Wood-tar oil is a dark, viscous liquid obtained from the destructive distillation of wood. It has been used for centuries as a traditional medicine and for various industrial purposes such as in the production of roofing tiles, varnishes, and paints. Some common synonyms for wood-tar oil include wood creosote, oil of tar, tar oil, wood tar, and wood vinegar. Similarly, creosote oil, a byproduct of coal-tar distillation, is often used interchangeably with wood-tar oil. The oil has a smoky, woody aroma and is known for its antiseptic and disinfectant properties. Today, wood-tar oil is used in the manufacturing of soap, insecticides, and pharmaceuticals.