Jock Itch

The folds of the skin in the region of the inner thigh is affected by the jock itch, which is a common fungal infection similar to athlete's foot, and is caused by related fungal species. A slightly raised eruption of the skin and persistent itching and a flaking of the skin are some of the signs of jock itch, there may also be a sudden flare-up of small red bumps, they are moist when touched. It usually begins on one side of the body but can affect either sides or both at the same time. The intense desire to itch is aggravated by heat. The skin is broken and injured when scratched and a burning sensation result. This breaking of the skin aggravates the chances of a bacterial infection developing. In addition to the fungal infection that is the causative agent of the itch.

Men are the usual victims of the jock itch, as the name suggests. Because of the moist and airless environment in the region of the thigh, various types of fungi thrive particularly well in these skin folds and these growths of fungi are the causes for the itch. The sharing of towels and using wet-changing rooms easily pass on the fungal infections from person to person. The susceptibility of all persons to the condition is not equal and all persons are not necessarily affected even if the condition is highly contagious as such. The vulnerability of the skin to the infection can be changed and altered using certain medications, like antibiotics, cortisone and oral contraceptives; these effectively change the normal acid balance of the surface of the skin, leaving it vulnerable to attack. The so-called hygiene sprays and perfumes can also bring about such an unfortunate condition. Not bathing enough or alternately bathing oneself too often can often bring about the condition, and thus extremes must be avoided.

Supplements and herbs

Fungal growth is effectively challenged by the Acidophilus supplement, which can improve the intestinal flora, boosting its ability to fend off fungal attacks. While certain natural yogurts contain Acidophilus cultures that can be used as supplements, the supplements in capsule form have more of the natural bacteria essential to the body. For overall health taking the B complex vitamins as supplements are also recommended. The bolstering of the nervous system is the way the B vitamins prove their efficiency in dealing with infection in the body, this is especially true with regard to a stubborn fungal infection, these B vitamins strengthen the immune system and relax nervous tension. Anti fungal properties are also found in the colloidal form of silver.

Given below are some herbal remedies that can help with fungal infections and jock itch.

Massage and rub chamomile, horsetail or sage infusions on the affected area to increase the rate of recovery and to promote healing. Anti fungal herbs that can be ingested include oils such as the olive oil and oregano oil and flax seed oil, the husks and powdered seeds of the psyllium herb, tea made from the taheebo herb, gentian, the common garlic and caprylic acid. Because of minimal side effects the anti fungal property of the leaf extract of the olive tree has become very popular and is considered to be very effective in dealing with fungal infections. The direct application of the tea tree oil onto the affected area is also effective as a treatment option, topical use can also be made of the gel of aloe vera herb and a cream made form the calendula herb.

What else you can do

Half a pint of apple cider vinegar in a quart of warm water can be used to wash the affected area. The circulation of air and the absorption of moisture is important and natural materials like cotton underwear and pants that are worn loosely allow moisture to leave and let air circulate, these natural fibers must be preferred as clothing material. Re- infection must be avoided by washing the underwear in hot water, underwear must be changed often. An effective disinfectant for topical application is whey concentrate, applied using a cotton ball on the area. This treatment can be repeated daily until lesions subside and once applied the application must be left overnight.

Usual dosage

• Vitamin B complex, 100 mg.
• Lactobacillus acidophilus, one tsp. or three capsules.
• Colloidal silver, one tsp.