Sources/Uses
Obtained from wood tar by distillation; [Merck Index] Derived from high temperature treatment of beech, other wood , or resin of the creosote bush and contains cresols and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons; Used as a wood preservative and pesticide; Formerly used as a medicine (disinfectant, laxative, and dermatologic agents; [ChemIDplus] Used as a preservative (wood, cordage, timber, and hessian sacks), froth flotation agent, lubricant for die molds, waterproofing agent, and medication (expectorant, antipyretic, styptic, astringent, antiseptic, local anesthetic (dentistry), and disinfectant); Used in veterinary medicine in poultices, anti-bloat mixtures, parasiticides, and deodorants; [HSDB] Wood creosote is derived from the distillation of beechwood tar; it is yellow, transparent, and chemically distinct from coal tar creosote. [ATSDR ToxProfiles]
Comments
A skin, eye, and mucous membrane irritant; Emergency treatment: "Phenol and related agents"; [HSDB] Ingesting herbal remedies containing creosote bush leaves can cause liver and kidney injury. [ATSDR ToxFAQs] A corrosive substance that can cause injury to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract; Ingestion can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, unconsciousness, and heart failure; [Medisca MSDS]