Uses for Scarlet Oil

Scarlet oil is a dressing for horses' wounds, cuts, abrasions and scrapes. It is not recommended as a treatment for humans, or on animals intended for food. The active ingredient is PCMX or parachlorometaxylenol. Other ingredients in scarlet oil are: mineral oil, isopropyl alcohol, methyl salicylate, benzyl alcohol, pine oil, eucalyptus oil and Biebrich scarlet red.

  1. Wound Preparation

    • The wound should be thoroughly cleansed before applying the scarlet oil. Any extraneous materials or debris should be carefully removed. Trim hair back from the area making sure that no hair can get into any open cuts or scrapes. Be especially careful to keep hair trimmed back from the edges of any cuts. Shave the hair if necessary. Consult a veterinarian in cases of deep wounds, puncture wounds or serious burns. You should also consult a veterinarian before using scarlet oil to treat infections.

    Application Methods

    • Scarlet oil is usually sprayed on from a distance of 4 to 6 inches. It should be applied freely, one or two times a day. Scarlet oil keeps the surface of the wound moist. This encourages drainage in cases of inflammation or infection.

    Dressings

    • Scarlet oil can be used as an open wound treatment as is frequently done in cases of scrapes and abrasions. Alternately the wound can be dressed after the application of scarlet oil as is frequently done with deeper wounds or when there is evidence of inflammation or infection.

    Further Consideration

    • Scarlet oil is not for use on humans, or on animals intended for human consumption. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Remember, scarlet oil is for animal use only. You should use caution when applying scarlet oil to avoid getting it into any wounds, scrapes or abrasions you may have. Gloves are recommended. Because you should avoid contact with mucous membranes, you should also avoid breathing in scarlet oil; air filters are advised.