Homeopathy treatment for Ringworm (Tinea)

Ringworm is a common infection of the skin that is caused by fungus & characterised by itchy red circular rash.

Dermatophyte infections (ringworm) are extremely common also usually caused by fungi of the Microsporum, Trichophyton and Epidermophyton species.

Furthermore, The fungi can originate from soil (geophilic) or animals (zoophilic), or be confined to human skin (anthropophilic).

In detail, Dermatophyte infections usually present with skin(tinea corporis), scalp (tinea capitis), groin (tinea cruris), foot (tinea pedis) also nail (onychomycosis) involvement.

Besides this, It is called ringworm because the itchy, red rash has a ring-like appearance.

However, ringworm is nothing to do with worms.

It can affect different parts of the body.

Causes

Ringworm (also known as tinea) is a common fungal infection of the skin that can affect different parts of the body. Despite its name, it is not caused by a worm but by fungi that live on the skin, hair, and nails. The condition typically presents as a red, itchy, circular rash with clear skin in the center, resembling a ring.

Causes of Ringworm

The primary cause of ringworm is an infection with dermatophytes, a group of fungi that thrive on keratin, a protein found in the skin, hair, and nails. These fungi are contagious and spread from person to person, or through animals or objects that carry the fungi. Here’s how ringworm spreads:

1. Direct Human-to-Human Contact

Skin-to-skin contact with an infected person is the most common way that ringworm is transmitted. For example, shaking hands with someone who has the infection or hugging can spread the fungus.
Sexual contact: Ringworm can also be transmitted through sexual contact if one partner has the infection.

2. Indirect Contact

Touching contaminated surfaces or objects: Ringworm can survive on objects such as towels, bedding, clothing, and brushes. If you come into contact with these items after someone with ringworm has used them, you may become infected.
Public spaces: The fungus can also thrive in warm, moist environments like locker rooms, public showers, swimming pools, and gyms. Walking barefoot in these areas increases the risk of contracting ringworm.

3. Animal-to-Human Transmission

Pets, especially cats and dogs, can carry the fungus and pass it on to humans. Cats are particularly common carriers of a type of ringworm known as tinea corporis.
Direct contact with an infected animal, such as petting or handling, can result in the fungus being transferred to human skin.

4. Fungal Spores in the Environment

The fungi responsible for ringworm can live in the environment, especially in places that are humid and warm, such as soil, rotting wood, or on fallen leaves. If you come into contact with these contaminated surfaces, the spores can infect your skin.

5. Weakened Immune System

People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, diabetes, or who are undergoing chemotherapy, may be more susceptible to fungal infections like ringworm. A compromised immune system makes it harder for the body to fight off infections, allowing the fungi to thrive.

6. Personal Hygiene and Sweating

Excessive sweating, poor hygiene, or wearing tight-fitting clothes that don’t allow your skin to breathe can create a favorable environment for fungi to grow, leading to ringworm. Fungi thrive in warm, damp conditions, so areas of the body like the feet (athlete’s foot), groin (jock itch), and scalp are common places for ringworm to appear.

Risk Factors for Ringworm

While anyone can get ringworm, certain factors can increase your risk of developing the infection:

Close contact with an infected person or animal
Living in crowded conditions or sharing personal items like towels, clothing, or sports equipment
Excessive sweating, especially in tight-fitting clothes
Not drying skin thoroughly after bathing or swimming
Weakened immune system (e.g., due to illness, medications, or malnutrition)
Poor hygiene or infrequent hand-washing
Contact with contaminated soil or public places (e.g., gyms, pools)

Types

Ringworm (also known as tinea) is a fungal infection that can affect different areas of the body. The infection is caused by dermatophytes, which are fungi that thrive on keratin, a protein found in skin, hair, and nails. Ringworm is classified based on the location of the infection, and each type has its own specific characteristics. Here are the types of ringworm:

1. Tinea Corporis (Body)

Location: Affects the skin on the body, excluding the scalp, feet, and groin.
Symptoms: This form of ringworm typically presents as circular, red, itchy rashes with raised, scaly borders and a clear center. The rash often spreads outward and can merge into larger patches.
Common Causes: Spread through direct skin-to-skin contact or touching contaminated surfaces.

2. Tinea Pedis (Athlete’s Foot)

Location: Primarily affects the feet, especially between the toes.
Symptoms: Causes itching, redness, burning, and scaling of the skin. In severe cases, the skin can crack or peel, and blisters may develop. The infected area may emit a foul odor.
Common Causes: Often contracted from public showers, swimming pools, or locker rooms, where the fungi thrive in moist, warm environments. It can also spread through tight-fitting shoes.

3. Tinea Capitis (Scalp)

Location: Affects the scalp and hair.
Symptoms: Causes itching, bald patches, and scaly or crusty lesions on the scalp. The hair may break off in patches, leading to noticeable bald spots.
Common Causes: This type is most common in children, particularly in areas with poor hygiene. It spreads through direct contact with an infected person or object (like combs or hats).

4. Tinea Cruris (Jock Itch)

Location: Affects the groin, thighs, and buttocks.
Symptoms: Characterized by a red, itchy rash with raised borders, often shaped like a ring. The area may become inflamed, and the rash can spread to the inner thighs and buttocks.
Common Causes: Typically contracted from contact with contaminated clothing or surfaces, and it is more common in men. The infection thrives in warm, moist environments, which is why it affects the groin area.

5. Tinea Unguium (Nail Infection)

Location: Affects the nails, especially the toenails.
Symptoms: The nails become thick, discolored (yellow or white), and brittle. They may also become deformed and may separate from the nail bed.
Common Causes: This type is more common in older adults or those with diabetes. It can also be caused by an infection in the toenails after trauma to the nail.

6. Tinea Barbae (Beard Area)

Location: Affects the beard and mustache areas, primarily in men.
Symptoms: Characterized by red, inflamed bumps and pustules on the skin. The infection can cause patches of hair loss in the beard area.
Common Causes: This infection is spread through direct contact with infected animals or people, or by using contaminated razors.

7. Tinea Versicolor (Pityriasis Versicolor)

Location: This is a form of ringworm that typically affects the upper body, especially the chest, back, and shoulders.
Symptoms: It causes small, discolored patches that may be lighter or darker than the surrounding skin. The patches may be scaly and often do not itch.
Common Causes: Caused by Malassezia, a yeast-like fungus that lives naturally on the skin but can overgrow in warm, humid conditions.

Sign and symptoms

Symptoms typically appear between 4 and 14 days after the skin comes in contact with the fungi that cause ringworm.

The symptoms of ringworm often depend on which part of the body is infected, but they generally include:

Itchy skin
Ring-shaped rash
Red, scaly, cracked skin
Hair loss

Body or skin ringworm (Tinea Corporis):

Symptoms include i.e.:

A rash with a ring-like appearance.
The skin may be red and inflamed around the outside of the ring, but look fine in the middle.
Patches can grow slowly, increasing in size and appearing on more areas of the body.
Merging rings.
Rings feel slightly raised.
Itchiness, especially under the rash.

Groin infection (Tinea Cruris/ “Jock Itch”):

There may be:

Itchiness, especially in and around the groin.
Redness and a burning sensation in the affected area.
Flaky and scaly skin on the inner thighs.
Symptoms worsen when walking, running, or exercising.
Tight clothing makes symptoms worse.

Beard area (Tinea Barbae):

This can involve:

Redness, swelling, and pus-filled bumps on the cheeks, chin, and upper neck.
Hair loss, which usually resolves after treatment.
Swollen glands.
Raw, open skin and raised, soft, spongy patches that weep.
Tiredness. [2]

Feet with ringworm infection (Tinea Pedis / Athlete’s Foot):

Itching, burning, and stinging on your soles also between your toes.

Dry, scaly skin that usually begins between the toes also can spread to the bottom of the feet, sides, or both.
Peeling skin
Blisters, painful cracking skin, bleeding, also thick patches of red and scaly skin.
Besides this, Skin between the toes turns white, becoming soft and mushy.
Foul odor.
Rash on one or both hands because touching the infected foot can spread the infection to your hands.

Nails with ringworm infection (Tinea Unguium / “Onychomycosis”):

Can infect 1 or several nails
Begins with thickening of the tissue under the nail (nail bed).
Nails discolor and thicken.
Thickened nails may start to lift away from the nail bed.
Crumbling nails.
Disappearing nails (In time, you see less of the nails.)
Toenails more likely than fingernails to become infected.
Often develops in people who have athlete’s foot for a long time.

Scalp ringworm (Tinea Capitis):

A scaly bald patch.
Widespread baldness with thick, crusty patches on the scalp
Black dots in the bald area.
Open sores oozing pus.
Raised soft, spongy, inflamed area.
Swollen lymph nodes.
Intense itch.

While diet alone can’t cure ringworm, certain foods can help support your immune system, promote skin healing, and reduce inflammation, which can aid your body in fighting the fungal infection. Here’s what you should focus on eating when dealing with ringworm:

1. Immune-Boosting Foods

Since ringworm is a fungal infection, having a strong immune system will help your body fight off the infection more effectively.

Vitamin C-Rich Foods

Vitamin C helps boost the immune system and promotes skin health. Include these foods in your diet:

Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits)
Bell peppers
Kiwi
Strawberries
Broccoli
Tomatoes

Vitamin A-Rich Foods

Vitamin A plays a role in maintaining the health of your skin and mucous membranes, which helps your body fight infections.

Carrots
Sweet potatoes
Spinach
Kale
Eggs
Red bell peppers

Zinc-Rich Foods

Zinc is important for immune function and skin healing. A zinc deficiency can slow down recovery from skin infections like ringworm.

Lean meats (chicken, turkey, beef)
Shellfish (especially oysters)
Chickpeas
Pumpkin seeds
Nuts (cashews, almonds)
Whole grains (quinoa, oats)

2. Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Ringworm can cause inflammation and itching, so eating anti-inflammatory foods can help alleviate some of these symptoms.

Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has strong anti-inflammatory properties. You can add it to curries, smoothies, or mix it in warm milk.
Ginger: Another great anti-inflammatory food. Drink ginger tea or add fresh ginger to meals.
Olive oil: Rich in oleocanthal, which has anti-inflammatory effects. Use it in cooking or as a salad dressing.
Leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula): These greens are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

3. Antifungal Foods

Certain foods have natural antifungal properties, which may help fight the fungal infection.

Garlic: Known for its antifungal and antibacterial properties, garlic can be added to dishes or eaten raw.
Coconut oil: Contains caprylic acid, which has antifungal properties. It can be used for cooking or applied topically to the skin (with caution).
Apple cider vinegar: Some people believe that apple cider vinegar can help with fungal infections. It can be consumed in small amounts diluted in water or used topically (with caution).

4. Probiotic-Rich Foods

Probiotics help support a healthy gut, which in turn supports the immune system.

Yogurt (with live cultures)
Kefir
Sauerkraut or kimchi (fermented vegetables)
Miso
Tempeh

5. Hydration

Staying hydrated is important for your overall health, especially if you’re fighting an infection. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out toxins and keep your skin hydrated.

Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint can also help soothe inflammation.
Coconut water is a great option for replenishing electrolytes.

6. Foods to Avoid

Some foods can contribute to inflammation, weaken the immune system, or exacerbate fungal growth, so it’s best to avoid:

Sugar: Sugar can feed fungi and impair immune function, so it’s best to reduce or eliminate sugary foods from your diet.
Processed foods: These can weaken your immune system and promote inflammation.
Fried and greasy foods: These can cause inflammation and slow the healing process.
Alcohol: Alcohol can weaken your immune system and dehydrate the body, which can hinder recovery.

Diet and Regimen

Ringworm is a fungal infection that affects the skin, hair, and nails, and while it requires antifungal treatment, a proper diet and healthy regimen can support your body in fighting the infection and aid in faster recovery. Here’s a guide to a diet and regimen for managing ringworm:

Diet for Ringworm:

A well-balanced diet that supports your immune system, reduces inflammation, and promotes skin healing is essential in managing ringworm.

1. Immune-Boosting Foods:

Strong immune function is key to fighting off the fungal infection. Include these immune-boosting foods:

Vitamin C-rich foods:
- Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits)
- Bell peppers
- Kiwi
- Strawberries
- Tomatoes
- Broccoli
Vitamin A-rich foods:
- Carrots
- Sweet potatoes
- Spinach
- Kale
- Eggs
Zinc-rich foods:
- Lean meats (chicken, turkey)
- Shellfish (especially oysters)
- Chickpeas
- Pumpkin seeds
- Nuts (almonds, cashews)
- Whole grains (quinoa, oats)

2. Anti-Inflammatory Foods:

Inflammation can make symptoms worse. Anti-inflammatory foods help reduce this:

Turmeric: Contains curcumin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. You can add it to soups, teas, or smoothies.
Ginger: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. Add it to meals or drink it as tea.
Olive oil: Rich in oleocanthal, which reduces inflammation. Use it for cooking or salad dressings.
Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and arugula are rich in antioxidants and help reduce inflammation.

3. Antifungal Foods:

Certain foods have antifungal properties that may help fight the infection:

Garlic: Contains allicin, which has antifungal properties. You can add garlic to your meals or consume it raw.
Coconut oil: Contains caprylic acid, known for its antifungal effects. Use it in cooking or apply it topically to the affected areas with caution.
Apple cider vinegar: Has antifungal properties. You can dilute it with water and drink it, or use it topically on the affected area (always patch test first).

4. Probiotic-Rich Foods:

Probiotics help maintain a healthy gut, supporting overall immune health. Include these foods:

Yogurt (with live cultures)
Kefir
Sauerkraut or kimchi (fermented vegetables)
Miso
Tempeh

5. Hydration:

Drinking enough water is essential to stay hydrated and support the body’s natural detox processes.

Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint, or ginger tea can also help soothe inflammation and support healing.
Coconut water is an excellent option for replenishing electrolytes and keeping you hydrated.

6. Foods to Avoid:

Some foods can worsen inflammation or provide nutrients that fungi thrive on. Avoid these:

Sugar: Sugar can feed fungal infections and weaken your immune system.
Processed foods: These foods are often high in sugar and unhealthy fats, which can promote inflammation.
Dairy (for some people): Dairy can sometimes increase mucus production and inflammation, so it may be beneficial to limit it during recovery.

Homeopathic treatment for Ringworm is natural, safe and without any side-effects, and one can enjoy immense relief from these frustrating symptoms.

It is a patient-oriented science and medicines are prescribed on the characteristics of the individual rather than just the symptoms of the disease.

Sepia – for ringworm in isolated spots:

It is the top natural remedy especially for ringworm infection appearing in isolated spots.
Although the ringworm lesion for using sepia can be noticed on any part of the body, additionally the common location is the bends of the knee and elbow.
The eruptions are accompanied by itching and scratching, though scratching does not provide any relief.
Apart from these symptoms, increased sweating with or without a bad smell may be noticed in persons requiring Sepia.
Another peculiar symptom for using sepia is the recurrence of ringworm infection in every spring season.
Sepia can help in eradicating the tendency to have a ringworm infection every time the spring season approaches.
High sensitivity towards cold air may be found with these symptoms.
The mental symptoms of utmost importance while recommending sepia are irritability and indifferent behavior towards family, friends, and life.

Tellurium – for ringworm infection with lesions on large part of body:

Tellurium is the best natural medicine when ringworm eruptions cover a large part of the body.
Here, the ringworm lesions join one another and eventually cover a large area of skin.
Moreover, The body is densely covered with intersecting ring lesions.
In detail, The ringworm eruptions with clear margins are easily detectable on an increased surface of the skin for using tellurium.
Eruptions are marked by excessive itching and stinging sensation.
The itching remains present throughout day also night.
Besides this, Cold air seems to worsen the itching.
All in all, An offensive smell from the area covered with ringworm eruptions is frequently noticed.

Sulphur – for intense itching and burning:

In treating ringworm lesions also, sulphur is quite successful.
The main complaint described by ringworm patients that helps in selecting sulphur is intense itching also burning in eruptions.
The person goes on scratching the lesions but it does not seem to provide any relief.
Only the intense burning sensation follows scratching.
Additionally, The itching is heightened at night in most patients who can benefit from sulphur.
It is also of great help in all cases of ringworm appearing on limbs, scalp, trunk, and face when accompanied by intense itching and burning.
This remedy specifically helps to soothe the itching and burning, followed by the disappearance of eruptions.
Sulphur is a deep acting natural remedy that can help in root extraction of ringworm lesions if used for some time.
Lastly, It should always be the first Homeopathic choice in those cases of ringworm that have been suppressed with local medications of varying kinds.

Psorinum – for Ringworm (Tinea)

on scalp and bends of joints:

Psorinum is an excellent skin remedy used for the treatment of ringworm.
It is mainly used for ringworm infection of scalp also bends of joints.
Furthermore, The eruptions are excessively itching.
In most cases, the itching is enhanced in bed due to warmth.
Hair loss is the key noticeable feature for using natural remedy psorinum for ringworm of the scalp (Tinea Capitis).
In a few cases, the hair appears dry, rough also lustreless.
Another key symptom is profuse sweating with bad odour throughout the body.
High sensitivity to cold air is another prominent symptom to be noted for using Psorinum.
The persons needing psorinum cannot tolerate cold air even in summer weather.

Arsenic Album – for scalp Ringworm (Tinea) :

It is a very beneficial natural remedy for ringworm of scalp.
The scalp shows bald spots with intolerable itching.
The scalp is rough and dry.
Along with itching, there is an intense burning sensation.
The symptoms of itching and burning are most markedly disturbing at night.
Arsenic Album helps in all spheres to reduce itching, burning and also helps in regrowth of hair on bald spots.
Apart from these local symptoms, a few general symptoms are also to be taken into account in selecting Arsenic Album for Tinea Capitis.
The first is acute anxiety.
The second is extreme restlessness.
The next is fastidiousness with a desire for clean surroundings and objects to be placed at a proper place.
Thirst for a small quantity of water at very short intervals is another important symptom which is significant for selecting arsenic album.
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What is Ringworm?

Ringworm is a common infection of the skin that is caused by fungus & characterised by itchy red circular rash. Ringworm is also called “tinea” or “dermatophytosis.”

Homeopathic Medicines used by Homeopathic Doctors in treatment of Ringworm?

Sepia
Tellurium
Sulphur
Psorinum
Arsenic Album

What causes Ringworm?

Fungi
Skin-to-skin contact
Animal infected with ringworm
Touching soil infected
Using an infected object

What are the symptoms of Ringworm?

Itchy skin
Ring-shaped rash
Red, scaly, cracked skin
Hair loss

Give the types of Ringworm ?

Tinea pedis
Tinea cruris
Tinea capitis
Tinea barbae
Tinea manuum
Tinea unguium
Tinea corporis

Reference

Davidson’s Principles and Practice of Medicine (22nd edition) Ch. 28
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/158004.php
https://www.healthline.com/health/ringworm#pictures
https://www.cdc.gov/fungal/diseases/ringworm/diagnosis.html
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/contagious-skin-diseases/ringworm#treatment
https://www.drhomeo.com/homeopathic-treatment/homeopathic-medicine-ringworms/