Pruritus is a neurofunctional disorder characterized primarily by itching without primary skin damage. This condition can be triggered or exacerbated by factors such as alcohol consumption, emotional changes, overly warm bedding, and certain suggestions. Due to frequent scratching, the affected area may exhibit scratches, scabs, and over time, the skin may thicken, the skin lines may become coarse, and secondary damage such as pigmentation and lichenification may occur. Additionally, this condition is more likely to occur on the lower limbs, has a long course, is more prevalent in winter, and improves in spring. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, pruritus falls under the categories of "itchy wind" and "blood wind sores." The condition is often related to yin deficiency of the liver and kidneys, blood deficiency with wind dryness, and loss of nourishment to the skin, or it may be caused by dampness and wind accumulating in the skin without proper relief.
Spleen Qi Deficiency Type: Paroxysmal itching that worsens with exposure to wind and cold, poor appetite, shortness of breath, and lack of energy; the tongue is pale, the coating is white, and the pulse is thin and weak.
Liver and Kidney Deficiency Type: Itching is mainly at night, the skin is dry with excessive scaling, thickened with a mat-like appearance, there is soreness in the waist and knees, and restless sleep at night; the tongue is pale, the coating is yellow, and the pulse is deep and thin.
Qi and Blood Dual-Flare Type: The skin is diffusely flushed and red, with severe itching, numerous scratch marks and bloodstains, restlessness, thirst, and short, dark urine; the tongue is red, the coating is yellow, and the pulse is rapid.
It is recommended to perform moxibustion once a day, targeting 2 to 3 acupoints each time, with each acupoint being treated for 30 to 40 minutes. Rotate the points treated, with a 10-day period constituting one course of treatment, and then rest for 2 to 3 days before continuing with the next course. (If time permits and there is a need, more acupoints can be treated with moxibustion. The specific duration should be adjusted according to one's own physical needs.)
1. During the illness, avoid excessive scratching to prevent skin damage and secondary infection. Refrain from using strongly alkaline soap for bathing and avoid scalding hot water. 2. Develop a habit of changing underwear promptly, and choose soft, loose cotton or silk fabrics for underwear, avoiding woolen products. 3. Avoid spicy and irritating foods, strong tea, coffee, and foods such as fish, shrimp, and mutton that may trigger the condition. 4. Dietary Therapy Recipe: Kelp and Mung Bean Soup. 250 grams of kelp, 100 grams of mung beans, and an appropriate amount of white sugar. Cut the kelp into small pieces and cook it with mung beans and white sugar in water to make soup. Take once daily for 10 consecutive days. This soup has the effect of clearing heat, benefiting dampness, and relieving itching.