Gentian violet

Gentian violet is an antifungal agent. Typically prepared as a weak (eg 1%) solution in water, it painted on skin or gums to treat or prevent fungus infections. Gentian violet does not require a doctor's prescription (in the US), but is not easily found in drug stores. Tampons treated with gentian violet are sometimes used for vaginal applications

Applications

Commonly used for

Tinea; eg Athlete's foot, jock itch, and ringworm

Candida albicans and related infections; eg thrush, yeast infections

Precautions

Gentian violet's worst common side effect is staining skin and cloth, but if used on ulcerations or open wounds it can cause tattooing. It it generally considered safe for use on children and breastfeeding mothers. La Leche League and others have recommended it even for thrush on the nipple.

Popular Culture

In Catch-22, the medics are portrayed as using gentian violet on feet and gums as a universal panacea.