Ringworm – Information and Cures

Ring worm is caused by a fungus and it is actually a skin infection. Contrary to what you think, ringworm is not connected to the worm. It is clearly a parasitic fungus.


Also known as ‘Tinea’, the Latin name of ringworm means ‘a growing worm’. This fungus causes a rash that is shaped like a ring with raised edges. Itchy and flaky, it can cause a bald spot on the scalp, and the skin can crack when the rash affects the places between the toes.



 
Symptoms: It is a scaly, red bump or patch on the skin. Uncomfortable and itchy, it is the ring-shaped pattern of the rashes that has given this skin problem this name. When this rash affects the foot, it is known as athlete’s foot.


If the rash happens on the scalp, it can begin like a small sore before flaring into a scaly, flaky patch. It may lead to hair fall and the infected part can become red, tender and swollen. When the nails are affected by ringworm, then these become brittle and yellowish.
 
Causes: Ringworm is contagious and these are caused because of this fungus called Tinea. Since it can spread from one person to another, you must try not to touch the affected area of another person. Sometimes, one can get ringworm through animals. You must wash your hands after touching pets or after playing. Wear slippers when you are taking a shower in the changing room of a pool.
 
Home Remedies:

• Make a paste with mustard seeds and apply it like an ointment on the affected area.
  

• Try rubbing slices of unripe papaya on the flaky patches a couple of times a day.
  

• You can extract the juice from raw turmeric, mix it with a spoon full of honey, and take this concoction orally for relief.
  

• Castor oil can be used to treat the rashes on the scalp.
  

• Fresh, raw juices of vegetables can combat ringworm effectively.

• You can make a paste with the seeds of herb butea and mix it with lime juice. This paste can be applied to the affected area.
  

• Coconut oil can be applied on the rashes to prevent itching. This is apparently, one of the best solutions for treating ringworm.
  

• Make a paste with the dried seeds of papaya and apply the ointment on the rashes.
  

• You must avoid consuming condiments, coffee, tea, white flour products, canned foods, and sugar as these can make the situation worse.
  

• Try applying a mud pack.