Naturopathic Cures for Jock Itch

Jock itch is a form of candida that can be embarrassing and bothersome. It occurs when there is too much sweat and moisture around the crotch area, and bacteria is allowed to multiply within the yeasty environment created. Named for the athletes which it most often affects, due to jock straps and sweating, you can help to cure jock itch by using naturopathic remedies to get rid of the yeast and bacteria to give skin a chance to heal and breathe.

Garlic

Garlic is a natural anti-fungal that is successful in treating yeast infections, candida and more importantly, jock itch. You can create a cooling compress using garlic and olive oil to help kill the bacteria that is causing jock itch. Combine two cloves of garlic with a cup of olive oil, taking care to smash the garlic so that the natural oils can escape. Leave it in the fridge to cool, and then dip a paper towel in the mixture, applying to the affected areas for 20 minute increments to kill the bacteria and clear up the jock itch.

Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil is another effective and natural way to kill the bacteria that is causing your jock itch. You can find tea tree oil in most health food and whole food stores, most likely by the skin care section. To use it to treat jock itch, just douse a cotton ball with the tea tree oil, and swab the area to cleanse daily. This will also have a cooling effect on hot, itchy areas.

Cornstarch

The reason your jock itch doesn't get any better is because every time you get dressed or use a jock strap, you are creating a warm and moist environment where bacteria can develop, only making the condition worse. Keep the area dry by sprinkling cornstarch onto the affected area to help sop up excess moisture. The less moisture you have, the faster your jock itch will heal.

Salt Bath

A salt bath can be soothing to your jock itch, but the salt also helps kill bacteria and keep the area cleansed and dry so that it can heal faster. Fill a shallow bath with warm water, and then add a cup of salt. Rest in the bath for at least 20 minutes. You can also make a cool bath if your jock itch feels hot.

Mouthwash

While it may sound painful at first, mouthwash's two ingredients are menthol and thymol. These two ingredients are a one-two punch that attack the bacteria causing jock itch, as well as cooling and soothing the affected area. You may find that the mouthwash stings at first, but swabbing the area daily with a cotton ball dipped in mouthwash can help it to heal faster, and the cooling sensation is well worth the initial sting.