Boy, I'm glad you're argueing with me, SBaby. You're one of the people that seem to like to prove a point, just like me. It's been months since somebody's willing to debate with me.
Tis just a flesh wound: Blood was only used ONCE in the series (although it's more like a representation). In one episode, forgot which one, Jessie smacked James, screen goes black then a streak of red appears that resembles blood, and the next moment, James has a missing tooth. I've never seen bruises in that show, except where cut or piercing marks should be, in which case look like red bruises.
No, it's not for you, Ash Ketchum!: I do agree about the items. But that's just according to the games. Of course you can't eat all of the berries you pick off the trees/bushes/ground (yuck). And the Escape Ropes are only used to get out of dungeons (why dungeons? there's no such thing in the game OR the show) and not for stangling other trainers that irritate you.
Rich people: It's not Ash's job to carry ALL of the items. That's either Brock's or Tracey's depending on the season. During the Orange League episodes, Tracey seemed to provide all the remedies that the group needed just like Brock did (and still does). Besides, Pok?balls cost 200 Pok?yen or whatever unit of money they use and Ash seems to carry a substantal amount of them. In that case, Pok?balls, since they're such a common item, that cost 200 <enter currency unit here> isn't a whole lot.
Mmm, glowey: Speaking of the stange aura around Ash, I'm pretty sure that it symbolizes life in more than just anime (and the other Japanese forms of 'cartoons'). Then again, the aura could be representing other things as well, like the after-effects of being hit by such a strong Psychic attack.
Just for Fun: Potions seem to sting Pok?mon, just like Rubbing Alcohol stings us (ouch).
I wonder if mirrors would reflect either Mew's or Mewtwo's Psychic attacks? Personally, i doubt it.
Oh, and Pikachu isn't gonna die. EVER!!!!!