Herbal Treatment For Scalp Ringworm

The Mayo Clinic's website reports that ringworm of the scalp is one of several types of ringworm infection. A fungal infection, ringworm can affect anyone of any age. If you believe that you may have a case of ringworm of the scalp, you should seek immediate medical attention. The condition only worsens when it goes untreated. A number of different herbal remedies may provide relief, however.

Causes

According to MayoClinic.com, a microorganism that works like a parasite on our bodies causes ringworm. These microorganisms are moldlike fungi called dermatophytes that attack the outer layer of skin on the scalp and even invade the hair shaft, causing the hair to break off.

Symptoms

Ringworm appears as round areas on the scalp where the hair has fallen out. MayoClinic.com reports that these patches on the scalp can expand slowly and become scaly in appearance. The hair around these areas is easily pulled out and they are very tender and painful.

Identification

Seeing your physician as soon as you suspect a case of ringworm of the scalp is important, because prompt treatment of the condition is essential. The New Zealand Dermatological Society reports that your physician can take a culture at the site and identify ringworm of the scalp by confirming the presence of the microorganism using a microscope.

Treatment

In his book "1000 Cures for 200 Ailments," David Kiefer, MD reports that you can try herbal remedies for ringworm, such as oregano oil. Take up to five drops under your tongue, or mix it with a glass of water and drink it. Or you can take 500 mg a day of oregano oil in capsule form. Other herbal remedies he suggests are the use of bitter orange oil, which you apply to the affected area up to three times a day, and tea tree oil or calendula oil, applied directly to the affected area.

Warning

Ringworm is a highly contagious disease. According to MayoClinic.com, skin-to-skin, object-to-human or animal-to-human contact can all spread ringworm. Complications can also occur from a case of ringworm of the scalp. Some cases can lead to a condition known as kerion, which is a severe and painful inflammation of your scalp. The Mayo Clinic's website reports that kerion appears on the scalp as soft, raised swollen areas filled with pus and even covered with a crust. This condition can cause your hair to fall out completely, and your scalp may scar. The New Zealand Dermatological Society reports that kerion can be confused with boils, carbuncles, and tumors because they look similar. You should also remember that some herbal remedies, such as oregano oil, can cause skin irritation and may worsen your skin condition. Therefore, if you feel that your herbal remedy is not improving the skin condition, you need to seek medical assistance.