salicylic

Salicylic is an adjective used in chemistry and pharmacology to describe compounds related to salicylic acid or its salts. The base compound, salicylic acid, is 2-hydroxybenzoic acid, a phenolic carboxylic acid. It occurs naturally in some plants, notably willow trees (Salix species) and meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), where it can be released as salicylates such as salicin. It can also be synthesized industrially.

Salicylic acid is widely used in dermatology and cosmetics as a keratolytic agent, aiding the shedding of cornified skin cells and treating warts, acne, dandruff, and psoriasis at appropriate concentrations. Derivatives and salts, collectively called salicylates, include acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin), which is used as an analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory medication. Other salicylates serve as pharmaceutical intermediates or preservatives.

In chemistry, the term often appears in the names of compounds that contain the salicylic moiety or are derived from salicylic acid, including esters and ethers. The historical significance lies in the discovery and isolation of salicylic acid from willow bark and the subsequent development of aspirin by acetylation in the late 19th century.

Safety and regulatory notes: Salicylic acid and salicylates can cause skin irritation at high concentrations and may be toxic if ingested in large amounts. Aspirin carries risks of gastrointestinal bleeding, hypersensitivity, and Reyes syndrome in children with viral infections; proper medical guidance is advised for usage and dosing.