Boric acid is mildly antiseptic.
Calomel should only be used in syphilitic conditions.
Zinc oxide and alum are both astringent.
Scarlet red (5 per cent.) with boric acid (95 per cent.) is indicated for the stimulation of granulations.
Solutions. Among the various solutions used are silver nitrate, in various strengths, zinc and copper sulphate, ichthyol, balsam of Peru, nitric acid, sulphuric acid, trichlorand monochloracetic acid.
Silver nitrate is employed for its astringent action, as are also the copper and zinc sulphates.
Balsam of Peru is used for its stimulating action.
The stronger acids are employed for their escharotic qualities.
“Red wash” (made up from the following formula: zinc sulphate 20 grains, compound tincture of lavender 30 minims, distilled water to make 8 ozs.) has a powerful astringent action and promotes cicatrization, especially when there is a tendency for the granulations to become exuberant.
In the treatment of chilblains, a strong astringent is desirable to constrict the diluted capillaries.