ICHTHYOL

Ichthyol is commonly used in skincare products such as night creams and facial toners, particularly in formulations aimed at treating acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis.
Ichthyol is widely used in various creams and ointments for the treatment of dermatological diseases, mainly psoriasis and eczema.
Ichthyol is also used in veterinary medicine.

CAS Number: 8029-68-3​
EC Number: Not specified in the provided sources​
Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₂₀S₄
Molecular Weight: 368.6 g/mol

SYNONYMS:
Ichthyol, ammonium bituminosulfonate, ammonium bituminosulphonate, bituminosulfonates, Ammonium Bituminosulfonate, Ammonium Bituminosulphonate, Ichthammol, Ichthyol, Ammonium Ichthyolsulfonate, Ammonium Sulfobituminat, Ammonium Sulfoichthyolate, Bituminosulfonic Acid Ammonium Salt, Ichthyolum, Sulfonated Shale Oil Ammonium Salt

Ichthammol or ammonium bituminosulfonate (brand name Ichthyol), also known as black ointment, is a medication derived from sulfur-rich oil shale (bituminous schists).
Ichthyol is a traditional active ingredient in dermatology and skincare, known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and soothing properties.

Bituminosulfonates are considered topical therapeutic agents with very good tolerability.
Ichthyol ointments, commonly known as black ointment or drawing salve, should not be confused with black salve, an escharotic (corrosive) paste intended to destroy skin tissue.

In contrast, Ichthyol does not have any corrosive properties on the skin.
Ichthyol is a product of natural origin obtained in the first step by dry distillation of sulfur-rich oil shale (bituminous schists).
By sulfonation of the resulting oil (or purified fractions thereof), and subsequent neutralization with ammonia, Ichthyol results as a viscous, water-soluble substance with a characteristic bitumen-like odor.

Ichthyol is used in medicine (sometimes in combination with zinc oxide) as a treatment for different skin diseases, including eczema and psoriasis (see below).
Ichthyol is a product of natural origin obtained in the first step by dry distillation of sulfur-rich oil shale.

Ichthyol is used in medicine as a remedy for treating some forms of skin diseases, such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Ichthyol is commonly used in an ointment in 10% or 20% concentrate as a "drawing salve", also called "black ointment".
Its dermatological action was discovered by Austrian physician Paul Gerson Unna.

From elementary analysis, Ichthyol's composition was calculated to be C28H36S5O6(NH4)2.
However, as a product from natural origin, Ichthyol is a mixture of many different compounds.
Chemically, Ichthyol is a sulfonated shale oil.

Ichthyol can be presented in two forms: pale sulfonated shale oil (PSSO), and dark sulfonated shale oil (DSSO).
DSSO is also sometimes called Ichthyol.
The last form is a thick reddish-brown liquid, possessing a bituminous odor and taste.

Ichthyol is soluble in water and miscible with glycerin, but is nearly insoluble in strong alcohol or concentrated ether.
Ichthyol contains a large percentage of organically combined sulfur.
Ichthyol is incompatible with acids, alkali carbonates or hydrates and alkaloidal salts.

Pharmacologically, PSSO and DSSO have anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, and fungicidal properties.
In otology, a mixture of glycerol and Ichthyol (G & I) has been used for generations for the topical treatment of ear infections.
Ichthyol is efficient against Gram-positive organisms.

The anti-inflammatory action of Ichthyol is explained by its influence on the formation, secretion, and effect of inflammation mediators.
DSSO is well tolerated and no indications of teratogenic, mutagenic or carcinogenic effects have been noted.
The European Medicines Agency recently published a Summary Report on Ichthyol-substances (synonym: bituminosulfonates) in the course of the European Maximum Residue Limits (MRL) procedure (see report from June 2005) in veterinary medicine.

The committee for Medicinal Products for Veterinary Use (CVMP) decided that because of good tolerance and safety, there is no need to establish an MRL for Ichthyol-substances.
As a result, Ichthyol-substances can be applied topically in all mammalian food-producing species without restriction.

Ichthyol is obtained by distillation from certain bituminous schists, sulfonation of the distillate, and neutralization of the product with ammonia.
Ichthyol is also called Ammonium bituminosulfonate or ammonium bituminosulphonate.

Ichthyol (USAN: Ictasol) is produced from the light (as opposed to heavy) fraction of distilled shale oil.
Ichthyol has a pale appearance.
There appears to be an oral preparation made from this mixture.

Chinese vegetable oil product: "Ichthyol" (鱼石脂 Yushizhi) made in China does not meet standards for ichthammol as specified in United States Pharmacopoeia (USP), European Pharmacopoeia (Ph.Eur), or for the CAS number.
Instead of requiring bituminous schists like these definitions, the Chinese Pharmacopoeia definition for "Ichthyol" uses ordinary vegetable oil.

Ichthyol is a mixture obtained by sulfurization of vegetable oils (soybean oil, tung oil, corn oil, etc.), sulfonation, and neutralization with ammonia.
Organic sulfur content ≥ 5.5%, ammonium content ≥ 2.5%. — Chinese definition according to ChP 10

As a result, Chinese "Ichthyol" is very different from standard ichthammol.
The characteristic bitumen-like odor (originating from the bituminous source material) is missing with Chinese material.
Ichthyol is effective against Gram-positive bacteria. 

The anti-inflammatory action is explained by Ichthyol's influence on the formation, secretion, and effect of inflammation mediators.
Availability Ichthyol is available in pharmacies for compounding medications. 
Different sources of information exist for exemplary formulations (creams, shake lotions, suppositories, etc.).

Pharmacology Ichthyol has anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, and fungicidal properties.
Ichthyol is a complex organic-chemical compound with a characteristic odor.
Ichthyol is produced by dry distillation of oil shale rich in sulphur (oil shale is produced in Seefeld, Tyrol, Bärental/Tyrol, Meride/Ticino, and other places).

Oil shale is produced from dead phytoplankton, which was stored under anoxic conditions for many thousands of years.
After the dry distillation, a sulphonation with concentrated sulphuric acid and finally a neutralisation with ammonia takes place.
If the neutralization is carried out with sodium hydroxide, the sodium bituminosulfonate is formed.

Ichthyol is a syrup-like black liquid.
As a sulphonate salt, Ichthyol is surface-active and soluble in water (essential difference to coal tar), glycerine, wool wax, and vaseline.
Ichthyol is poorly soluble in fatty oils, ethanol, and ether.

Ichthyol, a unique and lesser-known topical ointment, has been used for various medicinal purposes for decades.
Ichthyol, also known as ammonium bituminosulfonate, is a dark, viscous substance that has been employed in dermatology for well over a century.

USES and APPLICATIONS of ICHTHYOL:
Extracted from sedimentary rock, Ichthyol, also known as Ictasol or shale oil, has been used for centuries to treat various skin problems and is particularly effective for inflammatory skin conditions.
Ichthyol works through its unique composition, which enables it to reduce inflammation and inhibit bacterial growth.

Ichthyol soothes irritated skin, relieves redness and itching, and supports the healing of skin lesions.
Its astringent properties help refine pores and control excess sebum, making Ichthyol an effective remedy for acne and oily skin.
Ichthyol is commonly used in skincare products such as night creams and facial toners, particularly in formulations aimed at treating acne, rosacea, eczema, and psoriasis.

Ichthyol is also a popular ingredient in scalp treatments to combat dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Products containing Ichthyol are ideal for daily skincare to relieve inflammatory skin conditions and improve the appearance of the skin.
Ichthyol is effective against acne and inflammatory skin blemishes.

Ichthyol helps with rosacea and skin redness.
Ichthyol is beneficial for eczema and psoriasis.
Ichthyol can treat oily skin and enlarged pores.

Ichthyol also addresses scalp problems such as dandruff and seborrheic dermatitis.
Ichthyol is widely used in various creams and ointments for the treatment of dermatological diseases, mainly psoriasis and eczema.
Ichthyol is also used in veterinary medicine.

Ichthyol suitable for use in dermatology and veterinary preparations.
Medical use of Ichthyol: Skin disorders Ichthyol is used to treat a variety of skin disorders as e.g. eczema, psoriasis, Acne rosacea and acne.
According to the "list of preferred Specials" by the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) Ichthyol can be used in dermatology prescribing to treat acutely inflamed atopic eczema, among others. 

A corresponding recommendation exists for bituminosulfonates in Germany.
According to “guideline atopic eczema” bituminosulfonates can be considered for treatment of atopic eczema based on general clinic experience.
In the European Dermatology Forum (EDF) guidelines for treatment of atopic eczema Ichthyol is recommended as a useful addition to the basic treatment regimen, especially in mild disease or if TCS treatment is not possible from a patient’s perspective, e.g. corticophobia (steroid phobia).

Ear infections: In otology, a mixture of glycerol and Ichthyol (G & I) is used for the topical treatment of ear infections.
Ichthyol is used (sometimes in combination with zinc oxide) as a treatment for different skin diseases, including eczema and psoriasis.
Ichthyol is applied on the skin as an ointment, most commonly containing 10% or 20% ichthammol.

Medical Applications: Ichthyol is employed in dermatology for treating skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis due to its anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, and fungicidal properties.
Ichthyol is used in veterinary medicine for topical applications, with no established Maximum Residue Limit (MRL) required for mammalian food-producing species.

Its uses span a variety of skin conditions, but one might wonder what the underlying mechanisms are that make Ichthyol so effective.
Ichthyol is derived from bituminous schists through a process of dry distillation, followed by sulfonation and neutralization with ammonia.
The resulting compound is rich in sulfur, which plays a crucial role in its medicinal properties.

The primary mechanisms by which Ichthyol operates include its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and keratoplastic effects.
One of the most prominent actions of Ichthyol is its anti-inflammatory effect.
Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or infection, but excessive or prolonged inflammation can exacerbate skin conditions.

Ichthyol helps to mitigate this response by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes such as prostaglandins and cyclooxygenase.
This results in reduced redness, swelling, and pain, which are common symptoms in various dermatological issues.
The antimicrobial properties of Ichthyol further enhance its utility in treating skin conditions.

It has been shown to exhibit bacteriostatic and fungistatic activities, meaning Ichthyol can inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi without necessarily killing them outright.
This is particularly beneficial in conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis, where microbial colonization can worsen symptoms.

The sulfur content in Ichthyol interferes with the metabolic pathways of these microorganisms, thereby impeding their ability to proliferate.
Another noteworthy mechanism is Ichthyol's keratoplastic effect, which helps in softening and breaking down keratin.
Keratin is a structural protein that can build up excessively in certain skin conditions, leading to hardened and thickened skin.

By promoting the desquamation (shedding) of dead skin cells, Ichthyol aids in the normalization of the skin's texture and appearance.
This makes it particularly effective in treating conditions like lichen simplex chronicus and ichthyosis.
Additionally, Ichthyol has a mild local anesthetic effect, which can provide immediate relief from itching and discomfort.

This is achieved through the inhibition of sensory nerve signals in the skin, offering a temporary respite from the incessant urge to scratch.
Ichthyol is often formulated in ointments and pastes, sometimes in combination with other therapeutic agents like zinc oxide.
Ichthyol's viscous nature helps in creating a protective barrier over the affected area, which not only keeps the medication in place but also shields the skin from external irritants.

This occlusive property is particularly beneficial in wound care and in the management of chronic skin ulcers.
While Ichthyol is generally well-tolerated, it is not without potential side effects.
Some individuals may experience local irritation or allergic reactions.

Therefore, Ichthyol is advisable to conduct a patch test before applying it to a larger area of the skin, especially for those with sensitive skin.
Despite these minor drawbacks, its multifaceted mechanisms make Ichthyol a valuable asset in the realm of dermatology.

In summary, the efficacy of Ichthyol can be attributed to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and keratoplastic properties.
By targeting multiple pathways involved in skin disorders, Ichthyol offers a comprehensive approach to treatment.
Whether you're dealing with an acute flare-up or a chronic condition, understanding the mechanisms of Ichthyol can provide insight into why this age-old remedy continues to hold relevance in modern dermatological practice.

Treatment of Skin Conditions: Ichthyol is primarily used in dermatology for various skin conditions.
Splinters and Foreign Objects: Ichthyol is sometimes applied to the skin over a splinter or foreign object to draw it to the surface, making it easier to remove.

Veterinary: Ichthyol is not limited to human medicine; it is also used in veterinary medicine to treat various skin issues in animals, such as skin infections, abscesses, and insect bites.

-Boils and Abscesses uses of Ichthyol:
Ichthyol ointment is applied topically to boils and abscesses to help draw out pus and promote healing.
Ichthyol can reduce pain and discomfort associated with these conditions.

-Acne and Pimples uses of Ichthyol:
Some individuals use Ichthyol ointment as a spot treatment for acne and pimples.
Ichthyol's anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce redness and swelling associated with these skin blemishes.

-Eczema and Psoriasis uses of Ichthyol:
Ichthyol can provide relief for itchy and inflamed skin in conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Ichthyol may help reduce itching and soothe irritated skin.

-Wound Care uses of Ichthyol:
Ichthyol can be used to aid in wound care, particularly for wounds with localized infections or pus.
Ichthyol may help clean and disinfect wounds, reduce inflammation, and promote the natural healing process.
However, Ichthyol should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

-Veterinary use:
The European Medicines Agency published a summary report on Ichthyol-substances (synonym: bituminosulfonates) during the course of the European Maximum Residue Limits (MRL) procedure in veterinary medicine.

The Committee for Medicinal Products for Veterinary Use (CVMP) decided that due to good tolerance and safety, there is no need to establish an MRL for Ichthyol-substances.
As a result, Ichthyol-substances can be applied topically in all mammalian food-producing species without restriction.

PHARMACEUTICAL FORMULATIONS USES OF ICHTHYOL:
Ichthyol is available in ointments, commonly at concentrations of 10% or 20%, for topical use.
Ichthyol is utilized in creams, shake lotions, and suppositories.
Ichthyol is a pale sulfonated shale oil that is obtained from the distillation of shale deposits containing fossilized fish.

Ichthyol is the sodium salt of this oil in aqueous solution and possesses various action principles, including anti-inflammatory, anti-itching, antimicrobial, sebaceous gland regulating, and keratostatic properties.

Pharmacological properties Ichthyol has antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, keratolytic properties.
When applied to the skin, Ichthyol acts as an antiseptic and keratolytic substance.

Application Externally in the form of 10-20% of ointment and alcohol-Ichthyol solution (1:25) for the treatment of wounds, dermatitis, eczema, burns, abrasions, arthritis, neuralgia, tendonitis, tenosynovitis, bursitis, mastitis, myositis, with scabies, athlete’s foot, scab in the form of ointments (10-20%) mixed with other drugs phenol (tar kreolinom, Lysol).
In metritis, vaginitis, and salpingitis using 3-5% solution.

Apply for diseases of the digestive system: tympaniyi, gastritis, flatulence, enteritis.
Inside injected 0.1-2% aqueous solution as an antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and protybrodylnyy.
Ichthyol Ointment 10% is a powerful topical treatment for skin conditions, containing a high concentration of Ichthyol.

This natural ingredient has been proven to reduce inflammation and irritation, and promote healing.
With a convenient 50 gm size, it is perfect for on-the-go use.
Trust the expertise of Ichthyol Ointment for effective relief.

Ichthyol Gel is recommended for problematic, acne-prone skin.
The ointment should be applied to the affected area 1-2 times a day.
The main substance of the ointment is Ichthyol.

Ichthyol has an astringent and antiseptic effect. Its action is to reduce skin inflammation, and accelerate skin healing and regeneration.
The great advantage of the preparation is its fast and effective action - in many situations, improvement is already visible after the first application.

PRODUCTION OF ICHTHYOL:
Ichthyol is obtained through three steps from bituminous schists: dry distillation, sulfonation of the resulting oil (or purified fractions thereof), and finally neutralization with ammonia.

PROPERTIES OF ICHTHYOL:
Ichthyol is a viscous, water-soluble substance with a characteristic bitumen-like odor.
Ichthyol is incompatible with acids, alkali carbonates or hydrates, and alkaloidal salts.

Ichthyol is a thick reddish-brown liquid, possessing a bituminous odor and taste.
Ichthyol is soluble in water and miscible with glycerin, but is nearly insoluble in strong alcohol or concentrated ether.
Ichthyol contains a large percentage of organically combined sulfur.

Chemically speaking, Ichthyol is a sulfonated shale oil.
From elemental analysis, the composition of Ichthyol was calculated to be C28H36S5O6(NH4)2.
However, as a product of natural origin, Ichthyol is a mixture of many different compounds.

SIMILAR MATERIALS:
Similar substances can be made by altering the starting material.
An "ammonium sufobitol" (Tumenol-Ammonium), made from light shale oil of the Messel pit, was sold until 2000 in Germany.
The Chinese material labelled as "Ichthyol" are actually an ersatz product made from vegetable oil.

BENEFITS OF ICHTHYOL:
*Effective for Boils and Abscesses.
One of the significant benefits of Ichthyol is its efficacy in the treatment of boils and abscesses.
A study published in the "Journal of Drugs in Dermatology" in 2011 found that the use of Ichthyol-based ointment was effective in resolving uncomplicated skin abscesses.
Ichthyol helped reduce pain and promoted the drainage of pus.

*Anti-Inflammatory and Soothing.
Ichthyol's anti-inflammatory properties make it a valuable option for soothing skin irritations, particularly in conditions like eczema and psoriasis.
Ichthyol can provide relief from itching and discomfort, improving the quality of life for individuals with these conditions.

*Versatile and Accessible.
Ichthyol is readily available over the counter in various formulations, such as ointments and creams.
Its versatility makes Ichthyol accessible to individuals seeking relief from minor skin issues without the need for a prescription.

PROPERTIES OF ICHTHYOL:
*Chemical Composition.
Ichthyol, also known as ammonium bituminosulfonate, is a viscous, dark brown to black ointment with a distinctive, strong odor.

Its chemical composition primarily consists of sulfur-rich shale, which gives Ichthyol its characteristic color and odor.
Ichthyol contains various organic compounds, such as hydrocarbons and sulfonated derivatives, which contribute to its therapeutic properties.

*Anti-Inflammatory and Antimicrobial Properties.
One of the key properties of Ichthyol is its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial activity.
Ichthyol has been used traditionally to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and treat skin infections.

The exact mechanisms of these actions are not fully understood, but Ichthyol is believed to inhibit certain enzymes and modulate the immune response, which helps alleviate skin conditions.

*Drawing Agent.
Ichthyol is often referred to as a "drawing agent" because of its ability to promote the drainage of pus from abscesses and boils.
It is thought to work by softening the skin and promoting the flow of fluids, which can aid in the resolution of localized infections and inflammation.

HOW TO USE ICHTHYOL:
Apply externally to the skin. 
Usually, 1-2 times a day apply the gel on the affected areas of the skin.
The product should not be used by persons allergic to Ichthyol.
Possible adverse effects include skin irritation. 
The ointment should not be applied to damaged skin.
Do not use ointment on children.

PHYSICAL and CHEMICAL PROPERTIES of ICHTHYOL:
CAS Number: 8029-68-3​
EC Number: Not specified in the provided sources​
Appearance: Dense, blackish-brown, viscous liquid with a characteristic bitumen-like odor.​
Density: Approximately 1.04–1.085 at 20°C.​
Boiling Point: Around 100°C at 101.3 kPa.​
Solubility: Miscible with water and glycerol.​
Slightly soluble in ethanol (96%), fatty oils, and liquid paraffin.​
Forms homogeneous mixtures with wool fat and soft paraffin.​
LogP: Approximately -0.4 at 20°C and pH 6–7.5.​
Molecular Formula: C₁₆H₂₀S₄
Molecular Weight: 368.6 g/mol

FIRST AID MEASURES of ICHTHYOL:
-Description of first-aid measures
*General advice:
Show this material safety data sheet to the doctor in attendance.
*If inhaled:
After inhalation: 
Fresh air.
*In case of skin contact: 
Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. 
Rinse skin with
water/ shower.
*In case of eye contact:
After eye contact: 
Rinse out with plenty of water. 
Call in ophthalmologist. 
Remove contact lenses.
*If swallowed:
After swallowing: 
Immediately make victim drink water (two glasses at most). 
Consult a physician.
-Indication of any immediate medical attention and special treatment needed.
No data available

ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES of ICHTHYOL:
-Environmental precautions:
Do not let product enter drains.
-Methods and materials for containment and cleaning up:
Cover drains. 
Collect, bind, and pump off spills. 
Observe possible material restrictions. 
Take up dry. 
Dispose of properly. 
Clean up affected area.

FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES of ICHTHYOL:
-Extinguishing media:
*Suitable extinguishing media:
Carbon dioxide (CO2) 
Foam 
Dry powder
*Unsuitable extinguishing media:
For this substance/mixture no limitations of extinguishing agents are given.
-Further information:
Prevent fire extinguishing water from contaminating surface water or the ground water system.

EXPOSURE CONTROLS/PERSONAL PROTECTION of ICHTHYOL:
-Control parameters:
--Ingredients with workplace control parameters:
-Exposure controls:
--Personal protective equipment:
*Eye/face protection:
Use equipment for eye protection. 
Safety glasses
*Body Protection:
protective clothing
*Respiratory protection:
Recommended Filter type: Filter A 
-Control of environmental exposure:
Do not let product enter drains.

HANDLING and STORAGE of ICHTHYOL:
-Conditions for safe storage, including any incompatibilities:
*Storage conditions:
Tightly closed. 
Dry.

STABILITY and REACTIVITY of ICHTHYOL:
-Chemical stability:
The product is chemically stable under standard ambient conditions (room temperature) .
-Possibility of hazardous reactions:
No data available