text: what's in horse liniment? i heard it's good for humans with leg pains. liniment, from the latin linere, to anoint, is a medicated topical preparation for application to the skin. liniments are of a similar viscosity to lotions (being significantly less viscous than an ointment or cream) but unlike a lotion a liniment is applied with friction, that is a liniment is always rubbed in.  liniments are typically sold to relieve pain and stiffness, such as from sore muscles or from arthritis. these liniments typically are formulated from alcohol.  now horse liniment is dimethyl sulfoxide (dmso). while dmso has a low toxicity, prolonged exposure can cause dermatitis and possibly damage the liver or kidneys.  it is commonly used as a liniment for horses, although its use in humans is controversial.