| Term | poultice |
| Alternate Terms | cataplasm; herbal compress; plaster |
| Definition | A poultice is a moist mass of crushed herbs, clay or other substances applied topically to draw out infection, reduce inflammation or soothe pain. It is prepared by mixing ingredients with water or oil into a paste then wrapping in cloth. |
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| Context | Widely used in herbal, naturopathic, Ayurvedic and folk medicine traditions for localized skin treatments. |
| Etymology | From Latin pultes meaning porridge or soft paste. |
| Examples | plantain leaves; mustard; flaxseed; bentonite clay |
| Related Terms | compress; fomentation; salve; liniment |
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