National Poisons Information Helpline appeals to parents to potassium permanganate away from children
The purple-coloured chemical, more commonly known as Condy's Crystal, can be extremely harmful if ingested.
Picture: Pixabay: DarkoStojanovic
CAPE TOWN - The National Poisons Information Helpline reports that it’s received more than 1,000 potassium permanganate-related calls between 2015 and 2023.
The purple-coloured chemical, more commonly known as Condy's Crystal, can be extremely harmful if ingested.
The National Poisons Information Helpline is appealing to parents, caregivers and guardians to keep this harmful substance out of children's reach.
Director of the Poisons Information Centre, Carine Marks, said that the chemical could cause vomiting, internal bleeding and in serious cases, organ damage, or even death.
"Potassium permanganate, also known as Condy's Crystal, is a dark purple chemical used to treat skin conditions, disinfect wounds and purify water. It's widely used in households and traditional medicines, especially in rural areas, and is easily available over the counter."