Formulations intended for topical application and aiming to remove skin lesions or growths can be created using various ingredients. These mixtures typically involve caustic substances designed to destroy tissue. An example includes a concoction incorporating bloodroot, zinc chloride, and sometimes other components such as chaparral or galangal root.
Historically, such preparations have been used as alternative treatments for skin conditions, including skin cancer. Proponents have asserted its ability to selectively eliminate diseased tissue while leaving healthy tissue intact. However, the scientific community largely cautions against its use due to a lack of rigorous clinical trials proving its effectiveness and concerns about potential adverse effects, such as scarring, disfigurement, and systemic toxicity.
