Symptoms:
This is an eruption of the skin, caused by two skin surfaces rubbing together (groin, breasts, underarms, or inner thighs)

Cause:
Bacteria and yeast can grow in those areas and start an ulceration. Intertrigo primarily affects overweight women who perspire heavily or anyone who has urinary incontinence. In people with diabetes, it is more likely to develop into secondary infections. It most often occurs in warm climates and during the summer.

Treatment:
• Keep the skin surface clean, dry, and free of friction. Use only natural, chemical-free soaps, deodorants, and other products you place on your skin. These are available from a health food store.

• To add dryness, starch can be applied. But never use talcum (baby) powder. It is ground talc, a soft rock which can cause cancer. Do not use it on your body or a baby's.

• Improve the diet and the general health. Eat garlic, soured products, and acidophilus. Avoid sugar and refined foods, for they nourish bacteria.

• Avoid sitting in one position too long. Wear loose fitting, all cotton, clothing. Make sure it is not rubbing on the skin.

• Helpful herbs include chamomile tea, which soothes the skin, fights bacteria, and help healing occur. Aloe vera gel is also good. Tea tree oil will help the skin heal.