| Term | topical oil |
| Alternate Terms | external oil; massage oil; skin oil |
| Definition | A topical oil is a liquid preparation applied directly to the skin for therapeutic effects. It often consists of herbal infusions or essential oils in a carrier base. Such oils are used across multiple healing traditions for localized relief. |
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| Context | Utilized in naturopathy, Ayurveda, and TCM for external treatments. |
| Etymology | Derived from Greek 'topikos' meaning place and Latin 'oleum' for oil. |
| Examples | lavender oil; arnica oil; calendula oil; coconut oil |
| Related Terms | essential oil; carrier oil; liniment; balm |
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