Ringworm, also known as tinea or dermatophytosis, is a skin disease caused by several parasitic fungi called dermatophytes. Ringworm infections, which can occur anywhere on your body, include body ringworm, scalp ringworm, nail ringworm, jock itch in the groin area and athlete's foot on your feet. These infections can be contagious and can even affect your pets. Ringworm looks like a circle of red, scaly blisters on your skin, or thickened, crumbly nails on your toenails and fingernails. Herbs with antifungal action may help eliminate ringworm. If your infection persists, consult a health care provider for advice.
Tea Tree
Tea tree, or Melaleuca alternifolia, is an Australian native with a long history as a medicinal herb. Herbalists use it treat insect bites, wounds, acne and skin infections. The leaves produce an essential oil that has antibacterial and antifungal actions. In his 2003 book, "Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine," clinical herbalist David Hoffmann recommends applying diluted tea tree essential oil to infected areas for tinea infections, including scalp ringworm and athlete's foot. Do not ingest the oil --- it is only for topical use. Talk to your doctor before using herbal remedies to treat any medical condition.
Myrrh
Myrrh, or Commiphora molmol, is a tree that produces an aromatic resin. Traditional healers use resin tinctures to treat a wide range of bacterial and fungal infections. Hoffmann advises combining myrrh and lavender essential oils, dissolved in rubbing alcohol, and applying them to your feet as a treatment for athlete's foot. Myrrh will fight the fungus and lavender will reduce inflammation and soothe damaged tissues. Do not use this combination internally. Ask your doctor if this remedy would be suitable for your condition.
Grapefruit
Grapefruit, or Citrus paradisi, is an evergreen tree with large yellow fruit. Herbalists use the seeds, pulp and inner rind to make a medicinal extract that has antifungal action. In their 2000 book, "The Herbal Drugstore," Dr. Linda B. White and medicinal plant expert Steven Foster recommend applying the extract to your skin several times each day until the fungal infection clears. If you eat grapefruit, note that it can interact with many types of drugs, so consult your doctor if you are taking medication.
Geranium
Geranium, or Pelargonium spp., is a flowering plant native to South Africa but cultivated throughout the world. It is a traditional remedy for a wide range of disorders, including diarrhea, indigestion, worms, gout, rheumatism and respiratory infections. The essential oil contains citronellol, geraniol, linalool, menthone, isomenthone, limonene and pinene, and has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antifungal actions. White and Foster state that you can apply the essential oil undiluted several times each day until the rash disappears. Do not apply the oil undiluted to children's skin, and do not use it internally.
References
- "Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine"; David Hoffmann; 2003
- "The Herbal Drugstore"; Linda B. White, M.D., Steven Foster; 2000
