Antiseptics are antimicrobial substances applied to living tissue or skin to reduce the possibility of infection or putrefaction. They are generally distinguished from antibiotics by the latter’s ability to be transported through the lymphatic system to destroy bacteria within the body, and also distinguished from disinfectants, which destroy microorganisms found on non-living objects. Antibacterials are antiseptics that have the proven ability to act against bacteria. Some common antiseptics are alcohols, sodium chloride (salt) solution and honey.
