What term is used for an agent that produces superficial irritation to relieve a deeper irritation?

A counter irritant refers to a substance that, when applied, creates a localized irritation or inflammatory response to alleviate pain or discomfort arising from deeper tissue or underlying irritation. This therapeutic approach is based on the principle that creating a mild irritation can distract the body from more intense or deeper pain sensations, promoting relief in the affected area. It is commonly used in various topical analgesics and ointments.

The other terms mentioned describe different types of agents: analgesics primarily provide pain relief without causing irritation, antiseptics are aimed at preventing infection, and analgesic balm typically combines pain relief properties with a soothing effect but does not specifically address the mechanism of superficial irritation for deeper issues.