Antipruritic

/ˌæntɪprʊˈrɪtɪk/ adjective

Definition

Something that relieves or reduces itching and scratching sensations on the skin.

Etymology

From anti- (against) + pruritic (from Latin prurire, to itch). Medical terminology combined Latin roots to describe substances that counteract the sensation of itching.

Kelly Says

Calamine lotion and hydrocortisone cream are antipruritic—they interrupt the nerve signals that make you want to scratch, which is why doctors recommend them for chicken pox and insect bites.

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