Coal Tar (Was: Cracked Finger Tips)

[Guest guest]

> Isn't coal tar carcinogenic?

>

 

Hello Alobar,

 

From what I understand the FDA has concluded that coal tar is carcinogenic

but OTC preparations containing coal tar are safe for human use. The FDA

concluded, after they rejected a citizens petition back in Feb. 2001 who

sought to have all shampoo containing coal tar restricted to prescriptions

and carry cancer warning labels. The FDA said there has is data to show that

coal tar is carcinogenic when exposed to animals and humans but that the data

does not support therapeutic use of coal tar in OTC products used by humans.

Coal tar used in drug preparations poses no risk of carcinogenicity.

 

Now creosote, a liquid made from coal tar and used in asphalt, some dyes,

wood preservative contains over 200 compounds of which about 80-90% are PAHS

(polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons). Toxicity can arise from contact with the

skin (burns), inhaling the vapors which in some humans can be fatal with

respiratory problems as it will irritate the lungs.

 

There is so much controversy surround this issue that I am not one to seek

for an answer. I wish I was.

 

Sad this would be if it were carcinogenic in OTC products. It works so well

with skin and hair diseases. I think it is important to seek as much

information possible and do what is necessary. IMO I don't feel it's much

worse than the toxins we inhale from the air everyday.

 

Happy Holidays!

 

Kandi