From Wikipedia,
the free encyclopedia
Liniment, from the
Latin linere, to
anoint, is a medicated topical
preparation for application to the
skin. Liniments are of a similar
viscosity to
lotions (being significantly
less viscous than an
ointment or
cream) but unlike a lotion a
liniment is applied with
friction, that is a liniment
is always rubbed in.
Liniments are typically sold to
relieve pain and stiffness, such
as from sore
muscles or from
arthritis. These liniments
typically are formulated from
alcohol,
acetone, or similar quickly
evaporating
solvents, and contain
counterirritant aromatic chemical
compounds such as
benzoin resin or
capsaicin.
Opodeldoc is a sort of
liniment invented by the physician
Paracelsus. Absorbine Jr.
is a trade name for a brand of
liniment widely sold in the
United States.
Traditional Chinese medicine
features a wide variety of
different liniments, with
applications ranging from topical
anaesthetics used in bone
setting to simple sore muscles and
bruises, such as
Dit Da Jow.
Horse liniment is
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO).
