Burow's solution

Burow's solution is a pharmacological preparation made of aluminium acetate dissolved in water. It was invented in the mid-1800s by Karl August Burow, an ophthalmologist.

The preparation has astringent and antibacterial properties and is used to treat a number of skin conditions such as insect bites, rashes caused by poison ivy and poison sumac, swelling, allergies and bruises. Burow's solution is traditionally applied in cold compresses over the affected area.

Burow's solution is available over the counter as a generic preparation. Bayer also manufactures a modified form of the preparation under the commercial name Domeboro.