Yahoo Lifestyle That Black Salve From 'Apple Cider Vinegar' Is Real—And Extremely Dangerous
Netflix’s new series Apple Cider Vinegar tells the shocking story of a woman named Belle Gibson, who pretends to have cancer and then “cures” it with a healthy lifestyle. But it also draws attention to largely unproven methods of cancer treatment, like black salve.
In the show, fans see Belle's inspiration Milla Blake—who actually has cancer—using something called black salve, which allegedly helps draw out the disease. But, in the show, the ointment actually makes her symptoms worse.
Netflix's show is “true-ish” and based on real stories, making it hard to tell fact from fiction. So, is black salve real and does it actually heal cancer? Here’s what you need to know.
What is black salve?
Black salve is a real concoction that’s been called “dangerous” by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The ointment is considered a holistic treatment and contains corrosive materials that essentially burn the skin away.
Black salve may contain sanguinarine, sanguinaria canadensis, or bloodroot, along with zinc chloride, per the FDA. The FDA also notes that the ingredients in black salve “can destroy the skin and result in permanent disfigurement.”
Research shows that it’s common for people who use black salve to develop skin infections. It can also eat a hole through a person’s skin—the FDA has a freaky photo of person’s nostril that burned away after using black salve.
Which medical conditions has black salve been used to treat?
Research has not found black salve to be a helpful treatment for anything. But it’s been used to try to treat skin cancer, along with other skin-related issues, per the FDA.
Does black salve heal cancer?
No, black salve does not heal cancer. Unfortunately, some people believe that it can, which has caused certain patients to delay or avoid cancer treatment, per the FDA.
At least one person has died from cancer after using black salve instead of following proven cancer therapies, according to the FDA. And 24 people have had bad side effects, including cancer progression and permanent disfigurement.
You probably already know this, but it doesn't hurt to repeat it: If you have skin cancer or any other form of cancer, it's crucial to listen to your doctor's scientifically-based advice on treatment. They should be able to guide you and answer any questions you have about your care going forward.
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