Vaseline, also known as petroleum jelly, is a widely used ointment for skin care. It is a mixture of mineral oils and waxes, and it is commonly used to soothe dry or chapped skin, protect minor cuts and burns, and prevent diaper rash. Although Vaseline is safe for external use, some people wonder whether it is safe to eat. In this article, we will explore this question and provide some helpful information.
Firstly, it is important to note that Vaseline is not intended for ingestion. It is a topical ointment that is meant to be applied to the skin. While it is considered non-toxic, ingesting Vaseline can lead to some unwanted effects. The digestive system may not be able to break down the petroleum jelly, which can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Additionally, long-term exposure to inhaled petroleum jelly droplets can cause more serious lung problems. This is a concern for those who work in industries where they are frequently exposed to petroleum jelly fumes, such as in the production or packaging of the product.
However, it is interesting to note that the inventor of Vaseline, Robert Chesebrough, reportedly ate a spoonful of it every day until his death at the age of 96. While this may seem surprising, it is important to remember that Robert Chesebrough was not a doctor or a nutritionist, and his personal habits should not be taken as medical advice.
Vaseline is not intended for ingestion, and while it is considered non-toxic, ingesting it can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. Furthermore, long-term exposure to inhaled petroleum jelly droplets can cause serious lung problems. It is always best to use Vaseline as directed, which is for external use only. If you have any concerns about the use of Vaseline, it is recommended that you speak with your healthcare provider.
Is Vaseline Harmful to Humans?
Petroleum jelly, also known as Vaseline, is a commonly used product for skin moisturizing and protection. It is made from a mixture of mineral oils and waxes, and is considered nontoxic to humans.
Ingestion of small amounts of petroleum jelly is not harmful and is unlikely to cause any serious health problems. However, ingestion of large amounts can result in gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Inhalation of petroleum jelly droplets can cause lung problems, particularly with long-term exposure. This is because the droplets can accumulate in the lungs and cause inflammation, leading to respiratory issues.
It is important to note that petroleum jelly should not be used as a lubricant for condoms as it can weaken the material and increase the risk of breakage.
Petroleum jelly is generally considered nontoxic to humans when used as directed. However, ingestion of large amounts and long-term inhalation can result in health issues. If you have any concerns about the use of petroleum jelly, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional.
The Benefits of Eating Vaseline According to Its Inventor
Robert Chesebrough, the inventor of Vaseline, believed in his product so much that he not only used it on his skin but also ingested it. In fact, he ate a spoonful of it every day until his death at the age of 96. But why did he do this?
Chesebrough was convinced that Vaseline had numerous health benefits and could cure a variety of ailments. He claimed that it could help with digestive issues, improve blood flow, and even cure tuberculosis. While there is no scientific evidence to support these claims, Chesebrough’s belief in the healing properties of Vaseline was unwavering.
In addition to its supposed health benefits, Chesebrough also believed that Vaseline was a pure and natural product. He had discovered the substance while working in the oil fields of Pennsylvania, where he noticed that the workers would use a residue from the oil drilling process to heal their cuts and burns. Chesebrough refined this substance and patented it as Vaseline, boasting that it was a completely natural product.
Despite the lack of scientific evidence and the questionable purity of the product, Chesebrough’s personal conviction in Vaseline was so strong that he ate it every day for decades. His dedication to the product helped to establish Vaseline as a household name and a popular skincare product around the world.
Conclusion
While petroleum jelly is considered nontoxic and has been used for various purposes for over a century, it is not recommended to consume it. Even though the inventor of Vaseline, Robert Chesebrough, consumed small amounts of it daily, it is important to note that he lived during a time when the effects of petroleum jelly on the body were not fully understood. Ingesting petroleum jelly can lead to potential health risks, such as lung problems and digestive issues. Therefore, it is best to use petroleum jelly externally for its intended purposes, such as moisturizing skin and preventing chafing.
