The superstition that itchy palms indicate financial gain or loss is an old belief that originated in the Middle Ages. Itchy right palm: Means you're about to receive money and Itchy left palm: Means you're about to lose money. The superstition also warns against scratching the itch, as this could block the money from coming your way. To scratch without risking financial ruin, some say you can rub your left palm on a piece of wood.