Hi all ~ When I came back on-list I promised myself I would not post anything too controversial. However, I have always had a problem using vaseline petroleum jelly on animals and people. Here are the basic facts: Petroleum jellly comes from fuel. When oil was discovered in Pennsylvania in 1859, (Robt. Cheesebrough) found that a colorless film called "rod wax" collected around the pump rods on the oil wells. He saw the oil workers slapping the stuff on cuts and began to manufacture it. It is listed under Fire (acute hazardous/symptoms) as combustible (duh).* It consists of saturated hydrocarbons with carbon numbers mainly higher than 25. Its composition depends on the petroleum source and refining process. Highly refined (white petroleum) is used in pharmacy and cosmetics. Less refined grades (yellow, amber, or brown petroleum) are used industrally and may contain impurities such as carcinogenic polycyclic aromatics. Therefore the European Union applies a risk phrase of R45 (may cause cancer) to this product.* We have been looking at things within our comsumption system that "may" contribute to cancer in our environment and this is certainly one I would not recommend. I know other naturapaths feel the same way. With fuzzies so susceptible to environmental issues why put this in their systems? *Source: International Chemical Safety Cards ICSC: #1440. Warmly ~ Mary L. Conley, ND, Herbalist Conley Farm Organic Herbs Online Classes ~ Private Consultations www.Herbgrow30.com [Posted in FML issue 4480]