Itching powder
Encyclopedia
Itching powder refers to a group of powders
or powder-like substances that induce itching when applied onto human skin
. This is usually done as a practical joke
or prank to an unsuspecting victim.
The cause of the irritation can be mechanical, such as products containing ground rose hips. In other cases, the irritant causes contact dermatitis
. For instance, a proteolytic enzyme in okra
can cause irritation and lesions. Another common ingredient is Mucuna pruriens
.
Powder (substance)
A powder is a dry,thick bulk solid composed of a large number of very fine particles that may flow freely when shaken or tilted. Powders are a special sub-class of granular materials, although the terms powder and granular are sometimes used to distinguish separate classes of material...
or powder-like substances that induce itching when applied onto human skin
Skin
-Dermis:The dermis is the layer of skin beneath the epidermis that consists of connective tissue and cushions the body from stress and strain. The dermis is tightly connected to the epidermis by a basement membrane. It also harbors many Mechanoreceptors that provide the sense of touch and heat...
. This is usually done as a practical joke
Practical joke device
A practical joke device is a manufactured prop or toy intended to confuse, frighten, or amuse individuals as a prank. Often, these objects are harmless facsimiles of disgusting or terrifying objects, such as vomit or spilled nail polish...
or prank to an unsuspecting victim.
The cause of the irritation can be mechanical, such as products containing ground rose hips. In other cases, the irritant causes contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a term for a skin reaction resulting from exposure to allergens or irritants . Phototoxic dermatitis occurs when the allergen or irritant is activated by sunlight....
. For instance, a proteolytic enzyme in okra
Okra
Okra is a flowering plant in the mallow family. It is valued for its edible green seed pods. The geographical origin of okra is disputed, with supporters of South Asian, Ethiopian and West African origins...
can cause irritation and lesions. Another common ingredient is Mucuna pruriens
Mucuna pruriens
Mucuna pruriens is a tropical legume known as velvet bean or cowitch and by other common names , found in Africa, India and the Caribbean. The plant is infamous for its extreme itchiness produced on contact, particularly with the young foliage and the seed pods...
.