Jock Itch

Jock Itch is a fungal infection that occurs on the skin of the inner thighs, genitals, and buttocks.  It is often a red rash that is itchy and ring-shaped in those moist areas on the body.  The name of this rash stems from people who sweat a lot, like athletes or, adversely, people who are overweight.  Jock Itch, while uncomfortable and itchy, is not very serious and can be treated naturally.  While it is most common for men to get this infection, women can get it too. 

• Try to avoid wearing clothing that irritates the affected area.  It can be beneficial to wear clothing that breathes and is not tight, including underwear, as this can irritate the rash.  Also, be sure to change your clothes, especially your underwear, daily to avoid making the rash worse.
• Apple cider vinegar is a great natural solution that can be ingested or applied directly on the skin.  If you mix 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar with 8oz of water and consume that twice a day, this can help to restore your body's pH balance, which is sometimes all that is needed to help Jock Itch.  For topical use, mix equal parts apple cider vinegar and distilled water and spray this on the affected area several times a day.  You can also refrigerate this solution before spraying it on if you want a cooling effect. 
• An oatmeal bath can help reduce skin irritation because it helps moisturize the skin.  Mix one cup of blended oats in a lukewarm bath and soak in it for 15-20 minutes every day until symptoms decrease.  You can also add Epsom salt or 20 drops of essential oil of lavender to the warm water. 
• Because onion has antifungal, antibiotic, and anti-inflammatory properties, it can help kill the fungus that causes Jock Itch.  Grind an onion into a paste and apply it to the affected area.  Leave the paste on for about 30 minutes and then wash the area with lukewarm water.  Pat dry with a clean towel and repeat this process twice daily.  It is important to not use the towel on any other part of your body as this can spread the rash.  Use clean towels to dry the area, no matter what cleaning method you decide to use. 
• Since coconut oil is an incredible moisturizer and has antimicrobial properties, it can help reduce the symptoms of Jock Itch if applied to the affected area(s).  For best results, gently apply warm coconut oil nightly before bed, as this softens the skin.  Symptoms may take a few days to reduce.  You can also add 4 drops of tea tree oil to an ounce of coconut oil and apply this solution twice daily.
• Because aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties, it is commonly used to reduce the symptoms of Jock Itch. Applying the aloe vera to the affected area(s) helps to restore your skin's pH balance and relieve itching and irritation.  Like coconut oil, aloe vera also has moisturizing and antimicrobial properties. 
• Make sure you stay hydrated.  Drinking alkaline water can be beneficial as it helps restore the body's natural pH balance.  The suggested amount of water to drink is eight 8oz glasses per day. 
• Avoid eating processed food, meat, dairy products, salt, sugar, and genetically modified foods and commit to eating raw fruits and vegetables.  Many raw fruits and vegetables are anti-inflammatory and can help reduce the inflammation of Jock Itch.