Salicylic acid

Salicylic acid is a type of phenolic acid and a beta hydroxy acid. This colorless crystalline organic acid is widely used in organic synthesis and functions as a plant hormone. It is derived from the metabolism of salicin. In addition to being an important active metabolite of aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid), which acts in part as a prodrug to salicylic acid, it is probably best known for its use as a key ingredient in topical anti-acne products. The salts and esters of salicylic acid are known as salicylates.

History

Hippocrates wrote in the 5th century BC about a bitter powder extracted from willow bark that could ease aches and pains and reduce fevers. This remedy is also mentioned in texts from ancient Sumer, Lebanon, and Assyria. The Cherokee and other Native Americans used an infusion of the bark for fever and other medicinal purposes for centuries. The medicinal part of the plant is the inner bark and was used as a pain reliever for various conditions.

Uses

Salicylic acid is used in the production of other pharmaceuticals, including 4-aminosalicylic acid, sulfasalazine, and landetimide (via Salethamide).

Safety and toxicity

Salicylic acid has a low acute toxicity, with LD50 of 891 mg/kg body weight. However, ingestion of larger amounts can lead to gastric discomfort, including nausea, vomiting, and tachycardia.

See also

• Aspirin
• Willow
• Phenolic acid
• Beta hydroxy acid

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