Jock itch also known as tinea cruis, is a fungal infection that causes a red, itchy rash on the area where the top of your legs meet your trunk. Trichophyton rubrum is the fungus responsible for causing the infection. Jock itch occurs more often in males than in females; this condition causes extreme discomfort and is seen in people who have a tendency to sweat a lot.

Symptoms: A moist, itchy patch of reddened infection on the surface of the groin.

Causes:

• The main cause of jock itch is considered to be unhygienic conditions. Bacteria usually breed in moist unclean conditions.
• Jock itch may also occur if you wear tight clothes. When you wear tight clothes, the skin may rub against the fabric and hence damage it making it susceptible to fungal infection.
• Jock itch may also be transmitted from a person already suffering from it.
• Obesity is also believed to be one of the main causes of jock itch.

Natural Remedies:

• Eat a nourishing diet of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. While treating the infection, a diet primarily of raw food is best.
• Garlic. Blend two cloves of garlic with one cup of olive oil. Dip three to four paper towels into the mixture and make a compress. Apply the compress to the affected area.

• Soak in a hot bath that has been sprinkled with a generous amount of salt. You should soak for at least 15 minutes to allow the salt water to dry up the infected area.
• Apply cornstarch or baby powder twice a day to the affected area for up to 2 weeks.
• Goldenseal when used as a drink or applied topically can help destroys fungi. Use goldenseal only for a week; then switch for a time to another fungicide herb.
• Pau d' arco has strong antifungal properties. Drink 3 cups daily.
• Tea tree oil is an effective herbal remedy for jock itch. Apply two to three drops on the infected area at least four times in day. You can apply it either full strength or diluted with a little distilled water or cold-pressed oil.
• Oregon oil is a powerful anti-fungicide; even the most resistant forms of fungus infection can generally be eliminated by it.

Prevention:

• You should always bathe daily, especially if you sweat a lot during the day.
• Expose the affected area to air as much as possible.
• Wear loose fitting, cotton clothing, as tight clothing can make those areas prone to jock itch sweat.
• Keep your groin area dry to prevent jock itch. You can even use a powder after showering to make sure the area stays as dry as possible.
• You should change your underwear at least twice a day.
• If you are prone to getting frequent jock itch, you should lay off the alcohol. The yeast in the alcohol will accelerate the process of getting jock itch.