22 Fast Acting & Simple Home Remedies for Ringworm

Ringworm is a contagious fungus that can sometimes be hard to get rid of, yet with the help of home remedies for ringworm, you can find relief in no time. Ringworm is quite common and is seen in a wide variety of individuals and ringworm can appear on just about any surface of the body. Due to the contagiousness and the fact that Ringworm can thrive nearly anywhere on the body, natural remedies for ringworm are more than useful.

Causes

Contrary to popular belief, ringworm is not caused by an actual worm. The name for ringworm is given for the telltale red ring that forms when you have become infected. Ringworm, medically defined as tinea, is caused by fungi that grow and thrive on the outermost layer of skin. The ringworm fungi thrive in moist and warm environments and you can come into contact with the ringworm fungi just about anywhere.

Ringworm is caused by dermatophytes, which are fungus. The dermatophytes will feed on the keratin that the body produces. Keratin is located on the hair shafts, the nails, or the outermost layers of skin which is why you only see ringworm appearing in these areas of the body.

Ringworm fungi can be present in pools, tanning beds, showers, or locker rooms. Not to mention an infected person can transfer the fungus through towels, hairbrushes or combs, or articles of clothing. Ringworm is most commonly seen due to human and human contact. If you come into direct contact with an individual with ringworm and touch the infected area, even if by accident, you will soon find yourself with the fungi.

Ringworm is not limited to infecting humans. Cats and dogs can also carry and pass along the fungi. Even if you do not have pets, if you come into contact with sheep, horses, or cattle that are also infected, these animals will also pass along the fungi. Besides being spread through animals, there is also a chance of catching ringworm from the soil.

No matter where the ringworm fungi are growing, some people are more susceptible than others. Children, those who have been previously infected, or individuals living in warm climates are most likely to become infected with ringworm. Not to mention individuals who play contact sports, such as mountain biking, wrestling, are also more prone to becoming infected with ringworm.

Signs and Symptoms

Depending on the individual, ringworm can show different signs or symptoms. However, there are many common signs and symptoms associated with ringworm and an infected individual can show only one sign or symptom or even several.

Not only can individuals exhibit specific signs or symptoms, but there are also specific cases of ringworm. These specific cases of ringworm are named after the area of the body where the fungi start to infect. 

The Different Types of Ringworm are:

• Tinea Corporis- this type of ringworm will show up on most areas of the body, such as the arms, legs, or torso.
• Tinea Pedis- often called ‘athlete’s foot’, this form of ringworm will show up on the foot. It is usually seen in between the toes.
• Tinea Cruris- commonly known as ‘jock itch’, this type of ringworm will show in the groin area, the upper and inner thighs, as well as the buttocks.
• Tinea Capitis- occurs on the scalp and in the hair.
• Tinea Manuum- an infection of ringworm on the hands or the palms.
• Tinea Barbae- a ringworm infection located in a beard, goatee, or moustache. Usually only seen in men.
• Tinea Unguium- ringworm infection of the fingernails or toenails or the nail beds.
• Tinea Faciei- an infection of ringworm located on the face

What does ringworm look like?

Signs and symptoms that are common with ringworm include:

• A red, scaly, ring appearing on the infection site
• Itchy and red patches
• Patches of skin that develop blisters or oozing
• If the scalp is infected, bald patches may develop
• If the nails are affected, they can thicken, discolor, or crack
• Raised patches varying in size
• Rashes that peel or crack
• Large, round patches
• Patches with a red or brown center
• Dry or scaly patches that have edges with bumps that look like blisters
• Severe itchiness on the infected areas
• Pain or heightened sensitivity in the infected area

It is very common for the ringworm infection to start showing signs or symptoms after four to ten days after the initial infection. In the case of scalp infection, you will not see signs of a ringworm infection until at least ten days after the initial infection.

If you have noticed any of the signs or symptoms and you have not been infected with ringworm in the past, it is advised to see a doctor so they can take a skin scraping to properly identify the infection like ringworm. There are other cases of skin infections that are similar to ringworm so if you are not familiar with how a ringworm infection will react to your body, a doctor’s diagnosis is recommended.

Treatments

There is a wide range of home remedies to get rid of ringworm that will help to ease your symptoms and end the infection. Several of the following home remedies will help to cure the ringworm infection by killing the fungi or inhibiting further growth or spread. The following home remedies can be prepared quickly and easily, allowing you to treat the infected area sooner, which in turn will allow for a faster healing time.

1. Direct Application of Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is known for its anti-fungal properties. When it is directly applied, it will provide an acidic environment in which the dermatophytes, the fungi that cause the ringworm, cannot thrive. Regular use of apple cider vinegar can lead to the complete elimination of the fungi. Apple cider vinegar is also safe to use on pets and children since it is non-toxic.

Required Ingredients:

• Apple cider vinegar
• Small cloth or cotton balls

Process:

• Clean the infected area and gently dry.
• Apply a few drops of the apple cider vinegar to the cotton ball.
• Place the cotton ball onto the ringworm.
• Repeat three to four times each day.
• Alternatively, you can soak a small cloth in a bowl with apple cider vinegar and apply it to the infected area twice per day for at least thirty minutes.

Note: It is important to test the skin for sensitivity before using apple cider vinegar directly on the infected areas. Apply a small amount onto a non-infected area of the skin. If severe burning or itching occurs, your skin is too sensitive to use this remedy.

2. Direct Application of Garlic, Honey, and Olive Oil Mixture

Garlic is a common home remedy for a variety of fungal infections. This is due to the high amounts of anti-fungal properties found in garlic. These powerful agents are highly effective in curing ringworm altogether. When the garlic is combined with the honey and olive oil, it becomes a triple threat anti-fungal remedy.

Required Ingredients:

• One to two cloves of fresh, raw, garlic
• Three tablespoons of olive oil
• Three tablespoons of honey
• Mortar and pestle
• Small bowl
• Bandages

Process:

• Peel and crush the garlic cloves with the use of the mortar and pestle. Crush the garlic until it reaches a paste like form.
• Add the crushed garlic to the bowl and combine with the olive oil and honey. Stir well.
• Apply the mixture to the affected areas.
• Cover with a bandage and leave for one hour.
• Remove the bandage and wash the area using warm water.
• Repeat this two to three times each day for at least two weeks.

3. Direct Application of Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is a wonderful antiseptic and anti-fungal agent that is extracted from a Tea Tree or Melaleuca alternifolia. Using tea tree oil is one of the best remedies for curing fungal infections.

A 2002 study from the Australasian Journal of Dermatology showed great results. The researchers in that study treated 158 patients with a placebo, 25% or 50% tea tree oil. The participants applied the oils to the areas that were affected for one month.

At the end of the study, what was considered a significant improvement was seen in over 70 percent of the individuals that used the 25% tea tree oil. In addition, 68% of the individuals that used the 50% tee tree solution showed significant improvement. 

Required Ingredients:

• One and ½ tablespoons of 100% pure tea tree oil extract
• Cotton ball
• One cup of warm water (this is optional)

Process:

• Take the cotton ball and apply a few drops of the tea tree oil.
• Apply the cotton ball onto the infected area.
• Repeat this method three to four times per day.
• Alternatively, you can add one and ½ tablespoons of tea tree oil to the cup of warm water. Follow the same treatment as listed above.
• Either method should be used for a duration of three to four weeks.

Note: It is important to use 100% tea tree oil. If it is diluted with other oils it will not be as effective in curing the ringworm infection.

4. Direct Application of Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a safe and highly effective remedy for curing ringworm. This is because coconut oil contains Lauric Acid which acts as a powerful anti-fungal agent. The Lauric Acid found in coconut oil will kill the ringworm fungus and soothe the skin. This allows for a quick and gentle healing process that is safe to use on children, as well as pets.

Required Ingredients:

• Coconut Oil (an organic, unrefined, and non-hydrogenated coconut oil is best)

Process:

• Apply a small amount of coconut oil directly onto the affected area.
• Massage gently for three to four minutes
• Repeat this treatment three to four times per day
• You can also apply the coconut oil just before you go to bed and leave it on overnight.
• Continue this treatment for up to three weeks.

Note: Make sure to follow through with this treatment for at least one week after you are no longer showing signs of ringworm. This will help to make sure that the ringworm does not reappear.

5. Direct Application of Mustard Seed Paste

Mustard seeds help to reduce redness, inflammation, and itchiness caused by the ringworm infection. Applying a mustard seed paste directly to the area can help reduce the urge to itch which is important in preventing the spread of ringworm. Itching the ringworm will not only enable it to spread, but it will further irritate and damage your skin. Using mustard seeds will help relieve you of the itchiness associated with ringworm.

Required Ingredients:

• One tablespoon of mustard seeds
• Two tablespoons of warm water
• Mortar and pestle
• Small bowl
• Bandages

Process:

• Grind the mustard seeds with the use of the mortar and pestle.
• Combine the mustard seeds and the water in a small bowl and mix well.
• Apply the paste directly onto the affected area.
• Cover with a bandage and leave it on for at least one hour.
• Repeat twice per day throughout the ringworm infection to relieve your symptoms.

Note: You may also soak the mustard seeds in warm water for half an hour and then grind them into a paste.

6. Direct Application of Licorice

Licorice powder contains many anti-fungal properties that help to eliminate fungus, ringworm included. Directly applying a licorice paste will help cure the ringworm infection promptly.

Required Ingredients:

• Six teaspoons of powdered licorice
• One cup of water
• Small pot
• Cotton balls

Process:

• Mix the powdered licorice and the water in the small pot.
• Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
• Turn down the heat and simmer for fifteen minutes.
• Remove from the heat and let cool until at room temperature.
• Apply the mixture to a cotton ball and place onto the ringworm infection.
• Repeat this method three times each day until the ringworm is gone.

7. Direct Application of Jojoba Oil and Lavender Oil Combination

Required Ingredients:

• One teaspoon of jojoba oil
• One to two drops of lavender oil
• Small bowl
• Cotton balls

Process:

• Combine the jojoba and lavender oils in the small bowl to mix
• Dip the cotton ball into the mixture
• Apply the cotton ball directly to the ringworm
• Massage gently
• Repeat three to four times per day until the ringworm is gone.

8. Direct Application of Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera gel is a great natural remedy for a variety of skin conditions. Aloe Vera contains anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-septic, and anti-microbial properties that aid in the gentle healing of several skin conditions, including ringworm. The Aloe Vera gel will allow for the full healing of ringworm infection and it also will help to soothe the itchy, irritated skin.

Required Ingredients:

• Fresh Aloe Vera leaves

Process:

• Cut off a section of an Aloe Vera leaf. You will find the Aloe Vera gel inside.
• Take the gel and apply it directly to the ringworm.
• Leave the Aloe Vera on your ringworm for twenty to thirty minutes.
• Wash off with water.
• Repeat three times per day until the ringworm has healed.

Note: If you do not have access to a fresh Aloe Vera plant, using bottled Aloe Vera gel is a great substitute.

9. Direct Application of a Vinegar and Salt Paste

White vinegar and salt will allow for your skin to return to normal pH levels. This enables a faster healing time and will also help to soothe itchy skin. Using this paste will not only help relieve your symptoms but will also heal the ringworm infection.

Required Ingredients:

• Two and ½ tablespoons of salt
• One tablespoon of white vinegar
• Small bowl

Process:

• Combine the salt and vinegar until paste forms.
• Apply the paste directly to the ringworm.
• Leave on the skin for five to ten minutes.
• Rinse with water.
• Repeat this treatment once per day for at least one week.

10. Consuming Lemongrass Tea

Lemongrass is a natural anti-itch agent. When you drink lemongrass tea, it helps combat the symptoms from the inside. Lemongrass can also be applied topically to help relieve your symptoms as well as cure the ringworm altogether.

Required Ingredients:

• Lemongrass teabags
• One cup of hot water

Process:

• Add the teabag to the hot water and let steep for three minutes.
• Remove the teabag (but do not throw it away!)
• Drink the tea and apply the tea bag directly to the infected area for ten minutes
• Drink at least three cups of this tea each day until the ringworm is gone.

Note: Make sure to save the teabag each time to directly apply to the ringworm.

11. Direct Application of Colloidal Silver

Colloidal Silver is a fully natural compound that comes in a liquid or gel form. This very powerful healing agent will destroy several hundred dangerous microorganisms, including fungus such as ringworm. This remedy is also very gentle and can be used on children and pets.

Required Ingredients:

• Colloidal Silver (liquid or gel)
• Cotton ball

Process:

• Apply the gel and rub it into the affected area.
• If you are using the liquid form, apply some to the cotton ball and apply the cotton ball to the skin.
• Repeat the method (whichever one you end up using) twice per day until the ringworm has gone.

12. Consuming or Applying Olive Leaf Extract

Olive leaf is an ancient method that offers anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties which aid in internal and external healing of a wide range of afflictions. When you consume olive leaf, it acts as an anti-viral and boosts the immune system which aids in the healing process.

Required Ingredients:

• One tablespoon of powdered olive leaf extract
• ½ tablespoon of olive oil
• Small bowl

Process:

• Combine the olive leaf extract and the olive oil in a bowl.
• Mix well until paste forms.
• Apply the paste directly to the ringworm.
• Repeat two to three times a day for at least seven days.

Note: Alternatively, you can take 250mg of olive leaf extract three times a day until the ringworm is gone. You can also use both of these remedies together to help fight ringworm inside and out.

13. Direct Application of Myrrh

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Myrrh is a long-used anti-fungal treatment. Myrrh is an ancient medicinal herb that has powerful anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, astringent, and anti-viral properties that assist in the healing of several ailments. You can use a myrrh solution or you can combine it with goldenseal to make a paste. Either way, the ringworm will heal quickly and your symptoms will be relieved due to using myrrh.

Required Ingredients:

• Eight to ten drops of myrrh oil
• ½ to one cup of water
• Cotton balls

Process:

• Combine the myrrh and water.
• Dip the cotton ball into the mixture and apply to the ringworm.
• Repeat this treatment two to three times per day until healed.

Note: To make the paste, combine equal parts myrrh to equal parts goldenseal. Mix well and apply three times per day until the ringworm has healed.

14. Direct Application of Raw Papaya

Using green or raw papaya can help to heal ringworm fast. This is because the enzymes present in the raw or green papaya help to break down old layers of skin which inhibit the growth of ringworm. Two of the main enzymes in young and raw papayas are chymopapain and papain. These two enzymes work together to relieve inflammation and itching as well as destroy the fungus by affecting the defense shields.

This remedy is powerful against ringworm, yet it is gentle enough to use on pets and children. You can use the raw papaya alone, or you can make a paste.

Required Ingredients:

• Raw papaya
• Mortar and Pestle

Process:

• Grind the raw papaya with the mortar and pestle.
• Apply the paste directly to the ringworm.
• Leave on the affected area for fifteen to twenty minutes.
• Repeat two to three times per day.
• Follow this treatment regime until the ringworm has healed.

Note: Alternatively you can simply cut pieces of the raw papaya and rub gently onto the ringworm. Do this two to three times per day until the ringworm has healed.

15. Direct Application of Lemongrass Leaf Paste

Lemongrass paste has been used in South East Asian countries for centuries to heal a variety of ailments. The anti-septic properties and anti-fungal properties will help to heal and soothe the skin when affected by ringworm. Combining lemongrass with buttermilk will allow for a powerful paste that will heal ringworm quickly and gently.

Required Ingredients:

• One cup of lemongrass leaves
• Two tablespoons of buttermilk
• Small bowl
• Mortar and pestle

Process:

• Use the mortar and pestle to crush the lemongrass leaves.
• Add to the small bowl and combine with the buttermilk.
• Mix well until a paste forms.
• Apply this mixture directly to the ringworm.
• Leave on the skin for twenty to thirty minutes.
• Repeat this treatment two to three times per day until the ringworm is gone.

16. Direct Application of Grapefruit Seed Extract

The grapefruit seed extract is an anti-bacterial, anti-viral, and antioxidant that enables a wide range of health issues to heal quickly. Topical applications of grapefruit seed extract not only soothe the affected areas but inhibit the growth and spread of ringworm. Internal consumption of grapefruit seed extract will help to boost your immune system.

Required Ingredients:

• Four to five drops of grapefruit seed extract
• Three tablespoons of warm water
• Cotton balls

Process:

• Combine the water and with the drops of the grapefruit seed extract.
• Dip a cotton ball into the mixture and apply it to the ringworm.
• Repeat two or three times each day for one or two weeks until the ringworm has subsided.

Note: You can further dilute the mixture with more water if you have sensitive skin or want to use it on a pet or child.

17. Direct Application of Oregano Oil Combination

Combining oregano oil with a variety of other powerful essential oils will help to heal and soothe your skin. Oregano contains an ingredient called thymol, which is a highly effective anti-fungal agent. Oregano oil contains up to 64% of thymol and this enables a fast and gentle healing process. Oregano oil can be taken internally or applied topically. If you want to use it externally, follow the steps below.

Required Ingredients:

• Three to five drops of Oregano oil
• Three to five drops of Rosemary oil
• One to two drops of Wild Thyme oil
• Two to three teaspoons of Sweet Almond Oil
• Small bowl
• Cotton balls

Process:

• Combine all the oils into the bowl.
• Stir gently until well combined.
• Dip the cotton ball into the mixture and apply to the ringworm.
• Repeat this process three to four times each day until the ringworm has disappeared.

Note: If you want to take Oregano oil orally, you can simply mix five to ten drops of pre-diluted Oregano oil into one cup of water. Drink this mixture three times per day until the ringworm has healed.

18. Direct Application of Camphor

Camphor is commonly used in Chinese Medicine and is highly effective in healing a variety of ailments. You can use Camphor either alone or combined with sesame oil to effectively heal ringworm fast. This remedy is gentle and powerful due to the high anti-fungal agents present in Camphor.

Required Ingredients:

• Camphor Powder
• One teaspoon of sesame oil
• Cotton ball

Process:

• Take a pinch of the Camphor powder and directly apply it to the ringworm.
• Alternatively, you can combine a pinch of the Camphor with the sesame oil.
• Apply to the cotton ball and place directly onto the ringworm.
• Repeat either of these treatments two to three times per day until the ringworm subsides.

Note: Camphor is highly toxic if ingested so avoid using this treatment on pets or children.

19. Direct Application of Goldenseal Tea

Goldenseal is an ancient remedy that is widely used due to its anti-fungal, anti-microbial, anti-septic, and anti-inflammatory agents. When used for ringworm goldenseal can help to relieve the symptoms and speed up the healing process.

Required Ingredients:

• Five to six teaspoons of goldenseal herb
• One to one and ½ cups of water
• Small pot
• Cotton balls

Process:

• Add the water and the goldenseal herb to the pot.
• Simmer for fifteen to twenty minutes.
• Remove from the heat and let cool slightly.
• Dip a cotton ball into the warm mixture and apply to the ringworm.
• Repeat this two to three times each day until your ringworm is gone.

Note: Do not use this remedy if you are pregnant.

20. Direct Application of Neem

Neem is a long-trusted anti-fungal and anti-bacterial agent that has been used for healing internal and external conditions for centuries. You can find neem in a variety of forms such as oil, neem leaf extract, or even neem leaves. Whichever form of neem you choose to use, you can be sure to heal quickly and prevent spreading ringworm.

Required Ingredients:

• ½ a teaspoon of neem leaf powder
• One teaspoon of warm water
• Small bowl
• Cotton balls

Process:

• Combine the neem leaf powder and the water in the bowl.
• Stir gently until paste forms.
• Directly apply this paste to the ringworm.
• Repeat three to four times per day until the ringworm has healed.

Note: If you want to use the neem oil, simply apply two or three drops of the oil directly to the ringworm. Repeat three or four times each day until the ringworm is gone.

21. Direct Application of Holy Basil

Holy basil is an herb that has high amounts of anti-fungal properties. It is commonly used to treat a wide variety of skin conditions. Holy basil can be found as an extract or as a leaf. The leaves are more powerful in fighting conditions such as ringworm, so if you want to use this remedy, seek out the holy basil leaves.

Required Ingredients:

• Several fresh holy basil leaves
• Mortar and pestle
• Cotton balls

Process:

• Crush the holy basil leaves with the mortar and pestle until you can extract the juice.
• Use a cotton ball to apply the holy basil juice directly to the ringworm.
• Repeat twice per day for a minimum of ten days.

22. Direct Application of Turmeric

Turmeric is a powerful and natural healing agent that combats ringworm very well. Turmeric inhibits the growth and spread of ringworm and thoroughly kills ringworm. Turmeric oil is used for ringworm because it can soothe and heal the skin through its anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric will help ease your symptoms while killing off the ringworm.

Required Ingredients:

• Turmeric root or turmeric powder
• ½ a teaspoon of water
• Mortar and pestle
• Small bowl
• Cotton balls

Process:

• Crush the turmeric root with the mortar and pestle.
• Add the freshly crushed turmeric root (or the turmeric powder) to a small bowl and combine with the water.
• Mix well until a paste forms.
• Using a cotton ball, directly apply this paste to the ringworm.
• Leave on the affected area for fifteen to twenty minutes.
• Wash off with warm water and mild soap. (Turmeric is known to stain the skin).
• Repeat this treatment three times per day until the ringworm heals.

Note: If you are using turmeric oil, simply place two or three drops directly onto the ringworm. Do this three times per day until the ringworm disappears.

When you find yourself with a ringworm infection, these herbal remedies should be the first place you turn for treatment. Not only are these home remedies natural, but they are also safe, highly effective in healing, and they get rid of your ringworm fast. You can combine a few of these home remedies to fight the ringworm infection more effectively.

Dr. Kyra Russel Jr.

A qualified doctor, Dr. Kyra Russel Jr. is someone who wears many hats, working also as a health writer, author, researcher, and media medic. She is a master communicator who is passionate about putting convoluted health information into words that make the information widely accessible. Her primary interests are child and adolescent health, women’s well-being, beauty, and nutrition.