Ichthammol

Ichthammol (CAS 8029-68-3, EC 232-439-0), also known commercially as saurol, lithol, pisciol, and ichden, is a sulfonated shale oil derivative produced by the dry distillation of bituminous schist, followed by sulfonation and neutralisation with ammonia. It carries no assigned E-code and is classified under Salts and Minerals.

In pharmaceutical topical formulations, ichthammol acts as a keratolytic and antimicrobial agent, softening hardened skin tissue while disrupting microbial cell membranes to address localised infections and inflammatory skin conditions. In veterinary and dermatological preparations, it functions as a drawing agent, promoting localised circulation to assist in resolving abscesses and embedded foreign bodies.

Ichthammol is supplied in pharmaceutical-grade form meeting Ph.Eur. monograph specifications and is subject to REACH registration requirements for EU market supply. It is typically packaged in drums or intermediate bulk containers. Buyers should confirm sulfonated shale oil content and ammonium sulphonate specification with the supplier prior to procurement.