Jock Itch

Symptoms

Jock itch is a common fungal infection related to athlete’s foot, but affecting the skin folds of the inner thigh area. Signs are persistent itching and a flaking, slightly raised eruption, or a sudden flare-up of small red bumps which become moist. It can appear on one side or both, but usually begins on one side. Heat will aggravate the intense itching. Scratching injures the skin, causes burning and increases the likelihood of a bacterial infection developing on top of the fungal infection.

Causes

Jock itch, as the name implies, is a condition more common to men. It is caused by various types of fungi which thrive particularly well in these skin folds because the environment is moist and without air circulation. Fungal infections are easily passed on through towels and wet changing rooms. Even though this condition is highly contagious, not everyone is susceptible. Certain medications, like antibiotics, cortisone and oral contraceptives, change the normal acid balance of the skin’s surface and increase susceptibility. This also happens through the use of so-called hygiene sprays and perfumes. Too-frequent washing or, conversely, not bathing often enough can be a problem.

Nutrition

Eliminate sweet foods and sugary soft drinks from your diet. Sugar provides an environment in which fungal infections flourish. Eat plain, unsweetened yogurt, drink kefir or eat sauerkraut daily. These lactic acid fermented foods inhibit the growth of fungal organisms. Garlic is an effective antifungal agent, so use it liberally in salads, soups and sauces.

Nutritional Supplements

Acidophilus can improve the intestinal flora, which helps combat the growth of fungi everywhere. Acidophilus cultures are found in natural yogurts, but the capsules contain more of these natural bacteria. B complex vitamins are also recommended to improve overall health. The B vitamins especially help a stubborn fungal infection by relaxing the nervous system and strengthening the immune system. Colloidal silver also has antifungal properties.

Daily dosages:

Lactobacillus acidophilus, 3 capsules or 1 tsp.

Vitamin B complex, 100 mg

Colloidal silver, 1 tsp.

Herbal Remedies

To disinfect and promote healing, rub camomile, horsetail or sage infusion on the affected area.

Olive oil, oregano oil, psyllium seed powder and husks, taheebo tea, gentian, garlic, flax seed oil and caprylic acid are all natural antifungal therapies which can be used internally.

Olive leaf extract is a natural antifungal remedy which has recently become popular because of its effectiveness without side-effects.

Tea tree oil applied directly to the lesion is beneficial, as are aloe vera gel and calendula cream.

Homeopathy

The homeopathic approach to many skin conditions is unique to the individual. Consult an experienced homeopath for treatment to achieve lasting results.

Tissue Salts

Take 4 tablets four times daily under the tongue for one week or longer, if the tissue salt seems to be working but has not resolved the condition.

Kali sulph is a major tissue salt for fungal skin conditions. The skin eruptions are typically watery, yellow and foul or dry, scaly and peeling. Heat aggravates.

Silicea will often help persistent fungal eruptions that itch. The feet and hands perspire easily and nails are brittle. Cold aggravates and warmth improves the condition.

For clear, watery blisters that cause burning and irritation, use Nat mur. Later, the skin can form thin, transparent scales.

Calc sulph is useful when the discharge becomes thick and yellow and the skin is unhealthy, refusing to heal.

External/Physical Therapies

Wash affected area with a mixture of 1/2 pint apple cider vinegar and 1 quart warm water.

Underwear and pants should be made of natural materials like cotton and worn loosely to allow moisture to escape and air to circulate. Wash them in hot water and change regularly to prevent reinfection.

Whey concentrate, applied with a cotton ball and left overnight is an effective disinfectant. Repeat daily until condition disappears.

Available Brand Name Products

Nutritional Supplements

Acidophilus & Bifidus

(Natural Factors)

Mega Acidophilus Powder

(Natural Factors)

Herbal Remedies

Horsetail Leaves (Flora)

Yeast Busters (Inno-Vite)

Echinacea Tincture (Natural Factors)

Echinacea Fresh Juice Extract

(Natural Factors)

Garlic, Odorless (Nature’s Herbs)

Psyllium Seed (Nature’s Herbs)

Garlic Plus FOS (Quintessence)

External Therapies

Camomile Oil

(Karooch Essential Oils)

Lavender Oil

(Karooch Essential Oils)

Myrrh Oil (Karooch Essential Oils)