WAX OINTMENT Meaning and
Definition
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Wax ointment refers to a medicinal product that is formulated using a base of wax, typically combined with other natural or synthetic ingredients, to produce a thick and semi-solid substance with a greasy or oily consistency. The primary purpose of wax ointments is to provide a protective layer for the skin, aiding in the treatment and prevention of various skin conditions.
This type of ointment often contains a combination of waxes, such as beeswax or paraffin, which creates a barrier on the skin's surface. This barrier helps to lock in moisture, prevent moisture loss from the skin, and protect against irritants and environmental factors. Additionally, wax ointments may include other active ingredients, such as herbal extracts, essential oils, or medications, intended to further promote healing or provide relief for specific skin conditions.
Wax ointments are commonly used for skincare purposes, particularly for dry, cracked, or damaged skin. They can be applied topically to provide a soothing and moisturizing effect, aiding in the treatment of conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, or minor cuts and burns. Due to their consistency and protective properties, wax ointments tend to stay in place longer than other types of ointments or creams and are particularly beneficial for areas that might be frequently exposed to friction or moisture, such as elbows, knees, or feet.
Overall, wax ointments offer a thick, greasy, and protective layer for the skin, creating an environment conducive to healing, moisturizing, and improving overall skin health.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for WAX OINTMENT
- qax ointment
- aax ointment
- sax ointment
- eax ointment
- 3ax ointment
- 2ax ointment
- wzx ointment
- wsx ointment
- wwx ointment
- wqx ointment
- waz ointment
- wac ointment
- wad ointment
- was ointment
- wax iintment
- wax kintment
- wax lintment
- wax pintment
- wax 0intment
- wax 9intment
Etymology of WAX OINTMENT
The word "wax ointment" does not have a unique etymology. Instead, it is a combination of two separate words with their own origins.
The word "wax" comes from the Old English word "weax" and can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "wahsam". It ultimately originates from the Proto-Indo-European root word "wegs", meaning "to be wet" or "to shine".
The word "ointment" comes from the Latin word "unguentum", which refers to a substance applied to the skin. This Latin word derives from the verb "unguere", meaning "to anoint".
When combined, "wax ointment" describes an ointment that contains wax as one of its ingredients. The etymology of the individual words helps us understand the origins and meanings of their respective components.
