A random itch or two is normal and harmless, but persistent itching sensations can be troublesome and scarring too. Our skin is the only part of the body that gets continuously exposed to pollution and external irritation. This contamination induces allergic reactions that result in itchy skin sensations referred to as Pruritus. Read on to know how to stop itching using simple natural methods.
The itchy skin rash is a defense mechanism of the body that alerts the brain to the manifestation of pathogenic invasion and physical harm like bug bites, dust, etc.
An external stimulus usually induces the initiation of itching sensation. The external factor brushes against the outer layer of the skin causing a sense of irritation in the dermal receptors. The receptors transmit a signal via the skin fibers to the spinal cord and the cerebral cortex area of the brain.
The brain then signals the urge to scratch the itchy skin area. When these itchy sensations persist for long, it becomes tremendously irritating. If you are wondering how to stop itching, then you need to know that itchy skin is a dermatological condition that can be treated with simple home remedies for itching as described right here.
The powerful humectant nature of raw honey is incredibly beneficial for the cure of itchy face and itchy skin rash(1).
Topical application of natural honey locks in the moisture and helps to hydrate the skin. The antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of honey make it highly effective in suppressing the different symptoms of itching all over the body.
Below are the listed foods to eat and avoid to get rid of the Itching:
Foods to eat |
Foods to avoid |
Bananas | Gluten |
Berries | Soy products |
Oily fish | Cow’s milk |
Chicken or meat broth | Nuts |
Fresh vegetables | Eggs |
Mint leaves are a rich source of the biochemical compound named menthol. Menthol is anesthetic and anti-inflammatory in nature.
Topical application of mint leaves to the dry, itchy skin can help with the alleviation of the burning sensation and cure the inflammation of the skin in a few hours.
While using mint leaves, make sure they are fresh and not rotten. And, use the infusion in a temperature that you can bear, possibly using a warm infusion is very beneficial.
The menthol contained in peppermint oil is incredibly useful to stop itching. It is one of the best essential oils for itching. It so happens that the sides of the ears begin to feel itchy. Excessive use of cosmetic creams on the face, irregularity in cleaning the hair, the infestation of hair lice and dandruff are the reasons for which the area behind the ears become red and itchy(2).
If you are looking for a solution to stop itching, then try a few drops of peppermint essential oil combined with almond oil. The medium-chain fatty acids contained in almond oil helps to keep the skin naturally hydrated and supple. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine properties.
The analgesic and anesthetic properties of peppermint essential oil can cure the redness of the skin, numb the pain, dryness and itching sensation in no time. A precautionary measure for this remedy is to make sure that the oil does not enter the ears or the ear canal.
Always use the peppermint essential oil or any other essential oil by mixing it with a carrier oil. Do not apply it directly as it may cause inflammation. Doing a patch test is the best that you can do to save your skin from any damage.
The topical application of fresh aloe vera gel is an incredible method to stop itching.
The cooling nature of the gel heals the itchy skin rash, soothes the burning and itchy sensations and nourishes the epidermis. The anti-inflammatory property of aloe vera gel cures breast itching, nipple itching, itching ears, and itchy back, hydrates the dryness of skin, suppresses the skin inflammation, and curbs the skin irritation.
It also helps to keep the skin supple and soft. Besides, being rich in vitamin E, aloe vera gel is highly beneficial for the healthy glow of the skin.
It is recommended to use fresh gel extracted from the leaf for any topical application. But make sure that after plucking the leaf, use it the same day.
Coconut oil is one of the most effective natural remedies for vaginal itching(3) and anal itching. Genital itching occurs due to dryness of the area, sweating, inflammation of the skin, allergic reactions to underwear fabric and other such factors.
The essential fatty acids present in coconut oil are non-inflammatory. The anti-histamine biochemical compounds present in coconut oil soothe the allergic reactions and alleviate the itchy sensations. The topical application of coconut oil to the genital regions helps in fighting against the inflammation and dryness of skin and keeps it healthy and moisturized.
Always look for organic and pure coconut oil for application on the skin. Coconut oil is very safe for topical use but do a patch test if you have sensitive skin.
Exfoliation of the skin is one of the most excellent home remedies for itching. This method works by the elimination of dust and dead cells that cling to the epidermis and induce severe itching sensations and itchy skin rash.
If you are wondering to stop itching then try scrubbing off the external factors like dust and peeling skin that is causing the itchy sensations. The best agent of exfoliation of the skin is a tablespoon of Fuller’s Earth.
Scrubbing the skin with a paste of Fuller’s Earth helps in sloughing off the stubborn dead skin and dirt and rejuvenating the healthy glow of the skin.
Always look for alternative ingredients if you have sensitive skin. Do a patch test before proper application as yogurt might irritate your skin.
The natural remedies to stop itching are incredibly beneficial and leave no side effects on the skin. However, if the itchiness and allergies persist and become more painful over time, make sure to consult with a physician.
The treatments listed in this article are available for purchase online. |