kaolin, light

Kaolin is a hydrated aluminum silicate mineral. It occurs naturally as a clay that is prepared for pharmaceutical purposes by washing with water to remove sand and other impurities. Kaolin has traditionally been used internally to control diarrhea. Kaolin has also been used topically as an emollient and drying agent. Specifically, it has been used to dry oozing and weeping poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac lesions. It has also been used as a protectant for the temporary relief of anorectal itching and diaper rash. Kaolin is used in medicine as an activator of intrinsic pathway of coagulation in an aPPT test. — NCATS