How to Identify Ichthammol Ointment

Ichthammol ointment is a topical anti-inflammatory medication made from sulfuric shale mixed with beeswax or paraffin that is used to treat certain skin conditions, such as boils or bedsores. The ointment, also known as black drawing salve, can be found at a drug store or purchased online. Identifying the right ointment is easy.

Instructions

1. Purchase ichthammol ointment online by logging onto a pharmacy website such as drugsdepot.com or healthwarehouse.com.

2. To purchase the ointment in person, go to a pharmacy or drug store to look for the ointment. It may be located in the skin care or first aid section.

3. Check the ointment tube to see the concentration of ichthammol; it is usually sold as 10 percent for mild treatment and 20 percent for more serious relief. There is no risk in choosing the higher concentration. You will likely not find a concentration higher than 20 percent; if you do, check for FDA approval on the tube. If the product has FDA approval, you may use the product safely.

4. The ointment itself is easily identifiable; it is black and has a strong sulfuric smell.

References

• Ichthammol ointment