Gentian violet is a solution made from crystal violet and water at a concentration of 1~2%. It is also called crystal violet solution or methyl violet solution. It is a commonly used antiseptic for disinfecting skin and mucous membranes. Because it has strong germicidal properties and is non-irritating, it is widely used in medical care. Gentian violet is used in many ways for people, and it also has some effect on pig diseases.

 

A pig farmer told me that the trick he uses to treat pig diseases is actually related to gentian violet! This is how he uses it:

 

Because gentian violet is inexpensive, it is often used for marking during disease prevention and control. He usually keeps it on the piglet warming box, making it convenient to use for piglets and sows.

 

If a sow develops chest swelling before farrowing, you can apply a little gentian violet to the teats. If there are small wounds on the teats or other areas, apply some there too.

 

If a sow develops a hard lump on her neck after vaccination, you can apply a little to it. After applying it two or three times, the lump will become softer.

 

 

Uses of gentian violet on piglets:

 

After piglets are born, their tails are docked and teeth are clipped, and they are given antibacterial medication to prevent streptococcal infections. However, injuries to piglets’ joints while they are nursing are far more harmful than teeth clipping and tail docking, and can easily lead to streptococcal infections in piglets. If you find that a piglet has been injured, apply gentian violet promptly to prevent further problems.

 

Precautions when using gentian violet in pig farming:

 

Iodine tincture and gentian violet should not be used together because they react with each other. This not only makes them ineffective but also corrodes the pig’s skin.

 

So how can pig farms use gentian violet? Clever uses of gentian violet on pig farms.

 

1, marking

 

Many pig farmers don’t use ear tags, so you can mark them with gentian violet instead. It works quite well.

 

2, for minor external injuries, such as necrobacillosis

 

When there are external injuries on the udder or body, you can apply gentian violet. It not only kills bacteria but is also non-irritating.

 

A. Similar burns and scalds.

 

B. Skin conditions such as eczema and herpes; helps reduce infections such as staphylococcal infections.

 

C. For foot-and-mouth disease that has damaged the hooves, it not only disinfects and kills bacteria but also has an astringent effect.

 

D. For bites and similar injuries, gentian violet is the best miracle remedy.

 

E. It is also quite effective for joint injuries; helps reduce infections such as streptococcal infections.

 

Notes:

 

1, if a wound has appeared and is already infected, do not use it; this will prevent the pus from draining and cause the infection to spread deeper, making the disease more severe.

 

2, do not use iodine tincture together with red solution. Red solution will be discussed later; iodine reacts with red solution, making it ineffective and also corroding the pig’s skin.