Overview
Ringworm is a common fungal skin infection, also known as Tinea corporis.
It can be known by other names depending on where in the body it manifests.
It’s known as Tinea capitis if it presents itself on your scalp.
Other common ringworm infections are athlete’s foot, jock itch (in the groin), and toenail fungus.
Ringworm causes a red, scaly rash on your skin, which can take the form of a ring over time.
This type of infection is very contagious and can spread to other parts of your body.
If you or someone you know has ringworm, avoid sharing items like towels, bedsheets, and cutlery or cups as object-to-person transmission is common.
To treat ringworm, you can use an over-the-counter antifungal cream.
Look for antifungal creams containing clotrimazole or terbinafine.
If you’re looking first to try a natural treatment for ringworm, then essential oils and aromatherapy may be an option for you.
Essential Oils As Natural Home Remedies
Essential oils (EOs) are highly concentrated plant extracts containing hundreds of active compounds known to support health and well-being.
They offer several health benefits like:
- Anti-inflammatory properties – to help relieve or reduce inflammation.
- Immune System Support – To help your body fight infections.
- Antimicrobial properties – Many EOs are antibacterial, antiviral, and antiseptic.
- Antifungal properties – To fight off fungal infections like ringworm and Candida Albicans.
EOs are also known for helping manage several other skin conditions:
- Soothing eczema
- Psoriasis relief
- Shingles
- Treating warts
- Healing bug bites
- Helping sunburns and skin burns
The Best Essential Oils For Ringworm Treatment
Tea tree oil (Melaleuca alternifolia), thyme oil, peppermint oil, clove oil, oregano oil, and lemon oil all contain antifungal properties. (1)
They’re also known to be anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiseptic.
Peppermint essential oil also acts as a pain reliever that provides a cooling and soothing effect to relieve itching.
Other EOs that may help with ringworm skin infections are lemongrass oil, frankincense oil, turmeric oil, and lavender essential oil.
How To Use Essential Oils For Ringworm
Always dilute EOs with a carrier oil before applying to the affected area(s).
Stick to 2-3 drops of EO per 1 teaspoon of carrier oil.
Coconut oil is an effective carrier oil that contains both antifungal and antimicrobial properties.
Safety Concerns
Always choose high-quality, certified organic, and therapeutic grade products.
EOs usually offer little to no adverse side effects when used with caution and care.
When used for ringworm or other fungal infections, EOs should always be diluted in a carrier oil to avoid skin irritation or reactions.
Perform a patch test on a non-affected area of the skin and wait 24 hours to confirm no allergic reaction before using an EO on ringworm.
If you experience any adverse reaction, stop use immediately, and consult your health care provider.
Be aware of each oil you use contraindications as some EOs aren’t suitable for young children or pregnant or nursing women.
Essential oil blends are a great way to maximize the medicinal effects of EOs.
Just make sure you’re not allergic to any oil beforehand.
DIY Ringworm Rx Spray
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel
- 1 tablespoon fractionated coconut oil
- 2 tablespoons witch hazel
- 7 drops tea tree essential oil
- 4 drops thyme oil
- 4 drops lemongrass oil
- 3 drops lavender oil
Place all ingredients in a small dark glass spray bottle and mix thoroughly.
Apply by spraying directly onto the affected area or dab with a clean cotton ball.
For best results, apply twice a day – morning and evening.
REFERENCES
:
(1) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6832927/
