Can Apple Cider Vinegar Cure Ringworm?

Ringworm is not caused by worms but by a fungus. This fungus can cause circular or ring-shaped patches on the skin which are both itchy and red. Ringworm is very contagious and can spread easily between humans as well as between pets and humans, especially from cats. Ringworm enjoys dark and moist areas and often occur in parts of the body like the feet or the groin. Using apple cider vinegar to treat ringworm has been helpful for some people when used as a topical application.

Apple cider vinegar is used as a natural treatment for many different things and it is especially effective in the treatment of fungi like ringworm because of its anti-fungal properties. By topically applying apple cider vinegar to the infected area using cotton in either a ball or swab form, people can reduce and even eliminate the ringworm infection. This treatment must be used a few times per day in order for it to be effective.

Apple cider vinegar may relieve a lot of the irritation associated with ringworm or fungal infections although the application can cause a brief stinging. This stinging does not last long. The apple cider vinegar may work to kill the ringworm fungus and as it works the skin infection will grow less severe and in some cases completely disappear.

There are several benefits to using apple cider vinegar as a treatment method for ringworm and other fungi. Apple cider vinegar is a safe and natural treatment that doesn’t contain any of the chemicals that many of the creams and powders available from pharmacies do. People often feel more comfortable using an all-natural treatment on their pets or children because it is non-toxic and contact with it is not dangerous. However, some instances of ringworm may be severe and these may not be able to be cured with apple cider vinegar alone. If an infection persists for several weeks, consulting a doctor and the use of a prescription strength anti-fungal may be necessary to treat serious infections. Many mild fungal infections can be treated in the home with apple cider vinegar.

Although apple cider vinegar is safe and non-toxic, it is very acidic and should still be kept out of reach of children. The acid may results in skin burns in some people and so it is best to only use a small amount during the first dose and to make sure to observe the skin carefully during the first days of use. Put a small dose of apple cider vinegar on an area that is not infected with ringworm before beginning the treatment on infection areas. Determining a sensitivity to apple cider vinegar is important to prevent any further discomfort or any potential burns.

Medical doctors or homeopaths like Dr. Christina Starkman can provide advice for those who are hoping to find a suitable home treatment for fungal infections like ringworm, such as a apple cider vinegar. Dr. Starkman says that the use home remedies may only be effective for infections that cause one or two areas of discomfort.

Dr. Starkman suggests that soaking a towel in apple cider vinegar and applying it to the affected are for two 30 minute sessions per day can take care of ringworm infections in three to four weeks, though Dr. Starkman insists that any serious infections should be treated by a doctor.