Natural jock itch remedies can help ease the uncomfortable symptoms of this condition. Jock itch, also known as tinea cruris, is an infection that is caused by fungi known as dermatophytes. These fungi live in the skin of most people. The presence of this particular fungus is not problematic as long as the skin is kept dry and clean.
Tinea cruris thrives in warm moist conditions. This is why jock itch is most common among athletes and others who sweat a lot. Symptoms of jock itch include a burning sensation, peeling skin, and itching in the genital area. Although jock itch can cause major discomfort, it is usually not serious unless a person has a compromised immune system.
Herbs for Curing Jock Itch
Thyme tea is good for curing jock itch. According to 1,801 Home Remedies written by the editors of Reader's Digest (April 2002, Reader's Digest), thyme has thymol in it, which works well in blocking fungus. Prepare the tea by boiling one cup of water, add 2 teaspoons to thyme to it, and allow it to steep for 25 minutes. Let the tea cool and use a cotton ball to apply it to the groin.
Ginger can also be used for curing jock itch. It has several anti-fungal properties such as caprylic acid, which works extremely well in reducing fungus. For best results, boil one cup of water and add an ounce of ginger root that has been grated. Let it steep for 25 minutes. After it cools, dab a cotton ball into the liquid and then apply it to the affected area.
Probiotics as a Jock Itch Treatment
Probiotics are also sometimes used as a jock itch treatment. According to Smart Medicine for Healthier Living written by Janet Zand, Allan N. Spreen, and James B. LaValle (May 1999, Avery Publishing Group), jock itch and other fungal infections can occur if a person does not have adequate levels of probiotics. Probiotics are the so called good bacteria, which can slow the production of fungus.
To treat jock itch, the authors recommend taking probiotics supplements that contain 5 to 10 billion live bacteria in each capsule. This is equivalent to one half teaspoon of a probiotics powder. Information about the number of live bacteria and recommended dosage are provided on the label. Take the supplements three times a day.
Smart Medicine for Healthier Living also lists grapefruit seed extract as one of the effective jock itch remedies because of its ability to work against the spread of fungus. It is also available as a supplement and is extremely concentrated. The typical dosage amounts are between 2 and 6 drops twice or three times a day.
Jennifer Graham - Jennifer Graham is a Writer/Producer for a video production company. She helps create videos that raise awareness to health related ...
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