Ringworm is a fungal infection, not a worm, it can affect the body, the feet as athlete's foot and the groin as jock itch. According to "The Gale Encyclopedia of Children's Health: Infancy through Adolescence," ringworm is characterized by patches of rough, reddened and raised skin, often in a circular shape. Ringworm is zoonotic, animal to human, and highly contagious by touch or contact with items such as moist towels. An article published in the August 2000 issue of "Better Nutrition" shows tea tree oil as effective as an over-the-counter anti-fungal for the treatment of fungi, such as ringworm.
Step 1
Wash the affected area with soap and warm water.
Step 2
Dampen a cotton ball with water, and squeeze out the excess water.
Step 3
Apply 2 to 3 drops of tea tree oil to the damp cotton ball.
Step 4
Gently rub the medicated cotton ball on the affected area. Allow the tea tree oil to dry.
Step 5
Cover the affected area with a bandage or gauze.
Step 6
Repeat the process two to three times a day for a couple of weeks.
Tips and Warnings
- Wash hands, bedding and clothing thoroughly, as ringworm is highly contagious. If the skin is not sensitive, you can use full-strength tea tree to a dry cotton ball. Tea tree oil can also be combined with a carrier oil such as jojoba, olive, almond, avocado or coconut.
- Do not use this method if you are allergic to any ingredients. Avoid getting tea tree oil in your eyes. If your condition worsens, seek help from a health professional.
Things You'll Need
- Soap
- Cotton balls
- Tea tree oil
- Bandage or gauze and medical tape
References
- "The Gale Encyclopedia of Children's Health: Infancy through Adolescence"; L. Flemming; 2006
- "Better Nutrition"; Tea Tree Oil--Herb From the Land Down Under Fights Germs All Over; K. Siegel-Maier; August 2000
- "Natural Health"; Stamp Out Athlete's Foot; March 2005
