What causes jock itch?
Jock itch, medically known as tinea cruris, is a common fungal infection that affects the groin, inner thighs, buttocks, and lower abdomen. The culprits are dermatophytes, a group of fungi that thrive in warm, moist environments, making the groin area especially vulnerable. Jock itch is very contagious and can be picked up from contaminated surfaces or transferred from other parts of your own body, especially if you scratch an infected area and then touch your groin.
What are the symptoms?
Jock itch usually presents as:
- A raised, red rash.
- Persistent itching, burning, or irritation in the groin, inner thighs, or buttocks.
- Flaky, cracked, or scaly skin.
- Sometimes, the rash may blister or ooze, and the skin can become abnormally dark or light in patches.
The discomfort can range from mild to intense, and scratching can make things worse by spreading the infection or leading to secondary bacterial infections.
Why does it happen?
Jock itch happens when the natural balance of microorganisms on your skin is disrupted, allowing dermatophyte fungi to multiply unchecked. Several factors contribute to this imbalance:
- Warmth and moisture: The groin area is naturally warm and often moist, especially after exercise or in hot weather, creating the perfect environment for fungi to thrive.
- Friction: Tight clothing and skin folds increase friction and sweating, further encouraging fungal growth.
- Spread from athlete’s foot: If you have athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), the fungus can easily be transferred to your groin, often by pulling up underwear or trousers over infected feet. Both conditions must be treated at the same time to prevent reinfection.
- Diet and microbiome: Diets high in sugar and processed foods can weaken your body’s defences. Excess sugar feeds fungal organisms like Candida, and a diet lacking in fibre and nutrients disrupts the gut and skin microbiome, reducing your natural resistance to fungal infections. A weakened microbiome makes it easier for opportunistic fungi to take hold.
- Underlying health conditions: Obesity, diabetes, a weakened immune system, and some chronic conditions can increase your risk by altering your skin’s natural defences and increasing moisture in skin folds.
How to treat jock itch
The good news is that jock itch is usually straightforward to treat, especially when caught early. Here’s what you can do:
- Keep the area clean and dry: Wash the affected area gently with mild soap and water, and dry thoroughly. Use a separate towel for the infected area and launder towels and clothing regularly.
- Wear loose, breathable clothing: Opt for cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothes to reduce friction and moisture buildup.
- Treat both jock itch and athlete’s foot: If you have athlete’s foot, treat it simultaneously to prevent the fungus from spreading back and forth.
- Avoid scratching: Scratching can worsen irritation, spread the infection, and introduce bacteria, leading to further complications.
- Support your microbiome: A balanced diet rich in vegetables, fibre, and fermented foods can help restore your gut and skin microbiome, supporting your body’s natural defences against fungal overgrowth.
Natural products for jock itch
Nature offers gentle yet effective options for supporting your body’s healing process:
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A.Vogel Molkosan is high in naturally occurring L+ lactic acid, which is ‘food’ for your good bacteria.
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Meluca Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is renowned for its antifungal properties and will relieve itching and irritation caused by jock itch. Add 2 – 10 drops of Meluca to 20 mL of water and apply 1 – 3 times daily. Meluca should also be used to treat athlete’s foot and nail infections as these conditions can spread the fungus that causes jock itch. Apply 1 drop of tea tree oil to the affected area 1 – 3 times daily. |
Natural remedies can be very effective, but persistent or severe fungal infections require medical attention and prescription-strength antifungals. Always patch test new products and discontinue use if irritation occurs.
An itch-free future starts here
With the right knowledge and a few simple changes, you can beat jock itch and reclaim your comfort and confidence. This is a common and treatable condition. Supporting your body inside and out will enable you to heal and prevent future infections. Trust in nature’s wisdom, and let your journey to living naturally, living well, begin today.
References and additional reading:
- Jawhara, S. (2023) Healthy diet and lifestyle improve the gut microbiota and help combat fungal infection, Microorganisms. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10302699/
- Jock itch (2025) Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/jock-itch/symptoms-causes/syc-20353807
- Jock itch (no date) Mount Sinai Health System. Available at: https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/diseases-conditions/jock-itch
- Jock itch: Symptoms, causes, treatment: Skin health: Canesten (no date) Canesten UK. Available at: https://www.canesten.co.uk/skin-and-foot-health/jock-itch
- Jock itch: Treatments and symptoms (with pictures) (no date) GoodRx. Available at: https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/fungal-infection/jock-itch-tinea-cruris-prevention
- Jock itch: What it is, symptoms & treatment (2025) Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22141-jock-itch-tinea-cruris