Homeopathy rings out ringworm

Ringworm, medically known as Tinea corporis and ‘Daad’ in Hindi, is actually not caused by a worm, but a fungus. Ringworm refers to a superficial fungal infection of the body. It occurs more commonly in warm, tropical environments, affects men and women equally, affecting people of all age groups. Ringworm acquired from animals is more common in children.

Ringworm is contagious and is passed on from individual to individual or through contact with contaminated clothing, showers, pools or combs. Hygiene is always a good preventive measure for any fungus infection. Using a steroid type cream on the rash will make it worse; so this is not recommended. Of course, trying to avoid any contact with infected pets will help. It is best to avoid using clothing, cosmetics, combs or towels that have been used by someone else.

Local application of an antifungal is the line of treatment in the conventional system of medicine, which, in fact, suppresses it only to manifest later in a more severe form. Individuals who suspect that they or their pets are infected with ringworm are advised to seek appropriate medical attention.

Underlying factors such as diabetes and obesity must be considered when treating Tinea. I remember the case of 47-year-old Shekhar, who was 10-12 kg overweight and had recurrent episodes of ringworm. The diagnosis was confirmed through a wood’s lamp examination, which showed fluorescence. Antifungal ointments would help temporarily. A blood sugar test confirmed that he was a diabetic. A few doses of Chrysarobinum 6C were prescribed. He was advised to lose weight, wear loose-fitting cotton clothes, have a bath twice daily and keep the skin dry. A diabetic diet was advised. Shekhar responded well to the treatment, his repeat blood sugar level showed normal levels and considerable reduction in the Tinea was also seen. For consecutive months, no fluorescence was seen under wood’s lamp, confirming that he was cured.

Homeopathic remedies for ringworm:

Tellurium 30C, five pills twice daily for ringworm confined to the trunk
Merc sol 30C, five pills once daily for ringworm in the groin

Article by Dr Mukesh Batra
L.C.E.H., F.H.M.A. (U.K.), F.R.S.H. (Med) P.(Lon), M.D.H. (U.S.A.), F.B.I.H.(U.K.)
Published in Times of India on 28 April 2009