How to Treat Tinea Corporis in Ayurveda?

Tinea Corporis, commonly known as ringworm of the body, is a fungal infection caused by a fungus called dermatophytes. It usually appears as a circular rash with clearer skin in the middle and causes itchy sensations. The infection, though not serious is contagious and spreads when one comes into contact with the infected person.

The word ringworm comes from the appearance of the rash which is a circular ring and hasn’t got anything to do with worms. Ringworm infections may affect other parts of the body as well which includes:

• Ringworm of the scalp, or Tinea Capitis
• Jock Itch, or Tinea Cruris
• Athlete’s Foot, or Tinea Pedis

In this article, we’ll discuss the Causes of Tinea Corporis, its symptoms, and various herbal and ayurvedic treatments that can help in treating the infection.

Causes of Tinea Corporis

As mentioned above, the origin of the infection comes from the dermatophytes fungus. The fungus thrives on keratin tissue, which is present in the nails, hair, and skin of the body. The spreading of the infection depends on certain direct and indirect factors, which may be observed below:

1. Direct contact with an infected person, is the most common cause of the infection.
2. Animals such as cats and dogs are highly prone to contract this infection. Coming into direct contact with an infected animal may also lead to ringworm of the body. The infection is also highly common amongst cows, pigs, rabbits, goats, and horses.
3. The infection also spread through inanimate objects. Coming into direct contact with objects used by an infected person such as bedding, towels, clothing, floors or hair may also be the cause of its spreading.
4. A very rare scenario may be contracting the infection by coming into contact with infected soil.

Risk Factors

• People living in hot, humid, and warm places run at the risk of getting this infection.
• Excessive sweating can also lead to ringworm in the body.
• Sharing personal belongings such as clothing, towels, bedding, etc.
• Excessive tight clothing can also lead to this condition.
• People who play contact sports might also contract this fungal infection.
• A weak immune system can also be one of the causes.

Symptoms of Tinea Corporis

Few typical Symptoms of Tinea Corporis include:

• Circular – ring-shaped rash with raised edges.
• Itchy skin around the rash.
• Redness accompanied by pain.
• Rings around the patch might overlap.
• The symptoms usually begin to show after a week of coming into contact with the fungus. 

Treatment of Tinea Corporis

The infection being highly contagious is difficult to prevent. Therefore, taking measures to contain and treat it becomes even more important to prevent its further spread. A few preventive steps that may help in reducing the risk of ringworm are:

1. Stay aware of your surroundings and remain cautious when coming into contact with people.
2. Always ensure personal hygiene and the cleanliness of your surroundings.
3. Change your clothing often if you sweat excessively.
4. Never share beddings, towels, or items of clothing.
5. Wear comfortable and clean clothes which are not too tightly fitted to the skin.

Having discussed the preventive measures, let us now take a look at the Herbal Remedies for Treating Tinea Corporis:

1. Turmeric: The anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric make it a magical remedy for treating various conditions. It is also anti-fungal which makes it perfect for treating ringworm of the body. Application of turmeric paste over the infected area or consumption of turmeric water, both work effectively in healing and providing relief from the infection.
2. Aloe Vera: Aloe vera is a wonderful natural remedy for treating fungal and bacterial infections. Its cooling effect helps in soothing the inflammatory, itchy, and burning sensations caused due to the infection. Apply aloe vera gel over the rash at least thrice a day for effective results.
3. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil contains anti-fungal and microbial properties that help in providing relief from itchy sensations. Must be applied at least thrice a day over the infected area.
4. Oregano Oil: The antifungal benefits of oregano oil are lesser-known facts. The application of oregano oil can help in the treatment of ringworm infections.
5. Lemongrass Tea or Oil: Brewed lemongrass tea, or for more effective results, lemongrass oil extract must be consumed or applied over the infection, for they contain anti-fungal properties that help in treating the infection.

Conclusion

The contraction of the ringworm infection is difficult to contain, considering the fact that the symptoms appear about a week post coming into contact with the fungus. But following the above-mentioned preventive measures and herbal treatment can sure help you in treating Tinea Corporis. For any further Medical or Ayurvedic assistance, get in touch with us at IAFA®, where we provide Herbal Medical Solutions and Treatments to cure infections, allergies, and diseases.