By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 19, 2024
10 Best Herbal Creams For Jock Itch
Herbal creams for jock itch are topical treatments that combine natural herbs with moisturizing properties to help soothe and heal fungal infections.
They work by reducing inflammation, fighting fungal growth, and promoting a healthy skin environment. Examples of herbal creams include those containing tea tree oil, aloe vera, and neem, which have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
These creams improve lives by providing relief from itching, redness, and discomfort, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities with confidence and comfort.
The following article describes in detail the most important creams for jock itch, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Melaleuca alternifolia
- 2. Aloe vera
- 3. Echinacea purpurea
- 4. Calendula officinalis
- 5. Sesamum indicum
- 6. Matricaria chamomilla
- 7. Gaultheria procumbens
- 8. Hamamelis virginiana
- 9. Allium cepa
- 10. Cymbopogon citratus
- What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for jock itch?
- What ailments similar to jock itch are treated with herbal creams?
1. Melaleuca alternifolia
Melaleuca alternifolia, also known as tea tree, creams helps with jock itch because of its potent antifungal properties.
The active compound, cineole, in tea tree oil has been shown to effectively combat fungal infections, including those that cause jock itch. Tea tree cream creates an environment that is not conducive to fungal growth, thereby promoting healing and reducing the severity of symptoms such as itching, redness, and irritation.
This natural remedy offers a safe and effective solution for alleviating jock itch symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Melaleuca alternifolia creams that help with jock itch.
- Cineole: This compound helps to reduce inflammation and soothe the skin, making it less susceptible to fungal infections that cause jock itch.
- Cymene: This terpene has antimicrobial properties, which help to eliminate fungal spores and bacteria that cause jock itch, promoting a healthy skin environment.
- Linalool: This terpene has antifungal and antiseptic properties, helping to combat the fungus Trichophyton, a common cause of jock itch, and reduce the risk of infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea tree used to make creams for jock itch.
- Leaves: Melaleuca alternifolia leaves are used due to their high content of tea tree oil, which has antifungal properties that help combat fungal infections like jock itch.
- Buds: Melaleuca alternifolia buds are used for their high concentration of tea tree oil, which provides antiseptic and antifungal properties to soothe and heal jock itch affected areas.
- Stems: Melaleuca alternifolia stems are used for their tea tree oil, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness and itching associated with jock itch.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea tree for jock itch.
- Weigh 250 grams of unrefined shea butter and 100 grams of beeswax into a heat-proof mixing bowl.
- Melt the shea butter and beeswax in a double boiler over low heat for about 10 minutes.
- Add 25 grams of melaleuca alternifolia essential oil to the melted mixture and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and let it cool and solidify at room temperature.
- Once solid, whip the cream with a hand mixer for about 5 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy.
2. Aloe vera
Aloe vera, also known as aloe, creams helps with jock itch because of its soothing and antifungal properties.
The gel extracted from the plant has anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce redness and itching caused by the fungal infection. Aloe vera also has antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of fungi, promoting a healthy environment for skin recovery.
Regular application of aloe vera creams can help alleviate symptoms of jock itch, such as itching, burning, and cracking, and can aid in faster recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Aloe vera creams that help with jock itch.
- Aloe-emodin: This anthraquinone compound has anti-fungal properties that inhibit the growth of fungi responsible for jock itch, such as Trichophyton rubrum.
- Bradykinin: A peptide found in Aloe vera, bradykinin has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness, itching, and swelling associated with jock itch.
- Catechins: These polyphenolic compounds, particularly epicatechin and epigallocatechin, have antifungal and anti-inflammatory effects that help combat jock itch infections and alleviate symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of aloe used to make creams for jock itch.
- Leaves: They are used due to their high content of aloe vera gel, which provides soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Gel extracted from leaves: More specifically, the clear jelly extracted from aloe vera leaves, often referred to as aloe vera gel, is commonly used to treat jock itch due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
- Aloe vera sap (extracted from the leaves): The sap, also known as aloe vera juice, is used in creams for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, which help to soothe and heal the affected area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic aloe for jock itch.
- Harvest 10-15 aloe vera leaves from mature plants and cut them from the base to ensure a steady supply.
- Extract the gel from the aloe vera leaves using a spoon to scoop out the clear inner pulp.
- Mix the aloe vera gel with 1/2 cup of distilled water and 2 tablespoons of vegetable glycerin in a bowl.
- Add 2 teaspoons of beeswax and 1 teaspoon of vitamin e oil to the mixture and heat it gently.
- Whip the mixture until it thickens and forms a smooth, creamy texture using an electric mixer.
3. Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea purpurea, also known as purple coneflower, creams helps with jock itch because of its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
The cream's active compounds, such as alkylamides and polyphenols, help to combat fungal infections like jock itch, caused by Trichophyton and other pathogens.
By reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy immune response, Echinacea purpurea creams can help to alleviate symptoms like itching, redness, and discomfort associated with jock itch, providing relief and promoting faster healing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea creams that help with jock itch.
- Iridoid glycosides: These compounds help to reduce inflammation and fight fungal infections, which are key factors in the development and persistence of jock itch.
- Flavonoids: As potent antioxidants, flavonoids help to inhibit the growth of fungi and reduce oxidative stress, thereby alleviating symptoms of jock itch.
- Triterpene glycosides: These compounds exhibit immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to boost the body's immune response and reduce the severity of jock itch symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make creams for jock itch.
- Roots: Roots are used because they contain a high concentration of echinacosides, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe skin irritations.
- Leaves: Leaves are used because they contain compounds like caffeic acid and chicoric acid, which have antimicrobial properties that help combat fungal infections.
- Roots (again, as it's the most used part): Roots are also used because they contain a high concentration of polysaccharides, which stimulate the immune system and help speed up the healing process.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for jock itch.
- Harvest 1-2 cups of fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested material in a low-temperature oven at 150°f for 2 hours or air-dry for 7-10 days.
- Steep 1/2 cup of dried echinacea purpurea in 2 cups of carrier oil such as coconut or sweet almond oil for 2 weeks.
- Strain the infused oil and mix it with 1 tablespoon of beeswax and 2 tablespoons of shea butter to create a base.
- Heat the base mixture in a double boiler until it reaches 180°f and then pour it into glass jars to cool and solidify.
4. Calendula officinalis
Calendula officinalis, also known as pot marigold, creams helps with jock itch because it possesses anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help soothe and calm the affected area.
The cream's ability to reduce redness and swelling makes it an effective treatment for jock itch caused by fungal infections such as ringworm and athlete's foot. Additionally, its antimicrobial properties help prevent the spread of the infection, promoting faster healing and relief from discomfort.
This natural remedy provides a safe and gentle solution for those suffering from jock itch.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Calendula officinalis creams that help with jock itch.
- Triterpenoids: These compounds help with jock itch by exhibiting antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce fungal growth and soothe irritated skin.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids in Calendula officinalis creams have antifungal and antioxidant properties, which can help combat fungal infections and promote wound healing in the affected area.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids in Calendula officinalis creams have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can reduce inflammation, soothe irritated skin, and promote wound healing, ultimately helping to alleviate jock itch symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of pot marigold used to make creams for jock itch.
- Flowers: They are used due to their high content of triterpenoids and flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help soothe and heal skin irritations.
- Leaves: They contain similar compounds to the flowers and are used for their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help combat fungal infections like jock itch.
- Stems: They also contain triterpenoids and flavonoids, making them a useful addition to creams for their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic pot marigold for jock itch.
- Infuse 2 tablespoons of dried calendula flowers in 2 cups of boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Strain the infused liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean bowl to remove the solids.
- Combine 1/2 cup of beeswax, 1/2 cup of coconut oil, and 1/4 cup of shea butter in a double boiler.
- Add the infused liquid to the melted wax and oil mixture stirring constantly for 5 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a clean glass jar and let it cool and solidify for 30 minutes.
5. Sesamum indicum
Sesamum indicum, also known as sesame, creams helps with jock itch because of its antifungal properties, which effectively target and eliminate fungal infections that cause the condition.
The cream's active ingredients, including sesamin and sesamolin, have potent anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, reducing redness, itching, and discomfort associated with jock itch.
Regular application of Sesamum indicum creams can provide long-lasting relief and promote the healing of affected skin, making it an effective treatment option for those suffering from this common condition.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sesamum indicum creams that help with jock itch.
- Sesamin: It helps with jock itch by exhibiting antifungal properties, inhibiting the growth of fungi such as Trichophyton mentagrophytes, which causes the infection.
- Sesamolin: It contributes to the antifungal activity of Sesamum indicum creams by displaying strong inhibitory effects on various fungal species, including Candida albicans.
- Terpene: It has been shown to possess antifungal activity, preventing the spread of jock itch by reducing the growth and proliferation of pathogenic fungi.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of sesame used to make creams for jock itch.
- Seeds: Sesame seeds are often used in creams for jock itch due to their anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
- Leaves: Sesame leaves are used for their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help in soothing and treating jock itch.
- Roots: Sesame roots are used for their medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which aid in the treatment of jock itch.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic sesame for jock itch.
- Harvest 500 grams of dried sesamum indicum flowers and store them in an airtight container for later use.
- Mix 200 grams of sesamum indicum flowers with 400 milliliters of carrier oil such as sweet almond oil in a clean glass container.
- Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool dark place with occasional stirring every 3 days.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh to separate the oil from the solids.
- Add 50 grams of beeswax and 20 grams of vitamin e oil to the oil mixture and melt the beeswax in a double boiler.
6. Matricaria chamomilla
Matricaria chamomilla, also known as chamomile, creams helps with jock itch because it has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The soothing and calming effects of chamomile can help reduce redness, itching, and irritation associated with jock itch. The antifungal properties in chamomile creams can also target and eliminate fungal infections, such as those caused by Trichophyton and Epidermophyton, that often lead to jock itch.
This makes chamomile creams a natural and effective treatment option for individuals suffering from jock itch.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla creams that help with jock itch.
- Apolipophorin e: This flavonoid glycoside has antifungal properties, which can help inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens that cause jock itch.
- Apigenin: As a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antifungal activities, apigenin may help reduce the severity of jock itch symptoms by alleviating inflammation and preventing fungal overgrowth.
- Matricaria chamomilla flavonoids: These flavonoids possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe the affected skin, reduce inflammation, and protect against oxidative stress caused by fungal infections.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make creams for jock itch.
- Flowers: They are used to make creams for jock itch due to their anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
- Seeds: They are used to make creams for jock itch due to their antifungal and antioxidant properties.
- Leaves: They are used to make creams for jock itch due to their antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for jock itch.
- Gather 250 grams of dried chamomilla flowers, 100 grams of distilled water, and 50 grams of beeswax for preparation.
- Infuse the dried chamomilla flowers in the distilled water for 10 minutes at 100 degrees celsius.
- Strain the infused mixture and discard the solids then add 100 grams of sweet almond oil for emulsification.
- Mix the sweet almond oil and infused mixture with 50 grams of beeswax in a double boiler at 70 degrees celsius for 30 minutes.
- Allow the mixture to cool and thicken then transfer it to a clean container for storage.
7. Gaultheria procumbens
Gaultheria procumbens, also known as wintergreen, creams helps with jock itch because of its anti-fungal properties.
The herb contains methyl salicylate, which has been shown to inhibit the growth of fungi that cause jock itch. The cream also helps to soothe and calm the affected area, reducing inflammation and itching. Additionally, Gaultheria procumbens has astringent properties that help to dry out the affected area, preventing the fungus from spreading and promoting healing.
This makes it a popular natural remedy for jock itch.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Gaultheria procumbens creams that help with jock itch.
- Methyl salicylate: It helps reduce inflammation and relieve itching associated with jock itch by acting as a salicylate, a compound that inhibits the production of pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators.
- Tannins: These polyphenolic compounds help reduce inflammation, kill fungal pathogens, and soothe irritated skin, making them beneficial for treating jock itch.
- Gaultherin: Although less studied than other constituents, Gaultherin, a sesquiterpene lactone, has shown antifungal activity, which can help combat fungal infections causing jock itch.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of wintergreen used to make creams for jock itch.
- Leaves: Used to make creams for jock itch as they contain compounds with antifungal properties, which can help combat fungal infections.
- Roots: Used to make creams for jock itch as they contain salicin, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help soothe and reduce irritation.
- Barks: Used to make creams for jock itch as they contain compounds with antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent the growth of pathogens and reduce inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic wintergreen for jock itch.
- Harvest 1/2 cup of fresh gaultheria procumbens leaves and flowers on a sunny day with a clean knife.
- Steep the harvested gaultheria procumbens in 2 cups of boiling water for 10-15 minutes to create an infusion.
- Strain the infusion through a cheesecloth into a bowl and discard the solids to obtain a liquid extract.
- Mix 1/4 cup of beeswax and 1/4 cup of shea butter in a double boiler with gentle heat.
- Blend 2 tablespoons of the gaultheria procumbens infusion into the melted beeswax mixture with a hand mixer until smooth.
8. Hamamelis virginiana
Hamamelis virginiana, also known as American witch hazel, creams helps with jock itch because of its potent anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties.
The cream soothes and calms irritated skin, reducing itching and discomfort. The witch hazel's astringent properties help to reduce redness and inflammation, while its antifungal properties combat the fungal infections that cause jock itch. This natural remedy provides relief from the symptoms of jock itch, promoting healthy and balanced skin.
Regular application can help to clear up the infection and prevent future occurrences.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hamamelis virginiana creams that help with jock itch.
- Hamamelitannin: This tannin, a type of phenolic compound, has antimicrobial and astringent properties, which can help reduce fungal growth and soothe the affected skin area.
- Vasoprotectives: These compounds have vasoconstrictive and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce blood flow to the affected area and alleviate itching and redness associated with jock itch.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, which can help combat fungal infections and reduce oxidative stress in the skin, promoting healing and soothing the affected area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of american witch hazel used to make creams for jock itch.
- Barks: Hamamelis virginiana barks are often used to make creams for jock itch due to their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of Hamamelis virginiana are also used in creams for jock itch due to their astringent and antiseptic properties that help to reduce itching and inflammation.
- Roots: The roots of Hamamelis virginiana are used to make creams for jock itch due to their ability to soothe and calm irritated skin, reducing itching and inflammation.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic american witch hazel for jock itch.
- Gather 20 grams of dried hamamelis virginiana bark and 1 liter of distilled water to create an herbal infusion.
- Steep the dried hamamelis virginiana bark in the distilled water for 2 hours at 100 degrees fahrenheit.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth and discard the solids to obtain the herbal liquid.
- Combine 200 grams of beeswax and 100 grams of coconut oil with the herbal liquid in a double boiler.
- Heat the mixture over low heat for 30 minutes then remove and let cool before whipping into a creamy consistency.
9. Allium cepa
Allium cepa, also known as onion, creams helps with jock itch because of its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
The cream's active ingredient, Allium cepa extract, helps to inhibit the growth of fungal and bacterial organisms that cause jock itch. The cream's soothing and moisturizing effects also help to calm irritated skin, reducing redness and discomfort associated with jock itch.
This natural remedy provides a safe and effective alternative to traditional treatments, promoting healing and relief from jock itch symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Allium cepa creams that help with jock itch.
- Allicin: Allicin, a sulfur-containing compound, has antifungal properties that help combat the fungal infection causing jock itch, thereby providing relief from itching and discomfort.
- Quercetin: Quercetin, a flavonoid phenolic compound, has anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent further fungal growth, thus aiding in the treatment of jock itch.
- S-allylcysteine sulfoxide: SACS, another sulfur-containing compound found in Allium cepa, has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help control the infection and promote healing of the affected skin area.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of onion used to make creams for jock itch.
- Roots: The roots of Allium cepa are used due to their antibacterial and antifungal properties, which help combat fungal infections causing jock itch.
- Leaves: The leaves of Allium cepa contain compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making them effective in soothing and treating jock itch symptoms.
- Buds: The buds of Allium cepa are used for their antifungal properties, which help prevent the spread of fungal infections and promote healing in the affected area.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic onion for jock itch.
- Harvest 10-15 fresh allium cepa bulbs and thoroughly clean them with distilled water to remove dirt.
- Chop the allium cepa bulbs into fine pieces and soak them in 50ml of distilled water for 30 minutes.
- Heat 100ml of jojoba oil in a double boiler and add 2 tablespoons of the soaked allium cepa mixture to it.
- Steep the mixture for 2 hours and then strain it through a cheesecloth to separate the oil and solids.
- Combine the strained oil with 10g of beeswax and 5g of shea butter and heat the mixture in a double boiler until it reaches 180f.
10. Cymbopogon citratus
Cymbopogon citratus, also known as lemongrass, creams helps with jock itch because of its antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties.
The active compounds in lemongrass, such as citral and geraniol, have been shown to inhibit the growth of fungal pathogens that cause jock itch. The cream's cooling and soothing effects also help to reduce inflammation and itching associated with the condition.
By addressing both the fungal infection and the resulting inflammation, lemongrass creams can provide effective relief from jock itch symptoms.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Cymbopogon citratus creams that help with jock itch.
- Citral: Citral, a terpene, has antifungal properties that help combat the fungal infections causing jock itch.
- Cymbopogonol: Cymbopogonol, a sesquiterpene, exhibits antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, which help soothe and heal the skin affected by jock itch.
- Limonene: Limonene, a terpene, has antimicrobial and antifungal properties that help prevent the growth of fungi that cause jock itch.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of lemongrass used to make creams for jock itch.
- Leaves: Used for their antifungal and antibacterial properties, which help combat fungal infections that cause jock itch.
- Rhyzomes: Utilized for their citral content, which has antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in soothing and treating jock itch.
- Roots: Employed for their medicinal properties, including antifungal and antibacterial compounds that help alleviate symptoms of jock itch.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic lemongrass for jock itch.
- Harvest 30g of dried cymbopogon citratus leaves at the peak of their fragrance and potency for best results.
- Combine the dried leaves with 100ml of sweet almond oil in a double boiler and heat for 2 hours.
- Steep the mixture for 4 hours then strain it through a cheesecloth into a clean container to remove solids.
- Add 20g of beeswax to the oil mixture and heat it gently for 30 minutes to create a smooth consistency.
- Pour the mixture into small containers and let it cool and solidify completely before using the herbal cream.
What is the best combination of herbal creams to use for jock itch?
The best combination of herbal creams that help with jock itch is a blend of Tea Tree Oil, Aloe Vera, and Coconut Oil.
Tea Tree Oil has antifungal properties that combat fungal infections, while Aloe Vera soothes and calms the skin. Coconut Oil's moisturizing properties help to lock in moisture, reducing itching and irritation.
Additionally, incorporating Calendula and Olive Leaf extracts can enhance the healing process, as they possess natural antifungal and antibacterial properties that promote a healthy skin environment.
What ailments similar to jock itch are treated with herbal creams?
Ailments similar to jock itch that are treated with herbal creams are ringworm, athlete's foot, and eczema.
Herbal creams containing tea tree oil, neem oil, and aloe vera have been effective in treating fungal infections like these. These creams work by reducing inflammation, killing fungal spores, and promoting skin healing.
Additionally, some herbal creams may also help soothe itchiness and redness associated with these conditions.