Creosote << KREE uh soht >> is a heavy, oily liquid made by distilling wood or coal tar. It has a penetrating, smoky smell and is nearly colorless when pure. Creosote as marketed is commonly a brownish color, and is a mixture of creosol and several other substances. Creosote oil taken from beechwood tar has been used in medicine. Creosote obtained by distilling coal tar is one of the most effective wood preservatives. Other uses include disinfectants and solvents. However, creosote is poisonous. In addition, tests have shown that the substance causes cancer in laboratory animals and may cause cancer in human beings. A number of governments have regulated or restricted the use of creosote by consumers and industry. See also Tar.
