Ringworm
Despite the name, ringworm (tinea corporis) is not caused by a worm but a fungal infection. The name likely comes from look of the infection which is a circular rash of red with the center often being lighter in color; it may cause the skin to itch. Ringworm can be caused by:
Human to human contact with an infected person
Animal to human contact
Object to human contact – from items an infected person has touched or worn
Soil to human contact – prolonged contacted from highly infected soil (dirt)
As it is contagious, it is best to:
Avoid skin-to-skin contact with others
Avoid touching other peoples clothes, including hugging
Do not share personal items with others such as linen, pillows, clothing, hairbrush, etc.
Wash your hands often with warm soap and water; make sure to use paper towels if available to dry your hands
Dealing with ringworm, our first thought may often be to cover it, however you don’t want to: wear tight clothing where it is located, put makeup on it or hide it with a band-aid. What we can do to combat the infection is to apply some tea tree essential oil to it which is loaded with: antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Adding to this is lavender essential oil which is: anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, pain relieving and soothing.
Ringworm Relief Recipe
3 Drops of tea tree essential oil
3 Drops of lavender essential oil
1 Tablespoon (14.78 ml) of a carrier oil (olive oil, sweet almond oil, etc.) – for children use 2 Tablespoons (29.56 ml) of a carrier oil
Small container with a lid
Spoon
Q-tips
Directions
Add the carrier oil and tea tree essential oil to the container
Stir well
Use a Q-tip and dip it in the oil; do not saturate
Lightly apply to the area of infection(s)
Reapply this 2-3 times a day
Use a new Q-tip each time you need to apply the oil mixture, never re-dip
Do not apply if there is pus or drainage to the infection
This last time I dealt with ringworm, it was gone within about 5 days of following this regime; this may vary from person to person.
Should you experience a fever, pus or drainage, warmth to the site, red streaks, swelling or worsening and/or spreading of the redness see your primary care provider right away.
Until next time, discover the power of essential oils.
References
Getting to the Root of Ringworm Causes and Prevention. (n.d.). Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles. Retrieved from https://www.chla.org/blog/rn-remedies/getting-the-root-ringworm-causes-and-prevention
Ringworm (body). (2018, March 6). Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ringworm-body/symptoms-causes/syc-20353780
Kitchen Cupboard Underground is a weekly blog on home remedies and natural wellness. Find 100% natural, wellness and personal care products Made for You and delivered to your door at BotanicalTherapy.com. Receive Kitchen Cupboard Underground with a Free Subscription.
