Ringworm - Treatment

Some cases of ringworm disappear without treatment. Other cases can be treated with various forms of medication. Some medications are applied directly to the infected skin in the form of powder or cream. Others must be taken orally (by mouth). Doctors recommend that medications be continued for two weeks after symptoms disappear. This precaution guarantees that all fungi are killed.

There are also specific treatments for each type of ringworm. These include:

• Body ringworm: Wear loose clothing and check daily for open sores. Apply wet dressings to those sores two to three times a day.
• Ringworm of the nails: Cut infected nails short and clear dead cells with an emery board.

• Ringworm of the groin: Wear cotton underwear and change it more than once a day. Keep the infected area dry. Use antifungal powder and/or lotion.
• Scalp ringworm: Use antifungal shampoo containing selenium sulfide or a prescription shampoo.

Alternative Treatment

Both homeopathic and herbal remedies are recommended for the treatment of ringworm. Some homeopathic products suggested include sepia, tellurium, graphite, and sulfur.

Herbs recommended for the treatment of ringworm include tea tree oil, thuja, and lavender. Practitioners may recommend other herbs to improve the body's immune system in general. Echinacea and astragalus are the two herbs most commonly recommended for this purpose. Alternative practitioners also suggest a well-balanced diet that includes protein, complex carbohydrates, fresh fruits and vegetables, and good quality fats to strengthen the immune system.