Singapore Med J. 1994 Apr; 35(2): 215-6.

Acute salicylism due to accidental ingestion of a traditional medicine.

Malik AS, Zabidi MH, Noor AR.

Department of Paediatrics, School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan.

Traditional medicine is practised to some degree in all cultures. Many different types of herbal preparations and "oils" are widely used in Malaysia, too. We report a case of acute salicylism due to accidental ingestion of one brand of such oils. Compulsory labelling of traditional drugs with their chemical ingredients is suggested for proper and timely management of such cases.