The chemical name of Blue Alum is Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate.

Copper sulfate pentahydrate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula CuSO4-5H2O, commonly known as blue alum, bile alum or copper alum. With emetic, expectorant, detoxification, treatment of phlegm congestion, paralysis of the throat, epilepsy, dental chancre, mouth sores, rotting strings wind eye, hemorrhoids efficacy but has certain side effects.

Copper sulfate pentahydrate at room temperature and pressure is very stable, not deliquescent, in the dry air will gradually weathering, heated to 45 ℃ when the loss of two molecules of water of crystallization, 110 ℃ when the loss of four molecules of water of crystallization, called copper sulfate monohydrate, 200 ℃ when the loss of all the water of crystallization into anhydrous material. Can also be under the action of concentrated sulfuric acid to lose five crystal water.

Adverse reaction mechanism

Copper sulfate is the main component of cholecalciferol, which can be poisoned by accidental intake or overdose. Copper sulfate can stimulate the impulses of the afferent nerves to conduct to the vomiting center of the medulla oblongata via the vagus and sympathetic nerves.

Because of repeated violent vomiting, can lead to dehydration, and shock, at the same time damage to the gastric mucosa, and even cause acute gastric perforation. Copper sulfate solution locally has a strong corrosive effect, can make the oral cavity, esophagus, gastrointestinal tract mucosal congestion, edema, ulceration and erosion.

Reference for the above: Baidu Encyclopedia - Blue Alum