Crystal Violet

Crystal Violet is one of the most widely used indicators. It is purple in colour and is also known as Gentian Violet (due to its colour which resembles Gentian flowers), Methyl Violet 10B and Hexamethyl Pararpsaniline Chloride. Crystal Violet is mostly used as a dye, particularly for toner cartridges and paper inks, and also as a dye in ball-point pens. Crystal Violet is not made from either violets or gentian flowers, these names referring simply to the colour of the indicator.

Crystal Violet has antibacterial and antifungal properties and for many years, Crystal Violet was used as a topic antiseptic. Nowadays, however, modern drugs have replaced Chrystal Violet as an antiseptic. However, Crystal Violet is still used in dentistry and to mark the skin before surgery. It is also used for allergy testing. Crystal Violet was used for many years to treat impetigo, a skin condition, although antibiotics are generally used today. For those persons allergic to penicillin, Crystal Violet remains useful in treating impetigo by cleaning the open sores and reducing the spread of infection.

As Crystal Violet is a stain, it is important to wear appropriate protective clothing when working with or handling this substance. Suitable gloves should always be worn, even when handling small quantities of Crystal Violet and it will easily stain the skin.

Crystal Violet should not be ingested as it is classified as Harmful if swallowed and causes irritation to the gastro-intestinal tract. Eye protection should always be worn when handling Crystal Violet as it can cause severe irritation to eyes, resulting in staining of the cornea, conjunctivitis and permanent damage to the eye. Crystal Violet dust should not be inhaled as it can cause damage to the mucous membranes of the nasal passages and upper respiratory tract, affecting respiration and with the ability to cause acute pulmonary odoema.

Crystal Violet should not be flushed to drain as it is very Toxic to aquatic organisms and may cause long-term damage to the environment. Spills should be absorbed with appropriate material and collected before disposal in accordance with government, local authority or environment agency recommendations.

Crystal Violet is light-sensitive and combustible so should be stored away from open flames and sparks and other sources of ignition. It is incompatible with strong oxidizing agents and acids. Containers of Crystal Violet should be kept tightly closed and stored in a cool, well-ventilated area, away from children and animals.