Ringworm (Tinea) is a fungal infection of the skin. It is also known as dermatophytosis. Why is it called a ringworm is a mystery as the infection is caused by fungus not by any worm.
The infection is generally a red rash with a well defined circular edge. It can affect any part of skin including scalp and nails. Ringworm is contagious so when it begins at one part of the skin, it can spread to others.
Humans and animals both are affected by ringworm. If your pet has it then be careful. You might also get it by close contact with your pet.
Ringworm patches are raised and scaly. They may develop into blisters and ooze.
You can prevent the infection by taking precautions and avoiding close contact with infected people or stop sharing items that may not be clean.
If you have got ringworm on your skin then you can get rid of it with aloe vera and other similar home remedies.
Table of Contents
- How does Aloe Vera Treat Ringworm?
- 3 Effective Ways to Use Aloe Vera for Ringworm
- Other Tips and Precautions
How does Aloe Vera Treat Ringworm?
Aloe Vera not only treats the fungus but also gives you other associated relief as under:
- Soothes itchiness
- Treats inflammation
- Reduces discomfort
- Kills fungus to get rid of ringworm rash from your skin
Aloe Vera contains a wide range of enzymes, amino acids and trace elements to provide antiseptic, antifungal and anti inflammatory benefits.
A study in 2013 indicated that aloe vera inhibited different types of fungi. Another study identified a protein called 14kDa in aloe vera as an antifungal agent.
Aloe Vera is suitable for all kinds of fungal.infections like Candida, yeast and ringworm.
With multiple benefits of soothing the rash to killing the fungus aloe vera is one if your best natural bet to combat ringworm.
Go for it.
3 Effective Ways to Use Aloe Vera for Ringworm
You can use aloe vera on your ringworm in many different ways. Three of the effective ways are detailed as under.
If you have access to fresh aloe vera gel then that is the best option otherwise buy a reputed brand of aloe vera gel.
1. Aloe Vera Gel
Wash clean and dry the ringworm affected skin
- Apply a layer of aloe vera gel on the rash
- Leave at for at least 2 hours
- Wash clean dry and apply again
- Do it 3-4 times daily
- Apply it also before going to the bed and leave it overnight
2. Aloe Vera and Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil also possess strong antifungal capabilities and is by iteself a good home remedy for ringworm. The combination of aloe vera gel and tea tree oil will fight the ringworm infection even better.
- Wash clean and dry the affected skin area.
- Add 5 drops of tea tree oil in ½ teaspoon of aloe vera gel and mix well
- Apply a thin layer on the ringworm rash.
- Make more aloe vera tea tree oil mix if you have larger skin are to cover
- Leave it for 4 hours and repeat.
- Apply before going to bed and leave it overnight.
3. Aloe Vera Gel and Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is more concentrated than tea tree oil with high antifungal capabilities.
- Wash and dry ringworm affected skin area
- Add 2 drops of oregano oil in ½ teaspoon of aloe vera gel and mix well
- Apply thin layer on the ringworm rash
- Leave it for 4 hours before repeating the process again.
- Apply before going to bed and leave it overnight.
You can use more mix in the same ratio if you have multiple ringworm rashes in a wider skin area.
Other Tips and Precautions
Following precautions will help you to prevent and to deal with ringworm infections effectively.
- Clean and dry your skin regularly daily
- Wash bedding and clothing daily during the period of infection
- Do not share bedding, clothing and towels of infected person.
- Treat if your pet has ringworm and avoid close contact with the pet.
- Disinfect and clean pet living area
- Avoid wearing clothes that irritate the affected area.
- Avoid scratching as you may develop staph infection
Ringworm infection can last between 2-4 weeks. Home Remedies like aloe vera can completely get rid of it. However if it doesn't go away then you must consult a dermatologist.