until you see improvement.
4. Apple cider vinegar
There are many benefits of apple cider vinegar (ACV), including its impressive antifungal potential.
According to research published in the Journal of Prosthodontics, ACV triggered microbial death in various fungi within 30 minutes of application.
You can soak a cotton ball in ACV and apply it to the ringworm infection daily. Take care not to over-apply ACV, as it’s highly acidic and may cause further skin irritation.
5. Lemongrass oil
Lemongrass oil contains several antifungal components that may be an effective natural alternative to conventional ringworm treatment.
A study published in Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology showed that lemongrass essential oil was promising against fungal activity and helped prevent the further spreading of microbial overgrowth.
While several natural remedies may be beneficial in managing ringworm, it’s essential to seek medical treatment if symptoms worsen.
A healthcare provider can assess your overall health status and formulate a treatment plan, including prescription creams or oral antifungal medication.
Ringworm prevention
Ringworm is contagious and can spread quickly. Fortunately, you can take plenty of steps to prevent fungal growth and protect yourself from infection.
Here are six ways to prevent future ringworm infections.
1. Practice good hygiene
Ringworm can propagate and spread on skin that isn’t clean and dry. Shower after sweating and dry your body thoroughly to minimize moisture.
It’s also crucial to avoid wearing damp clothing and regularly washing your sheets to prevent fungal growth.
2. Don’t share personal items
Avoid sharing personal items, such as towels, clothes, or brushes, that may be contaminated with ringworm.
This is an especially good rule for school-aged kids to avoid contagious infections, including ringworm, lice, or intestinal parasites.
3. Treat infected pets
Ringworm is common in animals and can be transferred from pets to people.
If your pet has ringworm, visit a veterinarian for prompt treatment. In addition, it’s crucial to thoroughly vacuum, disinfect, and wash any areas or surfaces the pet may have come in contact with.
Washing your hands after playing with pets and wearing gloves to handle an infected animal can also reduce ringworm exposure.
4. Wear shoes in shared spaces
Public spaces such as gym showers or locker rooms are an ideal environment for the growth of fungus and bacteria, and a common site of ringworm contamination.
Wear shoes in changing rooms and flip-flops or shower sliders when using public showers to minimize the risk of contracting athlete’s foot.
5. Wear loose, dry clothing
Fungus thrives in hot, moist environments, and you can help prevent ringworm infections by wearing loose clothing that wicks away moisture.
If you’re an athlete or sweat excessively, change out of damp clothes as soon as possible and shower immediately.
Ensure that your shoes allow air circulation, and change your socks at least once daily to keep your feet dry.
6. Regularly clean surfaces
Ringworm-causing fungi can live on surfaces for several weeks or even months.
If you’ve recently had a ringworm infection in your home, disinfect surfaces with an antimicrobial cleaner, vacuum floors, and wash bed linens and towels in hot water.
Remember to wear gloves while cleaning to avoid potential contact with infected objects.
Key takeaways
- Ringworm is caused by fungi belonging to the Tinea genus and spreads through direct contact with infected skin, animals, objects, or shared surfaces.
- Symptoms often include circular, scaly rashes, itching, and skin irritation, with appearance varying by location and fungal species.
- Natural remedies such as garlic oil, coconut oil, tea tree oil, apple cider vinegar, and lemongrass oil may help reduce fungal growth and soothe skin.
- Good hygiene practices, keeping skin clean and dry, and avoiding shared personal items help limit fungal spread.
- Preventive steps, such as treating infected pets, wearing protective footwear in shared spaces, and regularly cleaning surfaces, can reduce the risk of reinfection.
FAQ
1. What are the best natural remedies for ringworm?
Some of the best natural ringworm remedies include garlic oil, tea tree oil, and lemongrass oil, all of which have anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. In addition, oregano oil and pure aloe vera gel have been found beneficial in managing ringworm-related skin issues.
2. Is ringworm a fungus or a parasite?
Though the name may suggest that ringworm is a parasite, it’s a fungal infection. Ringworm is caused by fungal overgrowth on the skin and can infect any part of the body. However, it’s generally seen on the scalp, groin, hands, and feet.
3. How long does it take to get rid of ringworm naturally?
Most healthcare providers treat ringworm with antifungal creams, which can take several weeks to clear the infection.
4. Can tea tree oil get rid of ringworm?
Yes, tea tree oil may be an effective home remedy for ringworm. Tea tree oil has potential antimicrobial properties and may help manage various bacterial and fungal infections.
5. Can apple cider vinegar kill ringworm?
Yes, apple cider vinegar (ACV) has shown potential to trigger microbial death in various fungal species when applied topically to the affected area. However, be cautious not to overapply ACV, as it’s highly acidic, which may lead to further skin irritation.
