Why do we itch? and why does scratching help?

Itching is about the lowest form of detectable pain. Not the best definition, but it’s the best way I can describe it.

When you have a bruise, it helps to rub it, which stimulates the nerves surrounding the area. I suppose that’s why scratching sometimes helps. In general, scratching resolves the problem for a short while, and the itching is redoubled later, usually because you now have irritated or damaged skin in addition to the original problem.

Itching is often a side effect of healing. I have no idea why that is so.

@snowberry thanx :)

Use a search engine. It has to do with histamine.

Maybe some sort of basic response to get the poison out? Just a guess. The body does screwy things sometimes that aren’t very effective, but often there is some basic thing about it that makes sense.

Something always itches when both your hands are busy doing something that cannot be abruptly halted, like carrying something heavy or playing with one’s boobs. I heard this is a reaction from one’s survival mechanism, making sure your hands still work if a panther comes after you. Scratching confirms to one’s brain that one is still bawss.

Probably bullshit though, I mean what the fuck am I going to do, fistfight a panther to death?