5 Ways to Treat Jock Itch Naturally

1. Keep the Area Dry

Jock itch is a fungal infection in the groin area. Other names for it include tinea cruris or ringworm of the groin. Since the groin area is often damp, especially in athletes, it's a perfect place for the fungus to grow. Prevent jock itch by keeping the area dry. Wear cotton underwear and clothes and change them daily. Avoid wearing tight clothes if possible. Dry yourself thoroughly after showers or baths and change your towels after each shower. Use a blow dryer on a cool setting to keep the groin area dry. A powder such as talc or baby powder applied to the area can also help.

2. Consider Using Garlic

Garlic is a natural antibiotic and antiviral. It also may have anti-fungal properties. Some experts recommend simply increasing your oral garlic intake by eating more foods seasoned with garlic. You can also take garlic capsules with each meal or simply eat raw garlic. Mash garlic and create a paste to spread onto the jock itch area. Speak to your care provider for more information about using garlic to treat jock itch.

3. Try Aromatherapy Products

Aromatherapy oils, such as peppermint, oregano or lavender, made into a poultice may effectively treat jock itch. Tea tree oil, cedar wood and jasmine oils diluted with a carrier oil is also an effective treatment to relieve itching and clear up the jock itch.

4. Change Your Diet

Foods high in sugars and carbohydrates encourage fungus to grow. If you frequently eat these products, change your diet to include more whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Alcohol, especially beer, can also cause yeast to grow. Reduce your alcohol intake if you get jock itch.

5. Prevent Jock Itch from Spreading

Since jock itch is a fungus, it often spreads quickly. One of the best treatments is prevention. Make sure you don't use towels repeatedly, and wash them in hot water after every use. Bathe or shower after a workout and dry the area thoroughly using a towel or a blow dryer. Change your underwear daily and after working out, and consider sleeping in a nightshirt or in the nude. Change your sheets nightly.