Alum in Pharmaceutical Preparations: Between Past and Present

• Publish Date: 27 - January - 2019

Research Abstract:

Alum is considered one of the natural mineral saline stones. Scientifically, the term refers to a group of double sulfate salt compounds, the most prominent of which is aluminum potassium sulfate. This research aims to study the evolution of alum applications across various pharmaceutical dosage forms for both medicinal and cosmetic preparations up to the present day, while highlighting its medical indications and potential side effects. A study of various formulations and mixtures found in historical manuscripts reveals that alum was traditionally used as a deodorant to eliminate unpleasant odors and as a hemostatic agent to stop bleeding—applications that remains prevalent today. Its use has also expanded into modern fields, such as in the development of vaccines. Furthermore, contemporary compounded formulas have taken diverse pharmaceutical forms, linking various applications to the most distinctive indications of alum, namely its role as an antibacterial, astringent, and styptic agent. While recent studies have focused on certain side effects associated with the pharmaceutical use of alum due to the potential toxicity of aluminum ions, these investigations have not confirmed any risks regarding the topical application of natural alum to intact skin.

Publishers:

Mais Kataya