8. Poultices

Cataplasms are semi-solid preparations for cutaneous application, consisting of a hydrophilic, heat-retaining base in which one or more solid or liquid active substances are dispersed. They are generally spread in a thick layer over a suitable dressing, and heated before application to the skin. For example, poultices made from crushed green clay are wrapped in a cloth and applied to the skin. Clays are calcium and magnesium silicates or aluminosilicates, rich in macro and oligoelements, used as poultices during balneotherapy cures to relieve inflammatory dermatoses, repair the skin barrier and relieve osteoarticular affections