What is Creosote?
While most people associated the use of creosote as a treatment used in the preparation of telephone poles, there are a few long-term health applications associated with the compound as well. There are actually a couple of different types of creosote that are used in different applications. Both wood creosote and coal tar creosote have been historically used in tinctures and home remedies for different ailments, although the usage is largely discouraged today.
Wood creosote is a greasy liquid that has a clear to yellow tint. The liquid usually has a burned taste and flavor that is not considered to be appealing. However, wood creosote was used for a number of years as an effective laxative, as well as treatment for coughs associated with a cold. This type of creosote has also been used as a disinfecting agent.
Coal tar creosote tends to have different properties altogether. Distinguished by a color that is amber to black in hue, and is thick in texture. This form of creosote was sometimes used in the treatment of psoriasis. More commonly, coal tar creosote has been applied in animal dips, various types of insecticides, and repellants for animals and birds around camping sites.
Contact with creosote can cause a wide range of health issues. When exposed to low levels of creosote for an extended period of time, it is possible to experience a skin rash that may develop in time into skin cancer. Chimney sweeps were particularly subject to such problems as cancer of the scrotum, owning to the frequent exposure to creosote residue that was found in soot and the coal tar creosote that was used to line many chimneys.
Direct contact with larger amounts of creosote can result in burns and rashes to the skin, as well as cause problems with the eyes. Continues exposure to larger amounts of creosote can also lead to liver and kidney issues. Mental confusion and convulsions are also signs of overexposure to creosote. If the individual is not treated promptly, bouts of unconsciousness and even death can result.
Written by Malcolm Tatum
