Itching is characterized with an irritation and tingling sensation on the skin surface. It gives one a feeling that something is crawling on the skin. Itching can be quite uncomfortable, generating an urge to scratch the skin vigorously. Itching is medically called pruritus. Itching may or may not be accompanied by visible skin abnormalities like blisters, lesions or bumps. Itching may occur in one particular area of the body or may occur all over the body. Wearing tight, irritating fabrics, using strong soaps, heat and humid conditions, stress and anxiety can worsen itching.

Jock itch or infection of crotch, vaginal itch, anal itching, swimmer's itching are the result of certain infections and rashes. Application of soothing lotions, lukewarm baths and cold compresses can ease out itchy skin conditions. Scratching the itchy surface provides temporary relief, but does eliminate the root cause of itching. Moreover too much of scratching can lead to a thickened skin surface or pigmentation of skin. Itching may be an out come of some underlying medical illness. Mostly itching is not fatal, but can be so embarrassing and uncomfortable that one may need to seek medical help. The symptoms that accompany itching depend on the cause. Some associated symptoms may be runny nose, sneezing, inflammation, swelling, skin redness, scaly skin, cracked skin and rashes.

Some Common Causes of Itching

1. Dry skin
2. Prickly heat
3. Exposure to ultra violet radiation of sun or sunburn.
4. Rashes
5. Allergic reactions
6. Fungal infections
7. Sexually transmitted diseases
8. Irritating chemicals
9. Insect bites and stings
10. Eczema
11. Parasites like pinworms, head lice and scabies.
12. Reaction to medicines
13. Pregnancy.
14. Underlying health disorders like hyperthyroidism, kidney and liver diseases, cancers like lymphoma, polycythemia vera or a blood disease and cholestasis or interruptions in bile flow.

Home Remedies for Itching

1. Neem oil application and neem bath or boiling neem leaves in water, and adding the infusion to bath water can minimize itching.

2. Application of a paste made by mixing baking soda and water can ease itchy conditions.

3. Vitamin E oil may be applied to lessen itching.

4. Washing itchy skin with hot water can give immediate relief.

5. A mixture of Aloe Vera extracts, cod liver oil, Vitamin E oil, lemon juice and wheat germ oil may be applied on skin to deal with intense itching.

6. Application of a mixture of coconut oil and lime juice soothes itching.

7. Adding a cup of white vinegar to bath water and soaking the body in it for 10-15 minutes can yield beneficial results.

8. One may add 2 cups of oatmeal to lukewarm water and soak the itchy parts in it to get some relief.

9. Washing itchy areas with a mixture of one-fourth parts of apple cider vinegar and half parts of water can help one to fight itching.

10. Peppermint bath is a helpful itch relieving remedy.

11. Rubbing Vicks Vapor rub on skin gives immediate relief from itching.

12. A paste made out of cinnamon powder and honey is good for treating itchy conditions.

13. Using moisturizer after every wash would lessen itching.

14. Nettle tea can help to deal effectively with itching.