Some of the home remedies for ringworm infection in kids include paste of mustard seed, application of turmeric juice, papaya, coriander paste, Cassia leaves, coconut oil, garlic extract, apple cider vinegar, aloe vera, namely.

What is a Ringworm Infection?

Ringworm is a fungal infection that usually occurs in the form of red circular patches on the skin. Although not dangerous, ringworms can be really irritating for being itchy in nature. Ringworm is highly contagious and also takes time to heal up.

Most commonly, ringworms occur on the feet, scalp, hands, legs, and nails or at places where sweating is higher. Also known as ‘tinea’, the medical term used for the disease is ‘dermatophytosis’.

Symptoms for Ringworm Infection in Children

They are usually characterized by symptoms like loss of hair in patches, itching, crusting, scaling, and pus filled sores (in severe conditions).

However, symptoms of body ringworm are slightly different, including red circular rashes and itchiness or irritation. In severe cases, the ring might grow bigger or you might see multiple rings developed around it.

Causes of Ringworm in Children

There can be numerous reasons for ringworm to occur in children. Some common ones are listed ahead.

• Ringworm spreads through public pools and showers.
• It can spread through animals. Pets, including dogs, cats, horses, pigs and goats are common carriers of the fungus. They can be responsible to spread infections.
• Many a times, infection can be a result of contaminated soil. Due to lack of proper nutrients in the soil, the fungus multiplies, thus causing an infection.
• Most importantly, direct skin-to-skin contact is a major cause of ringworms in children. Your child can catch an infection if any part of the body is already infected.

11 Must Know Home Remedies for Ringworm in Children

Ringworm doesn’t only occur in adults. It is equally common in children as well for their skin is still developing and lacks essential fatty acids crucial to prevent ringworm infection. It usually spreads in an oval or round pattern with raised pink rings and a spotless space in the middle.

Here are some easy yet effective home remedies to treat ringworm not only in adults but for children as well:

1. Mustard Seeds

Although tiny in size, mustard seeds are excellent agents to treat ringworm.

Home Remedy : To use, soak mustard seeds in water for about half an hour and grind them to prepare a thick paste. Apply this paste over the infected skin to relieve your child’s skin from irritation and itching.

2. Papaya : 

Papaya, being rich in vitamin A, serves a great remedy for ring worms.  

Home Remedy:  Rub pieces of raw papaya over the affected parts to get relief from the problem. You can also apply the paste of dried papaya seed to benefit in treatment of ringworm.

3. Turmeric : 

This simple spice of daily use in your homes is loaded with great natural antibiotic properties. Popularly known as ‘holy powder’, turmeric features numerous potent benefits. It helps to treat all types of fungal and bacterial infections.

Home Remedy: Apply fresh turmeric juice on the affected skin of your child using a cotton ball. Apply it three times a day until the infection goes away. 

4. Carrot Juice :

Carrot juice is loaded with vitamin A besides being an antioxidant. It is crucial for maintaining healthy skin.

Home remedy for ring worms: The combination of carrot juice and spinach juice, prepared in the ratio of 3:2, when taken orally is highly effective in the treatment of ringworm in young children.

5.Coriander

Prepare a teaspoon of coriander paste, along with turmeric powder to apply externally over the affected area. Coriander paste induces coolness while relieving the itchy sensation on the skin.

Furthermore, turmeric is an amazing antiseptic that acts upon the fungal infection thus making it an effective home remedy to treat ringworms in children.

6. Cassia Leaves

Cassia leaves are used to relieve itching and irritation of the skin. Besides, it also helps to reduce pain resulting from infection.

Home Remedy: The paste or juice of cassia leaves is an extremely effective home remedy for ringworms, especially in treating children as it has absolutely no side effects.

7. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar contains natural antifungal properties that can treat the ringworm infection.

Home Remedy: To use apple vinegar for ringworm, apply it undiluted over the patchy area using a cotton ball 4-5 times a day till your child gets relief from the problem. This remedy will completely eliminate the fungal infection in 3-4 days.

8. Garlic Extract

Garlic is flavored with ajeone which is a natural anti-fungal agent. It is used to treat different types of fungal infections. Regular use of this home remedy promises complete and effective treatment of ringworm in children.

Home Remedy : To use, peel a clove and slice into thin pieces. Place these slices over the affected area and wrap a bandage around it. Let it stay overnight for best results. Alternatively, you can also apply it as a paste for topical application.

9. Coconut Oil

Coconut oil, easily available in any home, is known popularly for different kinds of scalp and hair problems. The healing properties of coconut oil are highly effective in treating ringworm infections. It provides great relief from itchy skin while making the affected area soft and smooth.

Home Remedy: Coconut oil is also effective in treating scalp ringworms in children. Just apply the oil over the affected area and leave it overnight. Doing this would eliminate build-up and residue of the infection.

10. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is highly popular for its hair loss benefits and natural hair conditioning. It is also a great remedy to do away with skin infections as well. Aloe Vera is a popular all-natural remedy for ringworm and various other skin problems. 

Home Remedy: To use, remove the gel from Aloe Vera and apply it directly over your child’s affected skin. Allow it to work overnight and wash it the next day. Apply it daily till the problem goes away.

11. Olive Leaf

Each part of the olive tree has amazing health benefits. While olive oil makes one of the best oils for body massage, olive leaf is an excellent remedy for ringworm. It possesses anti-fungal qualities while boosting the body’s immune system.

To treat ringworm, give an olive leaf to your child to consume three times a day until the problem subsides. The results are really amazing.

Hope you find these remedies helpful to get your child rid of ringworms!