Ringworm has absolutely nothing to do with a worm of any kind. It was believed for many, many years that ringworm was caused by a worm that invaded the body through the skin or bowels and caused circular eruptions on the skin. Actually, doctors have known since the nineteenth century that ringworm was not caused by a worm but rather by a fungus, and yet the name remains.

Ringworm should be diagnosed by a dermatologist. There are many other skin problems that can look very much like ringworm. Ringworm IS contagious! It can be passed from person to person by skin-to-skin contact. Ringworm can also be transmitted between humans and animals, so it is vital that it be diagnosed and treated as early as possible.

Treatment for ringworm is absolutely painless. A dermatologist can prescribe a topical medication that will kill the fungus in a matter of just a few days. There are also herbal and home remedies for ringworm that are very effective.

A 50% solution of apple cider vinegar and water applied to the affected area for 15 minutes twice a day can clear up ringworm. Just two drops of tea tree oil in an ounce of water has also been proven to work. Myrrh, peppermint, lavender, and geranium essential oils have all been successfully used to treat ringworm. Additionally, there are over-the-counter medications for the treatment of ringworm. However, you should not consider this information to be medical advice. It is not. A dermatologist needs to diagnose ringworm before any treatment is applied.

Remember that ringworm is contagious. Use care when treating ringworm to avoid spreading the fungus from person to person or between humans and animals.