Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the skin and is caused by fungi called dermatophytes. It appears as small red spots that spread over the skin. Ringworm is contagious and spreads through direct contact with infected areas. It can also spread through clothing and other objects that come into contact with the infected area.
Ringworm is common among children and adults who spend time outdoors. The fungus thrives in warm, humid conditions and feeds on dead skin cells.
Ringworm is contagious. To prevent spreading it, wear shoes and socks while playing outside. Keep your hands clean by washing them frequently with soap and water. Avoid sharing towels, bedding, and personal items (such as hats) that touch the skin.
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You can try using these natural remedies to treat ringworms fast and easily.
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid which kills fungus-causing ringworm. Mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the affected area twice a day.
2. Castor Oil
Castor oil contains ricinoleic acid which helps get rid of ringworms. Rub castor oil on the affected area twice a month.
3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil contains lauric acid which works well against fungus. Massage coconut oil on the affected area two times a week.
4. Egg Whites
Egg whites contain lecithin which helps eliminate fungus. Make a paste from egg white and water. Apply the paste to the affected area three times a week.
5. Honey
Honey contains hydrogen peroxide which eliminates fungus. Mix honey with water in a small container. Dip a cotton ball in the mixture and apply to the affected area.
6. Lemon Juice
Lemon juice contains citric acid which gets rid of fungus. Squeeze fresh lemon juice on the affected area once a day.
7. Olive Oil
Olive oil contains oleic acid which gets rid of fungi. Mix olive oil with water in a bowl and rub the mixture all over the affected area.
8. Petroleum Jelly
Petroleum jelly contains salicylic acid which destroys fungus. Spread petroleum jelly on the affected area and leave it overnight. Rinse the next morning.
9. Rosemary
Rosemary contains thymol which gets rid of fungus and prevents it from spreading. Put some rosemary leaves in a glass jar. Fill the jar with alcohol (such as rubbing alcohol) and close the lid tightly. Shake the jar daily for at least 30 days. Discard the herbs after they turn brown.
10. Salt Water
Salt water contains sodium chloride which kills fungus. Soak a cloth in salt water and place it on the affected area. Leave it overnight.
11. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil contains terpinen-4-ol which gets rid of fungi and prevents them from spreading. Mix tea tree oil with water in a spray bottle and spray the mixture on the affected area. Repeat this process every night before going to bed.
12. White Vinegar
White vinegar contains acetic acid that gets rid of fungus. Mix 1 part white vinegar with 4 parts water in a bowl. Use the mixture to wash the affected area.
13. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel contains tannins which destroy fungus. Soak a cotton ball in witch hazel and use it to wipe the affected area.
14. Zinc Oxide
Zinc oxide contains zinc ions which get rid of fungus. Mix 2 tablespoons of zinc oxide powder with 1 cup of water. Add a few drops of essential oils if you want. Apply the mixture to affected area. Let it dry completely before washing off.
15. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera contains aloin which gets rid of fungus, especially ringworm. Cut open an aloe vera leaf and squeeze out its gel. Place the gel on the affected area. Cover with plastic wrap and let it sit overnight. Wash off the following morning.
17. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains malic acid which gets rid fungus. Mix apple cider vinegar with water in a bowl until the solution becomes slightly acidic. Then pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the mixture onto the affected area and let it dry.
18. Baking Soda
Mixing baking soda with warm water will help reduce inflammation. You can mix up a batch of baking soda and keep it in your refrigerator so you always have it handy.
19. Black Walnut Hulls
Black walnut hulls are rich in tannins which destroy fungi. Crush black walnut hulls using a mortar and pestle. Make sure to wear gloves while crushing the nuts. Mix crushed black walnuts with equal amounts of honey and apply the mixture directly to the affected area.
20. Borax
Borax contains boric acid which gets rid of yeast infections. Mix 3 cups of water with 1 tablespoon of borax. Dip a clean cloth in the solution and then wring it out. Wipe the affected area with the damp cloth.
21. Epsom Salts
Epsom salts contain magnesium sulfate which helps prevent yeast infections. Mix 1 teaspoon of epsom salts with 8 ounces of hot water. Pour the mixture into a large basin. Dip a towel in the mixture and then wring it thoroughly. Rub the affected area with the wet towel.
22. Garlic
Garlic contains allicin which destroys bacteria and fungi. Crush garlic cloves and rub them over the affected area. Let the mixture dry completely before rinsing off.
23. Honey
Honey has antibacterial properties which make it effective against fungus infections. Mix equal amounts of honey and olive oil together in a small bowl. Spread the mixture on the affected areas. Let it dry completely. Rinse off the next day.
24. Lactic Acid
Lactic acid is found naturally in milk products. Milk products contain lactic acid which makes them effective against fungus infections. Soak a cotton pad in milk and then put it on the affected area for 10 minutes. Remove the cotton pad and wash off the affected area.
25. Olive Oil
Olive oil contains oleic acid which fights fungus. Mix equal parts of olive oil and water together. Put this mixture in a spray bottle. Spray it on the affected area and let the mixture dry completely.
26. Zinc Oxide Powder
Zinc oxide powder contains zinc ions which fight fungus. Mix 2 teaspoons of zinc oxide powder with 2 tablespoons of warm water. Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the mixture and then squeeze it. Rub the affected area until the mixture dries up.
27. Yogurt
Yogurt contains lactobacillus bacteria which help fight fungus. Combine yogurt with water in a bowl and mix well. Dip a clean cloth dipped in the mixture into a bowl of ice water. Squeeze the cloth to remove excess moisture. Wrap the moistened cloth around the affected area. Keep it on overnight. The next morning, rinse off the affected area with lukewarm water.