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Introduction
Skin (Tvaka) is the largest organ of the human which acts as the outer barrier of the body. A wide range of conditions affect the skin (Tvaka), and Tinea infection is one of them. Tinea infection is among the most common skin infections (Tvaka Vikara) worldwide. It is a fungal infection which is of various types and Jock itch i.e. Tinea cruris is one of them.
Jock itch is a unilateral or bilateral condition with raised active red border which affects the perineal, groin, and perianal region. As per classical Ayurvedic texts, all skin problems are mentioned under Kustha Roga. There are 18 types of Kustha Vikara (7 Maha Kustha and 11 Kshudra Kustha) as per Acharaya Charaka, the father of medicine and Jock itch is correlated with Mandala Kustha. However, some of the researchers correlated all types of Tinea infection with Dadru Kustha (type of Kshudra Kustha). The main culprit behind the Jock itch is the moist and warm environment.
As per Ayurveda Shodhana and Shamana Chikitsa of various types are considered best to treat jock itch which includes the use of emetic therapy (Vamana), purgative therapy (Virechana), use of decoction (Kashaya), oils (Taila), Tablets (Gutika), etc.
Ayurvedic Line of Treatment for Jock Itch
Ayurvedic treatment for jock itch includes avoiding causative factors (Nidana Parivarjana), detoxification (Shodhana Chikitsa), symptom relieving remedies (Shamana Chikitsa), dietary changes (Pathya and Apathya), Rasayana rejuvenation, and Yoga for overall health.
What Should Be Avoided for Treating and Preventing the Recurrence of Jock Itch?
Dietetic Factors
Excessive use of sour, salty, alkali, heavy, and oily food should be avoided. Excessive use of Milk (Ksheer), curd
(Dadhi), buttermilk (Takra), excessive use of pulses like Masha and Kulattha, excessive intake of fish, intake of incompatible food, fermented food, improper food patterns, excessive alcohol consumption, psychological discomfort during mealtime, excessive meal intake, intake of food before digestion of the previous meal.
Daily Regime Factors (Viharaja Nidana)
Excessive sweating due to exercise, running, etc., use of warm blankets, excessive exposure to sun, exposure to excessive heat and humidity in summer, sexual indulgence after intake of heavy meal (Guru Bhojan), sexual indulgence in indigestion condition, suppression of urges such as vomiting, urine, stool, and day- sleeping, should be avoided.
Detoxification Therapy for Jock Itch
Detoxification therapy / purification therapy is also known as Panchakarma Therapy or Shodhana Therapy in which the elimination of the toxins (Ama) from the body is done through various procedures and the imbalance of Tridosha is removed which is the causative factor for different disorders. In Jock itch, Shodhana Therapy is recommended because as per Ayurveda all skin disorders are due to an imbalance of Tridosha i.e. Vata, Pitta, Kapha.
As Jock itch is correlated with Mandala Kustha, which is Kapha prominent, so emetic therapy (Vamana Karma) is considered best for jock itch.
Vamana Therapy
After assessing the abdomen and Dosha in a patient, emetic therapy is planned. Pre-treatment (Purva Karma) is done first in which Deepana-Pachana Dravya (Digestives), oleation, and sudation therapy are given to the patient.
Pre-Treatment
Deepana-Pachana Dravya – The Deepana, Pachana formulation like Chitrakadi Vati, Panchakola Churna, and Trikatu Churna with warm water before a meal (approximately 30 minutes before) is given for 3 days to the patient.
Oleation Therapy (Snehana Karma) – Oleation therapy is done as per the Dosha dominance. Panchatikta Ghrita and Maha Panch Tikta Ghrita, etc are used in patients for internal Snehana of the body. The intake of Ghrita is done for a maximum of 7 days and during this period a patient is observed for Samayaka Siddhi Lakshana.
Massage Therapy (Abhyanga) – Massage therapy is done by using various oils like Marichadi oil, Nalpamaradi Kerala Thailam, etc.
Sudation Therapy (Swedana) – After that Sudation therapy is given to the patient by use of Nadi Sweda in which various Kwatha like Dashamula Kwatha, etc can be used.
Main Treatment
In the main treatment that is Vamana therapy or emetic therapy different Vamnopaga Dravya like Ikshu rasa, Yashtimadhu Phanta can be used and Vamana Dravya Madanphala is used. Vamana Vega and Lakshana should be noticed like lightness in the body and head, etc.
Post-Treatment
After the completion of the main treatment of Vamana, Samsarjana Krama, i.e. special diet is given to the patient, and along with this fumigation therapy is done.
Ayurvedic Remedies for Jock Itch that Can be Used Internally or Externally
After completion of Detoxification / purification therapy or some time without purification therapy, palliative therapy in which anti-fungal treatment is started in the patient of the jock itch in which various herbal remedies like tablets, herbo-mineral formulations, oils, etc. are used. So, first, let’s explore the top herbs that can be used to naturally treat fungal infections like jock itch.
Top Single Herbs that Can be Used to Treat Jock Itch Naturally
- Nimba botanically known as Azadirachta indica, is very effective in skin disorders and especially in tinea diseases. Nimba contains active ingredients like nimbin, nimbinin, nimbidin, quercetin, beta-sitosterol, etc which show various pharmacological properties like anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial activity, etc which help in pacifying various skin disorders.
- As per Ayurvedic classical texts, Nimba has Sheeta Virya, Grahi, and Laghu properties (Guna). Nimba exhibits Krimighna, Kledaghana, and Kapha Pittahara properties due to which Nimba is very beneficial in treating Jock itch.
- In 1966, a clinical study was done by Ojha on Nimba which shows the promising result of the use of Nimba Lepa (paste) with buttermilk (Takra) on skin disorders like jock itch.
- Recent research has shown that the use of Nimba Taila with Karpoor externally shows significant results in various skin disorders including jock itch. (Reference – Prajapati, Vishal. (2024). Role of Gandhaka Rasayana along with Karpoor mixed Nimba tail in the treatment of Dadru – Case Report.)
- AF-7 oil and AF-7 tablet also consist of Neem which makes it a powerful formulation to cure skin disorders like Jock itch.
- Musta known as Cyperus rotundus is a bitter and astringent taste drug with cold potency as per Ayurvedic classical texts due to cold potency, it acts as Rakta Prasadaka and also it exhibits Kledaghana properties which make it an ideal choice to use in Jock itch. In Ayurvedic classical texts, it is mentioned as Tvaka Dosha Hara Dravya.
- Recent studies revealed that Mustaka consists of active ingredients like Cyperol, Isocyperol, retinol, Copaene, Iso- kobusone, etc due to which it exhibits anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory properties which help in curing the skin disorder Jock itch.
- The rhizome of Mustaka pounded with Cow Ghee (clarified butter) can be applied as Lepa (paste) on the affected area.
- Chakramarda’s famous name Dadrughana is also a drug of choice to treat jock itch. It is known as Cassia tora and possesses Ruksha and Laghu properties. It has hot potency, and it exhibits Kledaghana, Kandughana, and Krimihar properties which make it effective in treating jock itch.
- In Unani literature, Chakramard is mentioned as Mussafi-e-Khoon (blood purifier) and is considered ideal for treating various skin disorders including jock itch.
- The leaf extract of the Chakramard exhibits anti-fungal activity. Along with this Chakramard also shows anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties due to which it is used to treat jock itch condition. (Reference- Khare CP. Indian medicinal plants. New Delhi: Springer (India) Private Limited; 2007: 130, Mukherjee PK, Saha K, Saha BP, Pal M, Das J. Antifungal Activities of the Leaf Extract of Cassia tora Linn. (Fam. Leguminosae). Phytotherapy Research 1996 Feb; 10 (6): 521- 522. Sharma S, Dangi MS, Wadhwa S, Daniel V, Tiwari A. Antibacterial Activity of Cassia tora Leaves. International Journal of Pharmaceutical & Biological Archives 2010; 1 (1): 84 – 86.)
- A paste of root Chakramarda with Lime Juice (Nimbuka Swarasa) is an excellent choice to treat Jock itch. (Reference-Anonymous. The Wealth of India. Vol. ІІІ: Ca- Ci. New Delhi: CSIR; 1992: 368- 370. Ghani N. Khazain al-adviya. New Delhi: Idara Kitab- us- Shifa; YNM: 474- 5. 19. Nadkarni KM. Indian plants and drugs. New Delhi: Srishti Book Distributors: 2005: 96- 7.)
- As per Ayurvedic classical texts Khadir is considered best for treating skin disorders. Khadir, botanically known as Acacia catechu has Tikta (bitter) and Kashaya (astringent) taste and exhibits Kapha-Pitta Ghana properties, Kledahara, and Kanduhara properties which makes it the perfect choice to treat Jock itch.
- Recent research revealed that Khadir consists of Catechin, quercetin, acacatechin, etc. due to which it exhibits anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and antioxidant activity, etc. which makes it the best drug for treating skin disorders.
- The decoction of khadira should be used as a drink, sprinkling, tub-bath, etc. in Jock itch condition. (Reference – Sushruta Samhita Chikitsa Sthana. 9/ 5)
- Vidanga botanically known as Embelia ribes, is the best Krimighna Dravya as per Acharaya Charaka father of medicine with a pungent taste and hot potency. Due to its Kledashoshana and Kapha Nashaka properties, it is very helpful in treating fungal conditions.
- Vidanga consists of the active ingredient Embelin which exhibits antifungal, anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties, etc making it the drug of choice in various Tinea conditions. (Reference – Shahraf Naaz, Sarswati Bharati, Raman Ranjan, Ganesh Prasad Gupta, Therapeutic use of Vidanga on Krimi Roga – A Literary Review. J Ayu Int Med Sci. 2022; 7 (11): 169- 174.)
- Curcuma longa Linn. famous by the name Haldi or Haridra is very beneficial in skin disorders. Haridra consists of curcumin, turmerone, dihydro curcumin, Camphor, Procurcumadiol, procurcumenol, etc due to which it exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, activities, etc thus used to treat skin disorders like Jock itch.
- Haridra mixed with jaggery should be taken with cow urine. (Vrinda Madhava. 42. 14, Bhavaprakasha Chikitsa Sthana. 45. 14). This helps to treat jock itch effectively.
- Go Mutra (Cow’s urine) 80 ml. mixed with paste of Haridra should be taken. (Vrinda Madhava. 51. 41). This will help in treating jock itch.
Herbal Remedies to Treat Jock Itch Naturally
AF-7 Tablet and AF-7 Oil by IAFA® help in fighting against fungal and bacterial infections that lead to different skin complications. These herbal remedies by IAFA® are composed of the goodness of 18 skin-friendly herbs like Cassia Fistula, Azadirachta indica, Symplocos Racemosa, Prunus Cerasoides, Commiphora Mukul, etc. that are research proved and help to treat Jock Itch naturally.
Dietary and Lifestyle Changes to Treat Jock Itch Fast and Naturally (Pathya and Apathya)
What to Follow in Jock Itch (Pathya)?
- Laghu Anna (Light food) should be taken.
- Tikta Shaka, i.e. bitter greens should be included in the diet.
- Split chickpeas and a combination of three fruits Amalaki, Bibhitaki, and Haritaki (Triphala) should be taken in diet.
- Nimbayukta Anna i.e. Rice mixed with leaves of Nimba, and ghee (Clarified butter) should be included in the diet.
- Wild animal meat (Jangala Mansa) should be taken and Moong beans (Mudga) and pointed gourd (Patola) are healthy for jock itch.
- For drinking, bathing, and sprinkling (Pana, Snana, parisheka) consumption of Khadira Kashaya is mentioned in Ayurveda to treat skin disorders like jock itch.
- Parisheka, Avaghana should be done in patient.
What Should be Avoided During Jock Itch (Apathya)?
- Milk and milk products like curd should be avoided i.e. Dugdha and Dadhi.
- Horse gram i.e. Kulattha and black gram i.e. Masha should not be included in the diet.
- Meat, fat, oil, and rice puddings i.e. Payas should be avoided.
- The person with jock itch should avoid overeating (Adhyashana), Virrudha Ahara (incompatible food) intake.
- Sugar cane, fish, sesame, and sour fruits should also be avoided.
- Day sleeping, excessive indulgence in sexual activity, and Vegadharana (suppression of urges) should be avoided.
Rejuvenation Therapy (Rasayana Therapy) for Treating Jock Itch
Rasyana plays an important role in treating various skin disorders.
Reference – Kaur M, Chandola HM. Role of rasayana in cure and prevention of recurrence of vicharchika (eczema). Ayu. 2010 Jan; 31 (1): 33- 9. doi: 10. 4103/ 0974- 8520. 68207. PMID: 22131682; PMCID: PMC3215319.
In jock itch diseases after proper Shodhana (purification) therapy, rejuvenation therapy should be given to the patient. These various rejuvenated herbs and their combination can be used like Triphala (Hraitaki, Bibhitaki, Amalaki), Guduchi, Chayawanprasha, Guduchi-Bhringraj Rasayana, etc.
Yoga and Pranayama for Treating Jock Itch and Its Recurrence
Yoga asana and Pranayama play important roles in treating various skin disorders. Yogasana, Pranayama helps in reducing stress, improving blood circulation, and helping in detoxification of the body.
Various Yogasana that can be done by patients with skin disorders like jock itch are Trikonasana (Triangle pose), Bhujangasana (Cobra pose), Sarvanga Asana (Shoulder stand pose), Hala Asana (Plow pose), Shirisha Asana (Headstand), Paschimottanasana (Seated forward bend pose), etc.
Various Pranayama that can be done by patients with fungal skin disorders like jock itch are Sheetali Pranayama, Sheetkari pranayama, Bhastrika Pranayama, Bhramari pranayama, Nadi shodhana Pranayama, etc. Along with this Shodhana Karma – Kapalbhati Shodhana Karma is very beneficial in skin disorders.
Conclusion
Jock itch and other skin disorders require a personalized approach to treatment, as they often stem from imbalances of Tridosha within the body. Ayurveda plays a vital role in addressing skin allergies, infections, and disorders by focusing on balancing the doshas, detoxifying the body (Shodhana), and promoting overall skin health through the use of various herbs, formulations, and lifestyle modifications. For comprehensive guidance and expert advice on managing skin allergies through Ayurveda, consult Dr. Sahil Gupta, a specialist in Ayurveda and allergy management at IAFA Ayurveda®.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What Kills Jock Itch Fast?
The fastest way to eliminate jock itch is to use anti-fungal. As ayurveda focuses on the root cause (Moola) of diseases. The Purification therapy followed by the use of herbal formulations containing herbs with anti-fungal properties, and lifestyle management (Pathya, Apathya, Asana, Pranayama, etc) detoxifies the body, strengthens the body and gives quick relief and long-term prevention from jock itch.
How Long Does Jock Itch Take to Go Away?
The duration of the jock itch to go away depends upon the severity of the condition and Purusham Purusham Vikshyam i.e. individual’s Tridosha imbalance. In mild cases with consistent Ayurvedic treatment along with dietary and lifestyle changes improvement will be shown within 1- 2 weeks while in severe cases it may take 3- 4 weeks for complete relief.
Does Ayurvedic Treatment Provide Permanent Relief from Jock Itch?
Yes, Ayurvedic treatment works on the root cause of diseases. It can help to prevent recurrence and provide long-term relief in jock itch.
Can Ayurvedic Treatment of Jock Itch Work Faster than Modern Antifungal Medications?
Ayurvedic treatment for jock itch may take a slightly longer time as compared to modern anti-fungal medication as they work holistically but provide a long-term natural, sustainable solution without side effects.
What Factors Can Delay the Healing Process in the Jock Itch?
Moisture (Kleda), a diet that aggravates Kapha and Pitta i.e. oily and spicy foods, poor hygiene can delay the healing process.
Should I Consult an Ayurvedic Expert for Jock Itch?
If the condition of the individual is very severe or persistent or if patients need a personalized treatment plan, including lifestyle modification and dietary plans, etc. then consult an Ayurvedic practitioner. For comprehensive guidance and expert advice on managing skin allergies through Ayurveda, consult Dr. Sahil Gupta, a specialist in Ayurveda and allergy management at IAFA Ayurveda®.
