Liniment

             

 Introduction:

Liniment, from the Latin linere to anoint, is a medicated topical preparation for application to the skin. Preparations of this type are also known as balm. Liniments are of a similar viscosity to lotions but unlike a lotion a liniment is applied with friction, that is, a liniment is always rubbed in.

Definition:

A liniment is an external tincture. They are usually prepared with isopropyl alcohol. Liniments can also be make with ethyl alcohol. They are designed to be rubbed onto sore muscles and sprains. The alcohol is absorbed, carrying the herbal constituents into the injury.

     They are formulated for treating acute and chronic soft tissue injuries, alone or in combination with other therapies.

Formulation:

Ingredients	Amount
Soft soap	3.75 gm
Camphor	2.50 gm
Turpentine oil	32.50 ml
Purified water	11.25 ml

Procedure:

• Dissolve the camphor in turpentine oil in a dry container.
• Separately dissolve soft soap in a small amount of purified water in a mortar.
• To this gradually add the camphor solution with thorough trituration after each addition until a thick creamy emulsion is formed.
• Add sufficient purified water to produce the required volume.
• Transfer the preparation to a bottle, label and dispense.
• Apply the label “For external use only.” and “Shake the bottle before use.”

Storage:

Liniment should be stored in tightly closed containers. The containers must bear a label “For external use only.” and “Shake the bottle well before use.”

Liniments should be dispensed in coloured fluted bottles in order to distinguish preparations meant for internal use.

Uses:

Liniment is an old time, natural remedy used for temporary relief of rheumatic aches and pains, as well as soreness, muscle strains and aches due to overexertion. It is a liquid preparation that is applied to the skin externally to warm and protect muscles or to relieve muscle pain and stiffness. It's used by the elderly, by athelets, weekend warriors, those who work at physically demanding jobs or anyone who over does it.

It may help the following conditions:

• arthritis - apply to the arthritic joint, then rub in.
• bruises - apply as soon as the bruise occures.
• carpal tunnel syndrome.
• herniated disks, stiff necks.
• muscle strains, sprained ankles.
• tennis elbow, knee pain.

Method of working:

Liniments contain ingredients that when rubbed over the affected area of your body cause a mild irritation or a sensation of heat which may bring more blood to the painful or stiff area.

Precautions:

Liniments are not to be applied to the broken skin because they may produce excessive irritation of the skin.

Examples:

• Methyl salicylate liniment.
• Turpentine liniment.
• White liniment.