LIQUID PARAFFIN I.P.

Primary Applications

1. Medicinal Use (Laxative)⁵

Liquid paraffin is used as a lubricant laxative.⁶ Unlike stimulant laxatives, it does not cause bowel contractions.⁷ Instead:

• It coats the intestinal walls and the stool with a waterproof film.⁸

   

• This keeps moisture in the stool, softening it and allowing for easier passage.⁹

   

• It is often used to treat constipation, hemorrhoids, or post-operative bowel issues.¹⁰

   

2. Cosmetics and Skincare (Emollient)¹¹

In the beauty industry, it is a staple ingredient in lotions, creams, and baby oils.¹²

• Occlusive Barrier: It forms a protective layer on the skin’s surface, preventing transepidermal water loss (TEWL).¹³

   

• Non-Comedogenic: Highly refined (pharmaceutical grade) liquid paraffin does not clog pores.

• Cleansing: It is effectively used in makeup removers to dissolve oil-based products.¹⁴

   

3. Food Industry

• Release Agent: Used to prevent dough from sticking to troughs and pans in commercial bakeries.¹⁵

   

• Coating: Applied to fruits and vegetables to reduce moisture loss and improve appearance.¹⁶

   

4. Industrial & Household

• Lubricant: Used for delicate machinery, especially in food processing or textile manufacturing where a non-toxic lubricant is required.¹⁷

   

• Wood/Leather Care: Used to treat and preserve wooden cutting boards and leather goods.¹⁸

  Safety and Precautions

While generally considered safe, there are important caveats for its use:

• Aspiration Risk: If accidentally inhaled into the lungs (aspiration), it can cause lipoid pneumonia, a serious lung condition.¹⁹ For this reason, it is rarely given to infants or patients with swallowing difficulties.²⁰

   

• Vitamin Absorption: Long-term oral use can interfere with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins (²¹$A$, ²²$D$, ²³$E$, and ²⁴$K$).²⁵

   

• Grade Matters: Only BP/USP (Pharmacopeia) or Food Grade paraffin should be used for medicinal or skin applications. Industrial-grade oils may contain impurities.

Would you like me to compare the specific differences between Light and Heavy liquid paraffin grades for a particular use case?