1239. Birch Tar Oil, Rectified

Nomenclature

“Essential oil of birch wood”.

Description and references

Obtained from the empyreumatic oil by steam distillation. Constit. Phenol, cresol, xylenol, guaiacol, creosol, pyrocatechol.

Properties

Dark brown liquid. d 0.886-0.950. One ml dissolves in about 3 ml abs alcohol; sol in benzene, chloroform, ether, glacial acetic acid, carbon disulfide, oil turpentine.

Therapeutic Category

Dermatologic.

Therapeutic Category (Veterinary)

Has been used extern. in skin diseases.