
Jock itch appears in the form of red, raised, and plate-like itchy patches, which peel off after sometime. Let’s take a look at some natural ways to alleviate this condition.
Caused by the fungus, Trichophyton rubrum, jock itch is a fungal infection affecting the groin, inner thighs, buttocks, and genital area. It appears in the form of itchy patches, which progress to become an unbearably itchy condition.
Wearing sweaty clothes in the summers or layers in the winters can cause different regions of the body to be warm and moist. This makes the skin vulnerable to this fungal infection. Factors like debilitated immune system due to high antibiotic intake, diabetes, and obesity can also cause this condition.
Home Remedies for Jock Itch
If you’re suffering from the condition, it is important to first hit the shower and wash the infected areas thoroughly with antibacterial soap. Once you have showered, you need to thoroughly dry the area with a dry towel. You can also use the blow dryer, however, make sure you use the lowest setting possible.
Garlic
Garlic, due to its excellent antifungal properties is a wonderful natural remedy. Eating some cloves of raw garlic has been observed to heal the condition. However, if you find munching on raw garlic difficult, simply blend 2-3 cloves of garlic with one cup of olive oil. Then dip 3-4 paper napkins into the garlic oil and make a compress. Apply this compress to the itchy patches and experience relief.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is well-known for its medicinal and therapeutic properties. When applied directly on the itchy patches, it relieves itching and burning sensation. Apply the oil with a cotton ball twice a day, and keep applying for about 4-5 days, till the symptoms disappear completely. However, before using this oil it’s important to consult your health care provider.
Chlorine Bleach
Take two tablespoons of bleach and dilute it in 16 ounces of hot water. Soak a towel or washcloth into this solution and gently dab the bleach solution onto the infected area. Do this every few hours. The bleach completely destroys the infection, however, it’s important to remember never to apply bleach solution directly. Bleach is strong and by itself can conduce to burns on the skin. Again, consult your health care provider before using this remedy.
Salt Bath
For stubborn jock itch rashes that show no signs of leaving (especially those accompanied by blisters and boils), a salt bath is beneficial. Fill a bathtub with tepid water and add about 1½ cups of salt into it and stir. Once the salt dissolves, get into the bathtub and soak in it for half an hour. The salt will work its way into the rashes and blisters, by drawing out the liquid from the blister and drying up the jock itch rash. With a towel or blow dryer, dry the area thoroughly and get dressed in loose-fitting clothing. Repeat this procedure twice or thrice a day for complete cure.
If you are suffering from jock itch rashes, it’s advised to refrain from consuming refined carbs, sugar and various food items containing yeasts. Moreover, one should refrain from alcohol intake because the alcohol ultimately gets converted to sugar. Replace all greasy, processed, and fried foods with fresh fruits and raw vegetables. These measures will complement the remedy you are using and will help the condition heal faster.
Disclaimer: This article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.