In this article, we’ll cover the following:
- Coconut Oil and Ringworm: What Does the Research Say?
- How to Use Coconut Oil for Ringworm?
- Coconut Oil and Garlic Essential Oil
Ringworm, or what’s medically termed as tinea, is a common fungal infection. Certain fungi can help our body. However, a particular type of fungi called as dermatophytes can irritate the skin and lead to infection. Almost seven out of ten people have experienced ringworm once in their life. It may be called as ringworm, but worms don’t cause it.
It’s a contagious skin infection that can easily be passed on from one person to another.
When infected with ringworm, it may cause a particular part of your skin to create a scaly rash that appears like a ring or round shape. That’s why it’s called ringworm. The fungal infection causes itchiness and discomfort. They usually appear on the skin, scalp, groin and other moist areas of your body.
Coconut oil has traditionally been used as a natural option for ringworm, and its fatty acids, including lauric acid, have been studied for antifungal properties. Research into its effectiveness for ringworm continues, and results may vary.

How does coconut oil help?
Here’s why coconut oil has been discussed in relation to ringworm and skin care:
- Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has been studied for antifungal and antimicrobial properties, particularly in laboratory settings.
- Coconut oil can help moisturize and condition dry skin.
- Coconut oil is commonly used as a skin moisturizer and may help support the skin’s natural moisture barrier.
- Coconut oil also contains fatty acids and other components that have been studied for their properties.
- Coconut oil helps restore the skin’s protective barrier to protect you from further infections.
Using Coconut Oil as Part of a Skin-Care Routine
After knowing all of coconut oil’s amazing facts, it’s time to know how to use it!
Here’s how:
- First thing, wash the infected area thoroughly with soap and warm water.
- Then, wash your hands thoroughly before and after treatment.
- Now it’s time to dry your skin.
- Apply coconut oil to the affected area and massage it gently. It’s advisable to use disposable gloves to apply coconut oil as ringworm can spread quickly.
- Leave the coconut oil on the skin.
The following describes topical use for general skin care and should not be considered a substitute for proven antifungal treatment or professional medical advice. You can also make a coconut oil bandage. Put coconut oil in the affected area and cover it with a bandage. It’s as effective as the steps I mentioned earlier.
If your ringworm is on your scalp, apply coconut oil at night before you sleep. Leave it overnight and rinse your scalp the following morning to remove the residue from the infection and coconut oil.
You can also mix coconut oil with other essential oils if you wish. Some people also combine coconut oil with essential oils for topical skin care, although this should not be considered a proven ringworm treatment.
Note: This video discusses the use of coconut oil for ringworm based on its antifungal properties and traditional use. Individual results may vary, and persistent or severe infections should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
Coconut Oil and Garlic Essential Oil
Garlic and coconut oil are both commonly discussed for their antifungal properties, and some people use them together as a natural topical option for ringworm. Individual results may vary.
You’ll need: 1 teaspoon of coconut oil and two drops of essential garlic oil
Just blend the oils and massage them onto the ringworm-infected areas after cleaning the skin. If used topically, avoid irritated or broken skin and discontinue use if irritation occurs. Ringworm should be appropriately diagnosed and treated, particularly if it persists or spreads.