Effective Management of Tinea Cruris using Ayurvedic Remedies: A Case Report

Tinea cruris, or jock itch, is a fungal infection of the groin area caused by fungi belonging to the genera Trichophyton, Epidermophyton, and Microsporum. It presents with intense itching, red scaly patches, and rashes that may extend from the groin to the thighs. In severe cases, blisters or pustules can form. This condition is common in warm, humid climates and often affects athletes, obese individuals, and those who sweat excessively. The major external covering of the body, the skin, is primarily affected by fungal infections. In Ayurveda, skin fungal infections are termed Kshudra Kushtha (minor skin diseases), which clinically resemble the symptoms of tinea cruris. In the present case study, a 45-year-old male patient presented with symptoms including itching in the lumbar and peripheral back region, piercing pain, burning sensation, and discoloration with redness of the skin. He was treated with Panchakarma procedures, including Haridradigana medicated enema, and oral Ayurvedic medications for antifungal palliative care, including Aryogyavardhini Vati, Gandhak Rasayana, Avipattikar Churna, Krumikuthar Rasa, and Chandraprabha Vati. After 14 days of treatment, the patient was assessed using a symptomatic assessment scale. Tinea cruris was successfully treated using this specific combination of detoxification and palliative treatment in Ayurveda. Further clinical trials with larger sample sizes are warranted to validate these findings.