Antiseptics

Antiseptics generally kill the growth of microorganisms externally. Antiseptics are distinguished from other substances such as antibiotics which fight and kill bacteria internally. These external killers come from disinfectants which act the same way on non- living things.

Antiseptic history started with a Hungarian doctor who lectured on the “cadaveric material”, now known as germs, to contribute to the deadly disease called child bed fever. Throughout the years, antiseptic invention progressed and written articles contributed to a better understanding of the many treatments we have today. Nowadays, lots of information, description, studies, and related links are available online

How do antiseptics work? Antiseptics kill microorganisms on the surfaces of the skin. Oftentimes, they only weaken the treated microbes preventing the further growth in population. The weaker and slower this growth of the microbes is, the more it becomes susceptible to the defense mechanism of the host. Alcohol, for instance, a chemical used as antiseptic, is used as 30% diluted solution. The diluted solution of the alcohol is more effective in killing microbes as it penetrates deeper into the bacteria. Pure alcohol, however, may only form a crust around the bacteria. Antiseptic iodine is commonly used in surgery because of its property to kill bacteria only within thirty seconds.

The most common application of antiseptics is in the hospitals, in fact, there are lots of products such hospital antiseptic soaps, antiseptic ointment, ear antiseptic, and branded products such as dettol antiseptic which are widely marketed and distributed to different areas worldwide. Industries which manufacture consumer products like food, beverages, and drugs need these antiseptic products as well to ensure the quality of their products. For instance, swab plus antiseptic swabs are a necessity to determine the number of microorganisms present in every equipment need in the manufacturing plants. Simple vinegar antiseptic is a natural antiseptic and it is available in our very own kitchens. The antiseptic effectiveness of vinegar is known by medical scientists but they do not know exactly how the mechanism goes.

Like any other chemicals, the dealing of antiseptics should be taken with precautions. There are toxic antiseptics, especially when they are in their pure form such as phenol, which should be used to treat skin or areas around the mucous membranes of the nose, mouth, and eyes.
In any case, the discovery of antiseptics has made a great contribution to medical science. They have made medical procedures quicker and safer in the industry as well as in our homes.