Sphagnol

Sphagnol is a phenolic compound historically extracted from sphagnum moss and marketed as an antiseptic preparation in the early 20th century. It represents one of the earliest commercial applications of peat-derived antimicrobial substances.

Historical Significance

Sphagnol was commercially produced and marketed as a wound antiseptic in the early 1900s. During World War I, sphagnum moss was widely used as a wound dressing material — its antimicrobial and absorbent properties made it a practical field medicine resource when cotton supplies were limited. Sphagnol was the purified active principle behind this application.

Modern Context

While sphagnol is no longer commercially produced, the antimicrobial phenolic compounds it represents remain relevant to understanding peat’s biological activity. Modern research on sphagnum-derived phenolics continues to confirm antimicrobial properties, though the active compounds are now better characterized than the crude sphagnol preparation.