What Are the Benefits of Sulphur Tar Salve?

Sulphur tar salves have been used in folk medicine for centuries and are widely available at natural health food stores and on the Internet. They also can be made at home. While rumored to treat a variety of conditions, they are most effective at treating skin irritations including eczema, rosacea and a variety of infections.

Eczema

• According to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, on-going dryness, redness and itchiness are symptoms of eczema. Sometimes infections also take hold of the irritated skin. Tar-based salves have the most benefits following a warm bath or shower because they help hold water in the skin to combat dryness. The antibiotic and anti-inflammatory qualities of sulphur also help combat irritation and infection.

Rosacea

• Rosacea is characterized by red skin, pimples and broken capillaries which can swell and harden over time, reports the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. According to a 2004 edition of the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, sulphur contains keratolytic properties which result in the breakdown of certain skin cells and promote the peeling of excess skin. This is beneficial to rosacea sufferers who have hardened skin built up, especially around the nose. According to Drugs.com, both sulphur and certain types of tar have anti-inflammatory properties which help reduce the redness and flushing associated with rosacea.

Infections

• Infections happen when bacteria, fungi or other substances grow out of control within a person's body. Thanks to its antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory properties, sulphur tar salve is effective at treating several types of common infections. These include acne, which occurs when bacteria grows out of control within blocked pores and hair follicles. Ringworm and athlete's foot are two common fungal infections treated by sulphur tar salves.