Fungus prefers to grow in warm and moist regions of the body. Areas covered by clothing where you perspire frequently are prime spots. Tinea cruris is a fungal infection of the groin, buttocks or genitals, according to the Mayo Clinic. Other names for this fungal infection are ringworm or jock itch. These infections often target athletes because they perspire more and because the fungus can spread from contaminated athletic equipment. The most common symptom is a rash that is red, itchy and sometimes painful. Tea tree oil has antifungal properties, according to the Drugs website. Consult with your doctor to determine if this oil is an appropriate treatment for your infection.
Step 1
Mix 1 tsp. of tea tree oil with 10 tsps. of olive or almond oil. This will create a 10 percent tea tree oil blend that is safe for delicate skin while still being effective on the fungus.
Step 2
Wash the infected area with mild soap. Pat your skin dry with a towel to avoid irritating the skin around the rash.
Step 3
Dry your skin thoroughly with a blow dryer on the cool setting.
Step 4
Apply the tea tree oil blend to your rash and surrounding skin. Apply the oil to uninfected skin if it touches the rash, for example in a fold of skin.
Step 5
Use the oil blend twice daily. Continue to apply the oil for two weeks after the rash disappears to ensure the infection will not come back.
Step 6
Wash body towels, underwear and workout clothes in hot water with three or four drops of tea tree oil to kill any remaining fungus and prevent re-infection.
Tips and Warnings
- Keep your almond oil, tea tree oil blend refrigerated. Discard the oil after three weeks.
- Discontinue using the tea tree oil if the rash gets worse, as this may be an allergic reaction to the oil. If the Tinea cruris infection does not respond to the tea tree oil, consult with your doctor. You may need a prescription strength medication, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Things You'll Need
- 1 tsp. tea tree oil
- 10 tsp. almond or olive oil
- Amber dropper bottle
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