5 Natural Remedies for Ringworm and Prevention Tips

Dr. Eric Berg 04/17/2024

Ringworm is a highly contagious fungal skin infection characterized by a scaly, worm-shaped rash that can appear on any body part.

Learn about the symptoms and causes of this common fungal infection and discover five effective natural remedies for ringworm.

Ringworm on skin

What is ringworm?

Ringworm is a highly contagious and persistent skin infection caused by fungi belonging to the tinea species. 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 suffer 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 ringworm symptoms that may appear in different infections.

1. Scalp

Ringworm on the scalp is often caused by tinea capitis fungus, creating a circular hair loss that can enlarge or spread to other rings.

Ringworm patches on the scalp are typically inflamed, itchy, and red.

2. Groin

Groin infections, also known as jock itch, are linked to tinea cruris fungal infections. It appears mostly in men and teen boys and is related to wearing damp clothes after physical activity.

This ringworm infection creates itchy, scaly, red blotches near the inner thighs.

Athletes foot

3. Feet

Ringworm infections affecting the feet, also known as athlete’s foot, originate from the tinea pedis fungus.

This particular type of ringworm appears between the toes, heels, or soles of the feet but can also spread all over the feet, causing red, itchy, and peeling splotches.

A severe athlete’s foot can 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 does not spread beyond that area.

6. Lower face

Ringworm on the lower face is mostly seen in men and occurs when the tinea barbae fungus infects the skin and hair follicles around the beard, mustache, and neck region.

Public shower

What causes ringworm?

Fungi species associated with ringworm are naturally found on human skin. However, warm and moist environments encourage fungal proliferation, resulting in overgrowth and spreading of the infection.

Ringworm is highly contagious and usually spread 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

Selection of natural remedies

5 natural remedies for ringworm

Conventional ringworm treatment typically involves using over-the-counter (OTC) antifungal creams. In severe cases, prescription antifungal medications may be needed.

However, several natural home remedies can be used instead to help soothe skin irritation and reduce fungal spread.

Here are five home remedies for ringworm rash.

1. Garlic oil

Garlic is a superfood proven to have 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 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 to the ringworm infection until symptoms resolve.

2. Coconut oil

Coconut oil has been studied 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.”

Tea tree oil

3. Tea tree oil

Tea tree essential oil has a longstanding use in traditional medicine for its 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 tea tree 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.

Soak a cotton ball in undiluted 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 on leg

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 wash 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.

Black rubber slippers

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 a cleaner effective against T. mentagrophytes, vacuum floors, and wash bed linens and towels in hot water.

Remember to wear gloves while cleaning to avoid potential contact with infected objects.

Ringworm ointment

Key takeaways

Ringworm is a fungal infection that can affect any place on the body harboring moisture and heat. It’s highly contagious and typically passes from coming into contact with infected people, pets, or objects.

Fortunately, there are various natural remedies for ringworm including garlic, lemongrass, and tea tree essential oil. In addition, topical treatment with coconut oil and apple cider vinegar has shown the potential to help manage and prevent fungal skin infections.

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.

However, natural alternatives such as garlic oil, lemongrass oil, and tea tree oil may help eradicate ringworm in as little as two weeks.

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 potent antimicrobial properties and can help manage various bacterial and fungal infections.

5. Can apple cider vinegar kill ringworm?

Yes, apple cider vinegar (ACV) showed the potential to trigger microbial death in various fungal species if topically applied to the affected area. However, take care not to over-apply ACV, as it’s highly acidic, which may lead to further skin irritation.