The coal tar treatment thread

[D Foster]

Coal tar is a by product from the production of "Coke (fuel)" discovered in 1665 and first used for medical purposes in the 1800s.

The exact mechanism of action is unknown. It is a complex mixture of phenols, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and heterocyclic compounds. It demonstrates antifungal, anti-inflammatory, anti-itch, and antiparasitic properties. It is a keratolytic agent, which reduces the growth rate of skin cells and softens the skin's keratin.

It is on the World Health Organization's List of essential medicines and is mostly used to treat dandruff, psoriasis and head lice.

Side effects include skin irritation, sun sensitivity, allergic reactions, and skin discoloration. And as already mentioned it can be flammable.

It can also be used to seal roads (Tarmac) (Sealcoat). To fire a boiler, to manufacture paints, synthetic dyes, and photographic materials. It was also distilled to make creosote.

That was fun.

Thanks Fred you beat me to it, just not had time to look into it.