Vinegar as an Antidote to Carbolic Acid

Further experiments have recently been made concerning the antidotal influence of vinegar upon phenol (carbolic acid).

If a surface thoroughly burned by the strong acid be washed at once with vinegar, the bleaching and anesthetic influences of the acid are immediately controlled and no scars are formed. In case an excessive quantity has been swallowed, enough water should be added to the vinegar to make it possible to swallow the solution, and once brought in contact with the walls of the stomach, it should, in extreme cases, be removed, and a new quantity introduced by the syphon or stomach pump. Good results are reported in all cases.

It would be well for the physician to educate his patrons concerning the use of this and other simple measures, in cases where the danger is so great that the patient's life may be sacrificed before a physician can be secured.

Ellingwood's Therapeutist, Vol. 2, 1908, was edited by Finley Ellingwood M.D.