Gentian violet is not a flower, nor is it a color. This product is a chemical available as a non-prescription anti-fungal treatment, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Uses
As a topical antiseptic dye, Gentian Violet can be used to treat ringworm, athlete's foot, and small cuts and scrapes. The chemical has been used as a fungicide in animal feed as well.
Side Effects
Use of this product may cause skin discoloration, according to the Mayo Clinic.
FDA Action
In 1991, the Food and Drug Administration suspended an interim policy on the use of Gentian Violet in animal feed, citing studies at the National Center for Toxicological Research, which determined that Gentian Violet "causes cancer in test animals."
Other names
Gentian Violet is also known as Crystal Violet, Basic Violet 3, Brilliant Violet 5B, Gentiaverm and Methylrosanline Chloride, according to the Occupational Health and Safety Administration.
Trivia
Gentian Violet was referenced in Joseph Heller's Catch 22, published in 1961. In the satirical novel, medical personnel gave Gentian Violet to soldiers as a remedy to cure disease.
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