Vaseline

Vaseline is a substance obtained from petroleum or paraffin, which is now of commercial importance. Yellowish, translucent, and crystalline in appearance, it is nearly of the consistency of soft soap, and is almost perfectly tasteless and inodorous. It is soluble in ether, and resists the action of most chemicals. Largely used as a salve or liniment, it is also made the base of various ointments and pomades; and it may be employed inwardly as a remedy in colds, coughs, and hoarseness. It is an excellent lubricant; is serviceable for protecting polished steel or iron from rust; and has the advantage over animal and vegetable fats that it does not become rancid. The name vaseline is copyright and refers only to one make of this article, but it is known in commerce under a host of fancy names, while it appears in the pharmacopœia as Paraffinum molle.