A mixture of solid hydrocarbons, obtained by chilling and pressing the higher distillates from petroleum and purifying the solid press-cake so obtained.

It is practically insoluble in water or in alcohol.

Action and Uses: Paraffin is used in surgery for prosthetic purposes. It is injected into the tissue to fill the place of parts which have been destroyed by trauma or pathologic processes. When used for this purpose, the melting-point of the product is important. A preparation melting at from 41 to 45 C. (105.8 to 113 F.) is most suitable. Its use for this purpose is not without danger