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Substances whose application diminishes the force of cohesion in the particles of the solid matter of the human body, and thereby renders them more lax and flexible.

According to this definition, which we derive from Dr. Cullen, the primary operation of emollients would appear to be purely mechanical, for they are insinuated into the matter of the solid fibre, and either diminish its density, or lessen the friction between its particles; this explanation will undoubtedly apply to those emollients which consist of unctuous bodies, and which are introduced into the animal fibre by friction; but it is evident that the beneficial effects of Cataplasms and Fomentations cannot be so explained; for in these instances, none of the materials can be absorbed through the entire cuticle; and yet the relaxation and consequent ease which such warm applications produce on inflamed surfaces is very considerable, but it must be wholly attributed to the relaxing effects of warmth and moisture upon the extreme vessels of the surface, propagated by contiguous sympathy to the deeper seated organs.