Jock Itch: its causes, symptoms, and natural treatment(s)

Jock itch: causes, symptoms, and natural treatment(s)

Jock itch (clinically known as tinea crursis) is an infection that is caused by pathogen fungi called dermatophytes. This fungus requires keratin to grow therefore it lives on the outer dead layer of the skin, nails, or hairs. It mostly develops in the groin area, upper thighs, and buttocks. This fungus generally grows in moist and warm areas as round, red, flaky, and itchy rashes. This is a contagious disease. It is advisable not to share your personal essentials with others for safety measures. Let us read more about its causes, its types, home treatments, symptoms, and precautions. 

Jock Itch: Causes

Jock itch usually occurs due to several reasons. Most obvious ones as follows:

• Friction by rub from clothing
• Excessive sweating 
• Diabetes 
• Obesity
• Athlete Foot 
• Using a dirty towel/cloth, etc.

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What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of jock itch are similar to ringworm with some additional signs such as:

Types of Jock Itch

• Red raised skin 
• Scaly defined border
• Blisters
• Rashes 
• Flaky dry skin
• Small bumps with pustules
• Severe itching

Jock Itch Home Remedies 

We have mentioned four herbal remedies in the following article that can help in curing and relieving the itching problems. These remedies will show the results only after its proper and consistent use. Do not expect a quick fix with the remedies.  

Remedy 1: Daily take 1 tsp of Triphala powder with a glass of water. Do it consistently until your jock itch fades away. Avoid oily, sour, and spicy food to get quick results.

Triphala Powder

 Remedy 2: Mix some Triphala powder in the water container. (1:3 Ratio). Store this mixture for 12 hours. Wash your affected areas with this water. All the itching in the scalp, stomach, or any other area will go away. This remedy is also beneficial for piles.

Remedy 3: Take black pepper powder with some clarified butter (Ghee) every day. It will reduce the itchy rash. Do it on an empty stomach.

Remedy 4: Eat no salt chapatti of gram flour for 2 months. This will cure the itchy rash and dark marks.

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Jock Itch Prevention(s)

Prevention is better than cure. Any person can be saved from jock itch if he or she maintains proper hygienic habits as mentioned below:

1. Keep Dry: Always keep the thighs and genital area dry with a clean towel after bathing or swimming. Avoid cleaning your feet in the first place to save yourself from the athlete’s foot. 
2. Wear washed fabrics: Never re-wear clothes that are sweaty or not washed properly. Always ensure to wear clean clothes especially undergarments. Try to always choose breathable fabrics like pure cotton instead of synthetic fiber.
3. Wear loose outfits: Do not wear excessively tight dresses as they will create friction on the skin. Choose garments that are loose enough to give at least one finger space. 
4. Avoid sharing personal essentials: Never share or borrow personal hygienic essentials such as towels, boxers, clothes, or socks.
5. Exercise: Proper weight will ensure no friction of thighs and maximum body heat disposal. By exercising the person will get fitter and healthier, therefore, leading to better and improved skin.  

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FAQs

Q. Will jock itch disappear on its own?

No! Jock itch does not vanish on its own. However, it can be treated with simple home remedies as we have mentioned in the above article. 

Q. Why does jock itch cause discoloration on the skin?

This discoloration is caused due to post-inflammatoryhyperpigmentation. Where the damage is done to the topmost skin by deposition of melanin pigment. 

Q. How to prevent jock itch from further spread?

The best way to avoid the further spread of jock itch is not to touch or scratch it. By scratching, the fungus can enter your mouth through the fingers. It can lead to more problematic conditions. Always maintain proper hygiene like washing all the essentials. Keep another cloth/towel for the affected area. 

Q. Will Listerine be able to cure jock itch naturally?

Listerine contains alcohol that has antiseptic, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties which can help in providing relief from temporary inflammation and soothe the skin. However, it does not cure the infection permanently. 

Q. Why does the problem of jock itch return after some time?

Skin-related issues do not solve quickly if the person does not focus on proper hygiene. By using unwashed clothing, bed-sheet(s), or towel(s) can worsen the jock itch. Dermatologists also suggest not to use any anti-itch cream without a prescription as it can overspread the infection.

Q. How can baby powder be good for jock itch?

Baby powder cannot cure the problem of jock itch. However, it can be used to soothe the itchy rashes and prevent continuous rubbing of the skin. 

Q. What are the signs that show jock itch is healed?

You can easily detect the differences by the following signs:

• The raised level of bumps will flatten down.
• The redness will turn into dark spots.
• No fresh rashes or itching will appear.