poultice

A poultice, sometimes called a cataplasm, is a soft, moist mass applied to the body to relieve pain, inflammation, or infection. It is intended to be in direct contact with the skin or placed between the skin and a cloth, often with warmth to support soothing effects. The basic principle is to transfer moisture, heat, or chemical compounds from the material to the skin.

Poultices can be made from a wide range of materials. Common ingredients include plant matter such as herbs and leaves, ground seeds or grains like flaxseed or cornmeal, bread and milk, clay, or commercially prepared pastes. The ingredients are formed into a paste or moistened to a spreadable consistency, spread onto a cloth or directly on the skin, and held in place with a bandage or wrap.

Preparation and use involve applying a warm, moist mass to the affected area for a period that varies from about 15 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the recipe and individual tolerance. The poultice is then removed, and the skin is gently dried. People should avoid applying poultices to broken or irritated skin or to areas with numbness or poor circulation. Caution is advised with certain herbs or compounds that may cause irritation or allergic reactions.

In modern practice, poultices are primarily associated with traditional or complementary medicine. Evidence for effectiveness is variable and often based on anecdotal or historical use rather than robust clinical data. They are not a substitute for medical treatment in serious conditions. The term cataplasm is sometimes used in technical or historical contexts.