What Is a Liniment?

A liniment is a liquid herbal preparation that is for external use only. A liniment is thinner than a salve and prepared like a tincture. The purpose of a liniment is to draw, warm or dry an area of skin. It can be used to disinfect cuts and wounds. It helps to heal wounds, bruises, sprains, burns and sunburns.

History

• Liniments are a favorite remedy in folk medicine. Just a century ago, liniments were advertised as a cure-all. They were used externally and internally. One of the best-known is Sloan's liniment, which was marketed as "The World's Liniment Recommended for Rheumatic Aches and Pains and Sprains and Strains." Sloan's liniment is still sold today in health food stores and pharmacies.

Use

• Naturopaths and herbalists still use liniments in treatments that call for a concentrated herbal extract. Liniments are used externally to treat skin conditions, body aches and muscle pains. The herbs used in the liniment are absorbed quickly through the skin.

Warning

• Liniments are based on rubbing alcohol, which is lethal when swallowed. Never drink a liniment, no matter how good it smells. When making your own liniment, clearly label the jars "For External Use Only." Draw a skull and crossbones on the label if you want. Store your liniments out of the reach of children. Store them away from food to prevent accidental ingestion.

Materials

• Gather a knife, cutting board and a clean quart jar with a tight-fitting lid to get started making your own liniment. You will also need a funnel, coffee filter and label. Make sure that the jar is large enough to hold the finished product. Measure out one part herbal mixture and two parts rubbing alcohol.

How-To

• Finely chop your fresh or dried herbs. Place the herb mixture in the quart jar. Add enough alcohol to cover your herbs. Seal with the lid and label the jar. Put the ingredients, the date and the do-not-drink warning on the jar label. Store in a cool dark cupboard for two to six weeks. Shake the jar every couple of days to mix the herbs and alcohol. Pour the liniment through the funnel lined with the coffee filter into the clean, dry, dark glass bottle. Seal and label the jar. Remember to put the do-not-drink warning on this label as well. Store in a cool area.