Abstract: A composition and method of arresting the flow of blood and other protein containing body fluids flowing from an open wound and for promoting wound healing. In the method, a substantially anhydrous compound of a salt ferrate is provided for a unique use which will hydrate in the presence of blood and body fluid to produce Fe+++ thereby promoting clotting when applied to the wound for a time sufficient to arrest substantial further blood and other body fluid flow from the wound. The compound is formed of a salt taken from the group consisting of H, Li, Na, K, Rb, Cs and Fr. However, to decrease or eliminate stinging sensation, the compound may be formed having a salt taken from the group consisting of Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba, Ra, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ga, Ge, Zr, Nb, Mo, Tc, Ru, Rh, Pd, Ag, Cd, In, Sn, Hf, Ta, W, Re, Os, Ir, Pt, Au, Hg, Tl, Pb, Bi, Al, As, NH4 and N(C4H9)4.