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Glycerin (another term – glycerol) is the simplest stable trihydric alcohol (triol). This organic chemical compound from the sugar group has a wide spectrum of activity, which is why it is used by the cosmetic, pharmaceutical, food, chemical and pyrotechnic industries.
Glycerol – properties
Glycerol in its natural state it is a greasy, syrupy and colorless liquid. It is highly hydrophilic and has a sweet aftertaste. It is considered a non-irritating substance. The main source are vegetable and animal fats, which are hydrolyzed to when reacted with alkaline solutions glycerin and soaps. It is also found in some fruits and vegetables. Large amounts glycerol provides the transesterification reaction in the production of biodiesel.
Glycerol – use in nature
Glycerol lowers the freezing point and supercooling of body fluids in animal physiology, increasing tolerance to cold, freezing and staying in the cold. Effectively protects mammalian sperm from freezing. This is used in human and bull sperm banks.
Glycerol – use in industry
Glycerol in cosmetics, it is used for cosmetic products such as soaps, creams, lipsticks and skin moisturizing lotions. In the chemical industry, it is an essential factor in the creation of tanning preparations – strong hygroscopic properties help dry leather – as well as many dyes, brake and cooling fluids for cars and household appliances. It is also a component of e-cigarette refills.
Trinitrate obtained in the process of esterification glycerol it is used for the production of explosives.
The pharmaceutical industry uses glycerol primarily as an auxiliary substance. Commonly found in syrups and suspensions where it stabilizes the consistency. It is also found in eye drops as one of the solvents.
Glycerol solution 85 percent is a remedy for soothing skin irritations. It is prescribed for children and adults glycerol suppositoriesto help with constipation.
Glycerol – side effects
As with other substances, certain side effects may occur with glycerol. This usually occurs as a result of an overdose or side effects caused by the particular containing glycerol, lek. Glycerol side effects such as diarrhea and increased thirst can be attributed. In very rare cases, it causes an increased heartbeat.
Glycerol – precautions
Because glycerol increases the risk of dehydration, people with diabetes may use it orally only after a doctor’s prescription. Contraindications to the independent use of this substance are heart disease and kidney failure.
In the case of glycerol suppositories the rectum can be irritated, but this is extremely rare.
Interestingly, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) entered glycerol on the list of banned substances in 2010. Due to the possibility of increasing plasma volume, it was included in the S5 group (masking agents and diuretics).