Ringworm is a fungal infection that is characterized by a circular shaped skin rash. Thus the word ‘ring’ in its name; where the ‘worm’ came from is debatable but it is probably because it was originally thought to be caused by a worm. Its clinical name is ‘tinea’ which is Latin for ‘growing worm.’
Ringworm in Humans
Ringworm is highly contagious but also very treatable. Because of its distinctive shape, it is easily diagnosed and treatment can be bought over the counter.
However, it is not always so easy. Ringworm does not only refer to the rashes seen on the arm or leg. Tinea barbae refers to ringworm of the bearded area of the face and neck; tinea cruris refers to the groin area – more commonly known as ‘jock itch’; tinea pedis is athlete’s foot; tinea unquium is a fungal infection which turn fingernails and toenails yellow, thick and crumbly.
Ringworm Remedies
Because ringworm is highly contagious, anything around the home that has come in contact with the fungus needs to thoroughly cleaned. This includes clothes, blankets and bedding which need to washed in hot water and bleached where possible. Make sure the ringworm is covered by a band-aid and do not scratch at it though it will be very itchy. Scratching will spread the infection to other parts of the body.
Ringworm remedies are usually anti-fungal creams containing clotrimazole, minonazole, ketoconazole, naftifine or terbinafine. More resistant infections may require the taking of medicine over a longer period of time. Some home remedies include dabbing raw papaya on the infection or applying pastes made from mustard seeds or cassia leaves. Other home remedies are the use of straight bleach or clear nail polish.
Essential oils like tea tree, lavender and patchouli have also been found to be very effective because of their anti-fungal action. Whatever the treatment, do not rub the patch of skin as this can cause the problem to spread. Use a dabbing motion instead.
Treat Ringworm Thoroughly
Whatever remedy is decided on, it is important to understand that just because the rash is gone, it does not mean that treatment can be stopped. If treatment is stopped too soon, the rash may come back because the infection is still there deep in the skin tissue. Furthermore, there is still the possibility of spreading the infection as it is still contagious so keep the area covered. Ringworm treatment will probably take about two weeks but depending on the area affected and the severity of infection.
Marlene de Wilde - Marlene has a BA in journalism and psychology. She teaches English as a Second Language in Crete.
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