Try Grokking “Oil of Icthycanth.” In recent times I don’t see references to it anymore. That was the name of the active ingredient in my Gramma’s mix. But there’s over a century difference between her original formula and what’s available commercially now even tho it has the same “stink.” Not gross but a smell you won’t forget.
The “canth” part of the name implies an extract from a sea shell as opposed to an oil shale derivative. And Gramma had to stir up her own, about a pint at a time. Warm up the beeswax then stir in the rest. Smelled up the house when she was “cooking.” My Mom always went to the druggist to round up the makin’s when Gramma needed a batch. I always wondered why he didn’t mix it up for her but I guessed he didn’t like the smell of it either?
As for applications I’ve used my Gramma’s stuff in some odd places. Recently had a neighbor with a really sore toe nail. Trimming the nail wasn’t enough and the toe doctor couldn’t fix it. I put on a patch of Granny’s and overnight it pulled a BB-sized chunk out from under it. Been fine ever since. Neighbor lady had fallen and had a big bump on her back bone. Sore as heck and wouldn’t heal. I put a patch of Granny’s on it for two days. It pulled a wad of pus out of it and it cleared up over a couple weeks. These things have happened a bunch of times over the last half century , or so, and I always have to remind myself to consider Granny’s as a possible fix.
I still have about half of Gramma’s last batch so I’m hoping it lasts at least as long as I do. “cause store-bought just ain’t as good.
Weird....I entered Oil of Icthycanth and got this response:
Oil of Icthycanth
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Response 1
It seems there might be a typo in your query, as “Icthycanth” does not directly match any known substance or term in my knowledge base or the provided search results. The closest match based on phonetic similarity and context is likely allyl isothiocyanate, a compound found in mustard oil, or possibly another essential oil like oregano oil, given the reference to “oil” in your query. Since the search results focus heavily on oils like oregano oil and allyl isothiocyanate, I’ll provide information based on the assumption that you meant allyl isothiocyanate or a related oil. If you meant something else, please clarify, and I’ll tailor the response accordingly.
Allyl Isothiocyanate (Mustard Oil)
Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) is a naturally occurring compound found in cruciferous vegetables like mustard, radish, horseradish, and wasabi. It’s a colorless oil responsible for their pungent taste and has several notable properties:
Chemical Properties: AITC has the formula C4H5NS, a molar mass of 99.15 g/mol, and is slightly soluble in water but more soluble in organic solvents. It’s produced commercially by reacting allyl chloride with potassium thiocyanate or through dry distillation of mustard seeds.
Biological Functions: In plants, AITC acts as a defense mechanism against herbivores, released when seeds are broken, triggering the enzyme myrosinase to convert sinigrin (a glucosinolate) into AITC. This repels animals due to its pungency and lachrymatory (tear-inducing) effects, mediated by TRPA1 and TRPV1 ion channels.
Health Benefits:
Antimicrobial: AITC has fungicidal, bactericidal, and nematicidal properties, making it useful in agriculture as an insecticide, anti-mold agent, and crop protectant. It’s also used as an antimicrobial in food packaging to extend shelf life.
Cancer Prevention: In vitro and animal studies suggest AITC exhibits cancer chemopreventive properties, potentially inhibiting cancer cell growth, though human studies are lacking.
Digestive Health: Research indicates AITC may help with stomach lesions caused by Helicobacter pylori in animal models.
Uses:
As a flavoring agent in foods due to its pungent taste.
In fire alarms for the deaf, leveraging its strong odor.
As a natural repellent for insects like fire ants.
Safety Concerns: AITC has an LD50 of 151 mg/kg and is a lachrymator, causing eye irritation similar to tear gas. It can be toxic in high doses and should be handled cautiously.
Possible Misinterpretation: Oregano Oil
If you meant an oil related to health benefits (as the search results heavily reference oregano oil), here’s a brief overview in case this was the intended subject:
Oregano Oil: Derived from Origanum vulgare, oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol, compounds with antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. It’s used for infections, digestive issues, and inflammation.
Key Benefits:
Fights bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli.
Treats fungal infections like Candida and athlete’s foot.
Supports digestive health, potentially alleviating SIBO and heartburn.
May reduce inflammation and support immune health.
Safety: Oregano oil is potent and can cause skin irritation or toxicity if overused. It’s not safe for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, and high doses may interact with medications like blood thinners.
Clarification Needed
Since “Icthycanth” isn’t a recognized term, could you confirm if you meant allyl isothiocyanate, oregano oil, or another specific oil or compound? Alternatively, if you’re referring to a niche or misspelled term, please provide additional context (e.g., its use, source, or effects). I can also search for real-time information or analyze specific sources if needed. Let me know how to proceed!
I prefer this response
Response 2
I believe you meant “Oil of Ichthyol” or perhaps “Ichthammol,” as “Icthycanth” seems to be a misspelling, and no direct references to it exist in the provided context or common knowledge. Ichthammol, also known as ammonium bituminosulfonate or “black ointment,” is a medication derived from sulfur-rich oil shale (bituminous schists). It’s used topically to treat skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis, and minor infections due to its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. It’s typically applied as an ointment with 10% or 20% concentration.
If you meant something else by “Icthycanth,” could you clarify or provide more context? For example, are you referring to a specific essential oil, a fictional substance, or something else?
Disclaimer: Grok is not a doctor; please consult one. Don’t share information that can identify you.
I prefer this response
more on oregano oil
essential oil benefits