Treating Ringworm the Natural Way

Balsam of Tolu (Toluifera balsamum)

The resin from this South American balsam tree is collected from incisions in the trunk of the tree. It is used to flavor some cough syrups, gum and soft drinks. Since the Seventeenth century it has been exported for its benefits in treating bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections. The British use it for scabies, itching and eczema. As purchased, this balsam is made up of 50 to 64 percent volatile oils and 20 to 28 percent resin. The oil is made up of benzoic and cinnamic acid esters, which are thought to be the primary therapeutic compounds. Some sensitive individuals may get an allergic skin reaction even to small amounts and should discontinue use immediately. In most cases, though, mixing one part of balsam resin with three parts of almond or grape seed oil and applying this to the scalp daily for three weeks is said to improve the healing of a ringworm infection.

Tee Tree Oil (Melaleuca alternifolia)

he medicinal components of tea tree oil are terpenoids, which have both antiseptic and antifungal actions. It is used to treat skin conditions including acne, athlete's foot, dandruff and vaginitis. For ringworm, make up a compress with tea tree oil by soaking a piece of cotton gauze in the oil. Place this between two pieces of clean cloth and apply to the affected area three times a day. It may be held in place with a longer piece of cloth. Do not use a piece of plastic wrap to cover. As the compress warms up to body temperature, the healing qualities of the tea tree oil will be released. CAUTION: Those who are allergic to celery or thyme should not use tea tree oil.

Walnut Leaf (Juglans regia)

Use the extract of this herb to make up compresses as described above. It should help with any oozing from the fungal infection. Native Americans used this remedy of hundreds of years against ringworm, eczema and acne. It has antibacterial qualities as well as being an astringent. CAUTION: An allergic reaction to Walnut Leaf may be signaled by breathing problems, chest pain, hives or a rash. Stop using the herb immediately and contact your doctor if this occurs.

Wild Oregano

Over six hundred years ago the physician Paracelsus used Wild Oregano to treat fungal diseases among other problems. The component that provides medicinal benefit is carvacrol, a natural phenol with strong anti-microbial capability. Additional chemicals in the oregano are flavonoids and terpenes, with antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Reputedly, wild oregano oil can kill even highly resistant types of fungi. Use the oil as directed on the label.

Sources

Herbal medicines for treatment of fungal infections: a systematic review of controlled clinical trials