Risks of Gentian Violet

Also called crystal violet and Pyoctaninum caeruleum, gentian violet is a dye made from coal tar. Despite its use to potentially fight infections and bacteria, gentian violet poses several risks to patients.

Location

Gentian violet is most dangerous when allowed to enter the bloodstream, such as when taken orally or used to treat broken skin.

Types of Side Effects

Possible side effects of gentian violet include stomach pain, stomachaches, diarrhea, vomiting, mouth ulcers and skin blisters.

Features

In addition to adverse health effects, topical gentian violet has the potential to permanently stain your skin.

Speculation

Despite an article to the contrary published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology by Jack Arbiser, many doctors believe that gentian violet poses a risk for cancer, according to the Physician's Desktop Reference.

Warning

Some patients develop life-threatening allergic reactions to gentian violet, causing shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, skin hives and even anaphylactic shock.

Considerations

If you are pregnant or nursing or have a medical history of porphyria, hypertension or heart disease, avoid taking gentian violet due to its possible side effects.

References

• Physicians Desktop Reference: Gentian Violet
• American Academy of Dertmatology Arbiser Article