Jock Itch - How To Find Natural Relief

Trichophyton rubrum is the fungus that causes jock itch. Jock itch is a miserable fungal infection that more often affects men than women. The areas of the body that are affected are genitals, inner thighs, groin area, and buttocks. The trichophyton rubrum fungus thrives in a warm and moist environment, which is why jock itch is prevalent in these areas.

Jock itch is not a serious problem — just generally uncomfortable and miserable. It causes an itchy burning sensation, thus the term jock itch. Those who are overweight or who sweat profusely are more inclined to get jock itch. You do need to treat jock itch, even though alone it is not a serious problem; because if it is left untreated, more serious problems can develop.

Jock itch usually develops in a warm and moist environment. Tight underwear which is not washed frequently enough will aggravate the symptoms of jock itch. People who have any disorder that compromises their immune system, such as diabetes or HIV positive, are more prone to jock itch. Jock itch is contagious and can be passed from person to person through personal contact or through shared personal belongings. Women do not usually have jock itch, but it can be passed to women sexually.

Jock itch is a fungal infection. It is NOT a bacterial infection. Antibiotic salves and creams will have no effect on jock itch. You need to treat jock itch with antifungal medications. Many anti-fungal medicines are available over the counter - do not worry it if seems marketed to women. None of these medications have any particular side effects and they are effective. Follow the directions on the package.

There are some tried-and-true home remedies for jock itch:

1. You can apply raw garlic or the juice of garlic alternating with applications of honey to the affected area.

2. Use silica to keep the groin area dry to help prevent jock itch.

3. Change underwear frequently.

4. Keep the area clean and dry

5. Use essential oils which have been diluted in a carrier oil such as lavender oil, oregano oil and tea tree oil, when applied frequently throughout the day.

Whichever remedy you try for jock itch, please do remember that if you find it doesn't go within a couple of weeks you will need to go and visit your doctor. They may do a skin scrape to see any fungal or bacterial infection.