Healthy Living

Alternative Treatments for Jock Itch

Alternative Treatments for Jock Itch

Jock Itch is a contagious skin condition. It is acquired through an infectious fungus belonging to the Dermatophyte family of microorganisms. It is characterized by clusters of rashes appearing like raised ridges with scaly edges that cause unbearable itching and soreness. Usually, the infection disappears within a couple of days, but severe infections lasting months are routinely treated with antifungal topical creams, pills, lotions and shampoos.

Modern medical formulations are fast acting and mitigate pain, irritation, and  inflammation, but not without creating a host of side effects that are worrisome. To avoid the harmful effects of modern drugs, several alternative treatments have emerged offering solutions that are not as aggravating and dangerous as modern drugs.  

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1. Maintaining the health of the gastro-intestinal tract

Allergens in foods routinely create skin problems by upsetting digestion and the proper assimilation of nutrients. The following treatments effectively restore gastrointestinal functioning, reducing skin eruptions that encourage fungal growth:

  • In the absence of friendly intestinal bacteria, rival bacteria release toxins that upset digestion. A timely solution is replacing it with a more benign Lactobacillus acidophilus through a retention enema. Repeat three times per week, retaining the nutrient solution for at least ten minutes each time.
  • Slowly increase intake of psyllium, a known plant sourced from a fibrous laxative, and spices like ginger and turmeric that nullify the action of toxins released by harmful bacteria.
  • Avoid excessive sugar, alcohol, meat products, fermented products, and gluten-rich foods like wheat, oats, and rye. In candida yeast infections, avoiding oral contraceptives are a must.  
  • Completely avoid antibiotics and corticosteroids that destroy useful bacteria and encourage candida (yeast) growth.

2. Leveraging the curative powers of home remedies

Tea Tree Oil: It is very useful in curtailing infection, combating inflammation, and soothing irritation that accompanies the Jock Itch infection. The oil can be applied directly on  theinfected skin or diluted with jojoba oil. Adding a few drops of the oil in warm bath water soothes irritated skin.

Apple Cider Vinegar: Two tablespoons mixed in a cup of clear water applied three times daily to affected skin combats both fungi and infection, besides rejuvenating the skin.

The salt water douche: Take a shallow circular tub and fill it to the brim with water mixed with enough salt to make the solution salty, then add a cup of vinegar to balance the pH to that of the skin. Sit in the tub, legs apart, fully immersing the groin area. Relax for ten to fifteen minutes, and repeat twice daily.

3. The homeopathic cure for Jock Itch

Homeopathic remedies are free from side effects associated with modern drug use. Homeopathy widely uses sulfur preparations to combat fungal infections. Sulfur medication mixed in baby oils to achieve a paste-like consistency can be directly applied to the affected skin for instant relief.  

4. The Ayurvedic cure for Jock Itch

The seeds, bark and leaves of the tropical Neem tree (Azadirachta indica) are extensively used in Ayurvedic (Indian) preparations to combat Jock Itch. Neem paste mixed with turmeric powder applied directly to affected skin relieves itching and refreshes the skin within a couple of days.

5. A Jock Itch solution in the Chinese system of medicine

Bupleurum is a plant of Asian origin, the roots of which are used in Chinese formulations to  relieve Jock Itch. Compounds in the formulation encourage the immune system to fight fungal infections effectively.

6. Lifestyle choices to help improve treatment of Jock Itch

  • Thoroughly clean the groin area with mild disinfecting soap after heavy exercise and outdoor activity once in the morning and evening.
  • Change undergarments regularly and buy new ones every three months.
  • Change towels frequently and keep them washed and clean especially after swimming and gym routines.
  • Never use synthetic materials that irritate the skin. Choose cotton undergarments that breathe easily, and those that absorb moisture and sweat and keep the groin dry.
  • Prevent athlete’s foot by wearing socks and sandals while moving outdoors.