What is the key factor when making ointments to ensure all ingredients are well combined?

When making ointments, the key factor in ensuring that all ingredients are well combined is blending the mixture. Blending refers to the uniform integration of the various components to create a consistent and homogenous product. This process helps to ensure that active ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the ointment, improving its efficacy and stability.

While heating, stirring, and cooling are all important processes in the context of ointment preparation, they primarily support the blending process. Heating can help to dissolve certain ingredients or reduce viscosity, making it easier to blend. Stirring, although essential for mixing, may not achieve the same thorough integration as blending. Cooling is typically involved to stabilize the ointment after it has been blended, but it is not directly responsible for the initial combination of ingredients.

Overall, blending is fundamental to achieving a well-mixed ointment, as it allows for complete incorporation of all constituents, resulting in a product that has the desired texture, consistency, and therapeutic properties.