Ringworm is caused by a fungal infection that affects the skin of humans, as well as the skin of domesticated animals like cats and dogs. The fungi of ringworm feed off skin that is moist and warm, and usually can be found in the nails, hair, or outer layer of the skin. They can sometimes be found on the outsides or the interior of hair shafts. Ringworm usually looks like a circular or a half moon shape on the skin. It can be inflamed, itchy, and painful. The fungi of ringworm are the same fungi that results in athletes’ foot.
Ringworm has been around since before the early 1900s. During that time, the condition was normally treated with iodine, sulfur, or with compounds of mercury. In today’s times, there are many more ways to treat ringworm. Using apple cider vinegar for ringworm treatment is an option for many people. Apple cider vinegar has natural anti-fungal properties, and matches human skin pH levels. Because of these properties, it’s safe to use on skin.
If you, another household member, or pet is suffering from ringworm, you need to treat not only your skin, but also the skin of pets. You’ll also need to kill the fungi on clothes and bedding. To treat human skin, it is recommended to apply undiluted apple cider vinegar on the effected area on infection. Use a cotton ball or a piece of gauze to apply it. For best results, do this about five or six times every day. If you’re treating ringworm on the feet (athlete’s foot), don’t be alarmed if it stings when you apply it. If it hurts too much, try soaking your feet in warm water mixed with apple cider vinegar for a while, until the infection clears up a bit more. Then try applying the apple cider vinegar again with a cotton ball or piece of gauze. By using apple cider vinegar for ringworm, it not only kills the fungi, but it can help prevent ringworm infections from occurring again in the future.
Ringworm fungi can linger for a while in clothes and bedding even after you’ve cleared the skin infection. You can use apple cider vinegar to treat fabrics that have been infested with the ringworm fungi. Most fabrics won’t react badly if you apply the vinegar directly to them. Wash bedding and other fabrics in hot water to kill the fungi completely. If you no longer have athlete’s foot, you could be at risk for getting it again, if you don’t take care of your shoes. Shoes are a great place for the fungi, since they’re dark and moist inside. Most shoes can be washed in the washing machine, so you’ll want to wash them in hot water to kill any lingering fungi. Applying apple cider vinegar to the insides of your shoes can also help.
For dogs and cats who are suffering from ringworm, apple cider vinegar can help. Apple cider vinegar changes the pH value of the dog’s or cat’s skin, making an inhospitable environment for the fungi. There have been many instances in which pet owners have had great success with using apple cider vinegar to treat ringworm. Make sure to wash any bedding that your pets sleep on, to kill any lingering fungi after the infection has been cleared up. If your pet sleeps on the bed or on other furniture, be sure to wash the sheets, comforter and any other fabrics in hot water. Couches and chairs can be applied with apple cider vinegar to kill the lingering fungi.
Ringworm is not pleasant to deal with, but it can be manageable. By using apple cider vinegar for ringworm, you can help speed up the healing process.
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