Black salves were used by Native Americans as a medicinal tincture to help alleviate certain skin ailments. Made of mixtures of several herbs, black salves are sometimes marketed today as an alternative remedy for skin cancer.
Characteristics
Black salves contain combinations of corrosive herbs that are thought to "draw out" infection or cancer from the skin or underlying tissues. Bloodroot, chickweed, myrrh and marshmallow root are all common ingredients in black salves. Zinc chloride is also a common ingredient in most black salves.
Mechanism
Black salves are corrosive agents that essentially "burn" the tissue on which they are applied. Also known as escharotics, black salves often produce crusty scabs called eschars on the skin. These scabs are similar to those found on the skin of patients who have suffered burns from heat or chemicals.
Marketing
Black salves are widely available online. They may be purchased from dozens of websites claiming that the salves "naturally" cure cancers, skin tags or moles. In the United States, black salves are banned from store shelves because they have proved ineffective against the ailments for which they are marketed. They are often referred to as quack medicine.
Warning
Black salves can kill healthy tissue as well as diseased tissue. Use of black salves can cause irreparable scarring. Studies show mixed results with black salves. If you use one, do so with great caution and follow up with a doctor.
Synonyms
Black salves are also commonly referred to as black ointments, drawing salves or escharotics. These products are intended for the same use as black salves and should be regarded with the same caution.
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