Black ointment is a type of drawing salve that contains various herbs, oils, and other natural products. It is used to treat many types of skin irritations, such as burns and boils. The ingredients in this ointment, when used together, are believed to reduce the risk of infection and promote cell growth. This product is only recommended for topical use, as one of its main ingredients, the materials from a plant called comfrey, may be detrimental to health if consumed or used in suppository form.
The most common ailments that may be soothed with black ointment are boils, warts, bee stings, acne, athlete's foot, hemorrhoids, and different types of burns such as sunburn. Some sources suggest that the product may also aid in fighting ulcers, tumors, and skin cancer. There is no standardized recommended dosage for this ointment, as most brands suggest using it as frequently and liberally as needed to soothe skin irritations. The product has not been evaluated by the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Black ointment is often referred to as a drawing salve, also known as a drawing ointment. Drawing salves are generally used for topical detoxification. They pull toxins, debris, and other impurities from wounds, burns, and other ailments of the skin.
Though the ingredients may vary from brand to brand, all types of black ointment contain a mixture of herbs, oils, comfrey, and beeswax. Other ingredients may include red clover blossoms, olive oil, and pine tar. Mullein, a plant sometimes used for herbal tea, is often used in this type of ointment as well.
It is believed that the ingredients in this ointment promote faster healing and stimulate cell growth when used in conjunction with each other. They are promoted for various antibacterial qualities, and may help reduce the risk of infection when applied to an affected area of the skin. Some other benefits include toning and strengthening of skin tissues.
One of the main proponents of black ointment is a plant called comfrey. This plant, which is native to Europe and Asia, has been used as a healing herb since around 400 BC. Since comfrey contains certain alkaloids which may be either fatal or hazardous to health if ingested orally, black ointment is strictly meant for topical use. Additionally, this product, and other products containing comfrey, are not recommended to be used on cuts, unlike some types of drawing salves which do not contain comfrey.