The spelling of the word "inunction" can be confusing due to the presence of several silent letters. The word is pronounced as ɪˈnʌŋkʃən, with stress placed on the second syllable. The "i" and "u" are both silent, leaving the "n" and "c" to create the "ngk" sound. The "t" and "i" at the end are also silent. "Inunction" refers to the process of applying medicine to the skin with a rubbing motion. Proper spelling and pronunciation of this term are important for medical professionals.
Inunction refers to the act or process of applying a medicated substance or ointment onto the skin by gently rubbing or massaging it. Derived from the Latin word "inungere," meaning "to smear or anoint," inunction is typically performed with the intention of delivering therapeutic agents or medication directly through the skin and into the underlying tissues. This form of administration is also known as topical application or cutaneous medication.
In everyday usage, inunction commonly involves the use of creams, ointments, or lotions that are applied externally on the skin to treat various skin conditions, such as rashes, infections, or dermatological disorders. The technique usually entails spreading a thin layer of the substance over the affected area and using gentle circular or stroking motions to ensure its absorption.
Historically, inunction has been used since ancient times as a therapeutic method. Different substances like oils, fats, or herbal preparations have been employed in this practice. The notion behind inunction as a medical procedure revolves around the premise that the skin can act as a conduit for introducing beneficial substances into the body, bypassing the digestive system.
Overall, inunction describes the act of applying a medication or substance externally onto the skin through gentle rubbing or massaging, primarily aimed at administering therapeutic agents or treating various skin conditions.
Anointing, the administration of a drug in ointment form applied with rubbing.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "inunction" has its origin in the Latin word "inunctio", which is derived from the verb "inunguere". "Inunguere" is composed of the prefix "in-" meaning "in" or "on", and "unguere" meaning "to smear" or "to anoint". The term was further borrowed into English from Old French as "inunction" and has retained its meaning of applying a substance by rubbing or anointing.