Axunge

/ækˈsʌndʒ/ noun

Definition

Grease or lard, especially pig fat used historically in medicines and ointments.

Etymology

From Latin 'axungia' (grease, lard), related to 'axis' (pivot/axle) by folk etymology, though the true origin is uncertain; used heavily in medieval pharmacy.

Kelly Says

For centuries, lard was medicine—apothecaries would mix herbs and animal fats to make salves that actually worked because fat-soluble compounds absorb into skin far better than water-based mixtures.

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