Historical Ringworm Treatment (Not for Modern Use)
A historical topical treatment for ringworm from the 19th century using ammonia from gas tar, soft soap, and sulphur with treacle. This recipe is preserved for historical interest only and should NOT be used. Modern antifungal medications are safe, effective, and readily available from pharmacies and doctors.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Soft soap (Historical ingredient - do not use)
- 1 cup Warm water (For washing)
- 2 tablespoons Ammonia from gas tar (Historical ingredient - toxic and dangerous, do not use)
- 1 piece Linen rag (For application)
- 1 teaspoon Sulphur powder (Historical ingredient - do not ingest)
- 1 teaspoon Treacle (molasses) (Used to make sulphur palatable)
Instructions
- 1Mix soft soap with warm water. Wash the affected parts of skin thoroughly with the soap and water mixture. Pat dry completely with a clean towel.
- 2Dip a piece of linen rag into the ammonia from gas tar. Rub the dried affected areas thoroughly with the ammonia-soaked rag. Ensure the ammonia bottle is kept tightly corked when not in use.
- 3Mix sulphur powder with treacle to make it palatable. The patient should take this mixture as a gentle aperient (laxative).
- 4Wash all hair brushes and combs thoroughly with soap and water to prevent reinfection.
- 5Repeat the washing and ammonia application twice daily. Take the sulphur and treacle mixture every morning. Continue washing brushes and combs daily until the ringworm clears.
