Ammonium bituminosulfonate

Ammonium bituminosulfonate or ammonium bituminosulphonate (synonyms of ichthammol, ichthyol) is a product of natural origin obtained in the first step by dry distillation of sulfur-rich oil shale (bituminous schists). By sulfonation of the resulting oil (or purified fractions thereof) and subsequent neutralization with ammonia, Ichthammol results as a viscous, water-soluble substance with a strong characteristic odor.

History

The substance was first obtained in 1882 by the German physician Paul Gerson Unna, who used a goethite-containing ore (bog iron ore) from the Eiffel region. The ore was treated with sulfuric acid, the resulting product distilled, and the distillate washed with potassium hydroxide. The product was named ichthyol, reflecting its origin from fossil fish deposits.

Pharmacology

Ammonium bituminosulfonate has anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, and fungicidal properties. It is used in medicine in the treatment of various skin diseases, such as eczema, psoriasis, acne, and furunculosis. The substance is often used in 10% or 20% concentrate ointment, less frequently in the form of a solution for compresses, in soap or in bath additives.

Side Effects

Possible side effects include local skin reactions (such as redness, itching, burning), allergic reactions, and discoloration of the skin at the site of application.

See Also

• Ichthyol
• Sulfur
• Paul Gerson Unna
• Pharmacology